From Accounting to Fashion: Valerie Warren’s Leap with Mabel’s Landing

In this episode of Retail Retold, host Chris welcomes Valerie Warren, the dynamic founder and owner of Mabel's Landing, a women's clothing store in Williamsville, NY.

Valerie shares her inspiring journey of stepping into entrepreneurship from over 30 years in accounting following the closure of a beloved local store, Mabel Danahy’s. She talks about her transition from accounting to retail, the process of setting up her store, and the challenges and successes she encountered along the way. Valerie discusses the importance of location, her selective inventory approach, and how she maintains a personal touch through unique offerings like gift wrapping and in-house alterations.

She highlights the value of having a supportive team and the vital role of vendor relationships in her business success. Listeners also get a glimpse of Valerie's love for the local community, her stance on shopping local, and her thoughts on possibly expanding Mabel's Landing in the future.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:23 Valerie's Background and Journey to Retail

01:28 Transition from Accounting to Retail

03:18 The Legacy of Mabel Danahy's

04:48 Starting Mabel's Landing

05:32 Building Relationships with Vendors

06:38 Choosing the Right Location

11:17 Challenges and Surprises in Retail

13:22 Customer Experience and Unique Offerings

18:44 Future Plans and Final Thoughts

20:14 Fun Questions and Conclusion