Today’s Notable Young Entrepreneur is Kelly McDowell, Director of Operations for Toronto’s CLEMENTINE’S luxury resale shop. We caught up with her to find out what inspired her career and where she sees herself in five years…
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Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
I am the Director of Operations at CLEMENTINE’S. Christina McDowell (my mother) and I recently opened CLEMENTINE’S, a leading luxury resale shop in Summerhill. We offer contemporary and classic “like-new” designer pieces. I manage the traditional “business” side of our shop, oversee accounting and inventory processes, and work directly with all of our vendors. I also work in the shop day-to-day, meeting with customers.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
I saw the chance for a unique opportunity to use my business management background in an exciting way. I was able to start a business that offers both products and services in the consignment business, a concept that had yet to be done. I have always been surrounded by fashion, so it was a natural evolution for me.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
The best part of what I get to do day-to-day is learning from the new experiences and challenges that are being thrown at us. Not to mention, spending time with Christina and our dog, Bear, in the shop. I also love getting to know our clients, hearing their stories and learning about their personal style. The most challenging part of my job is not wanting to purchase all of the amazing pieces that come through our doors before we have a chance to put them out on the floor.
What is one sign that you’ve seen over the years to suggest that your work/life balance is off?
Although this is typically a big concern for entrepreneurs, it seems that we have a healthy balance. We knew that starting a business would not be easy, but we make sure to still have time for life. Of course, since I love what I do, it rarely feels like work.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
With the growth and development of CLEMENTINE’S I see myself running a new location… perhaps for men! We get asked a lot by men why we don’t have pieces for them, and there seems to be a gap in the marketplace for this.
What is one major challenge that you’ve had to overcome in your career? How did you overcome it?
Learning to separate family and business dynamics can be a challenge; my mom and I are so close that sometimes the lines get blurred. This is something that we work on overcoming everyday as we continue to learn from each other and respect each other in a professional capacity.
What does success look like to you? Does Money = Happiness?
Money on its own is not the be-all and end-all, but I would be lying if I said it was not important to me. I would define success as the opportunity to do something I love, and successful as being able to live comfortably with freedom and flexibility.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
Nothing beats opening our doors. I am so proud of what we have achieved in such a short time!
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Take all the advice you can get; do your research thoroughly, but trust your intuition.
Where is your favourite place to wine/ dine in your city and why?
My boyfriend and I are fortunate enough to live close to so many great restaurants. Two of our favourite spots for a quick neighbourhood bite are Bar Isabel and Enoteca Sociale. I can’t forget Terroni, especially the Summerhill location, where my mom and I had many meals while preparing to open CLEMENTINE’S.
When you’re not working how do you love to spend your “Me” time?
Seeing family and friends, and taking any chance my boyfriend and I can get to walk, shop and have coffee together.
Where is your favourite place to travel? Why?
Italy for the food.
If you had to choose a theme song, what would it be?
Anything from The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill.
If you weren’t doing what you’re doing, what would you be doing?
I would be opening a coffee shop with my best friend. In another life, maybe an architect.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
CLEMENTINE’S is supporting the YWCA through monetary and clothing donations. My sister-in-law works for the YWCA, so it is very close to our family. We all just went to support her huge event, The Women of Distinction.
What to you is notable?
Being self-aware. Being a good person. Being happy.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
iPhone. But I would use a flip phone if it had Instagram.
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