Episode #228: How To Maximize Your Market Experience with Amy Harper, Vice President of Marketing, Apparel & Accessories at DMC

Hey.

Hey.

It's episode 228 with my dear friend Amy Harper from Dallas Market Center. Let's talk about your business strategy and the juicy details of what actually works from mainstream fashion to fashion on Main street and the entire ecosystem behind it. How do we scale your company and do it with the balance and the happiness that we all seek? Let's hear from those insiders, experts and strategists that actually make it happen. I'm your host, Ashley Alderson from the Boutique Hub, and I can't wait to chat.

Okay.

I am about to let you in on a total girl conversation where we may get off track. We may just think that we're having a girl conversation and we forget that there's a podcast recording, but nevertheless, it's going to be a lot of fun. You know, there's people that you come across in life and in business and that you do business with that you just truly enjoy as a genuine friendship. And my relationship with Amy Harper is certainly that at Dallas Market center, you're.

Going to hear a little bit of the story.

But Amy and her team were some of the very first to first know about the Boutique Hub and really believe in our mission at the Boutique Hub, which then allowed us to host our very first boutique Summit at Dallas Market Center. So ever since we first met, we became fast friends, had a lot in common, and we've had just a ball being able to work together and to serve our industry. And I just really appreciate the view that Amy and that everyone at Dallas Market center has taken on what's happening in boutique retail. They're super progressive about offering opportunities for boutique retailers, providing education and of course, collaborating with the Boutique Hub. So today we're going to do a couple of things that I'm excited to share with you. Whether you are new to attending a market or you're an old vet, we are going to cover some tips. So I want to give you today five key takeaways that you'll also find in the show. Notes on how you can better maximize your time at Market. We're going to talk about how market plays a role in what I consider to be omnichannel wholesale today, where a lot of retailers that we work with are both going to market. They're maybe going to la, they're buying online. Wholesale is really this all encompassing omnichannel experience. But specifically the question is where does the role of wholesale markets play into that omnichannel experience? And where do we feel like that's going to go into the future. We'll talk about that as well. And then finally, what is new and what's happening at Dallas Market Center? For those of you that maybe are more involved in the Western side of the retail and wholesale industry, there's been a lot of talk about Dallas Market center and its opportunity that it will have in January of 2021 to host the WESA market, which has been in Denver for the last many, many years. So we're going to talk a little bit about the changing tide with WESA and that Western market moving to Dallas, but also what everyone, western or not, can expect at the upcoming October Dallas Market. We'll specifically talk about trends that you're going to see there, new opportunities for education that you're going to see there, and what types of vendors you're going to see in Dallas. So we've got lots to cover. Plus, again, a lot of girl talk because we had a great time on this episode. So guys, I hope you enjoy it. Please do DM me on Instagram if you guys have any questions at all, BoutiqueHubBusiness or J. Alderson, or if you want to reach out to Dallas Market center as well, I know they're happy to answer your questions. Just in time for this podcast, we also decided it would be fun to.

Do a little giveaway.

So for those of you that are listening, make sure you check out the show notes because again, our five tips for attending apparel markets are inside, but also the link to enter our giveaway, which is going to include travel and accommodations for one of you, actually I think one of you and a guest to attend Dallas Market center and the market of your choice. So be sure to enter that giveaway. It's only open for, I think, a week after this podcast airs, so it's going to go pretty quickly. Check it out on social as well. But again, if you've got any questions about attending markets, I'm all ears. I would love to help you guys. So with that, I hope you enjoy the episode and meeting my friend Amy.

Hey guys, I think you're gonna get in on some girl talk today. We're gonna talk about going to market, we're gonna talk about Dallas market, but I'm so excited to introduce you to one of my favorite people in this entire industry. I'm not even joking. When you meet Amy Harper in person, you are going to love her to pieces as much as I do. So you guys please help me welcome to the show today Amy Harper, who is the V development for Apparel and Accessories and International Business at Dallas Market Center. Hello, Amy.

Hey, Ashley. Hey, everybody. It is so great to be here. I don't know if you all can tell, but I'm just grinning ear to ear. I am. My cheeks are hurting.

Someone said to me the other day when we were in Dallas, they were like, you always talk about Amy Harper. You know, how do I find her? I'm like, number one, she's the only one on the team with curly hair. Number two, she will have the biggest smile out of anybody you see at Dallas Market Zone.

Thank you. I love that. Yes. I am the only one with curly hair. I didn't even think about that.

Yes.

And I don't know. I'm just. I feel like. I hate to say it. I don't want to be that person, but I feel like I always am happy and I'm in a good mood because I love the business and I love what I do. So I'm always, you know, ready to roll. And I love meeting new people. So I hope that if you do see me, please come and talk to me. Stop me.

It's so refreshing, because every time we go there, I feel like I have always said this, and this is no, you know, nothing new to you, but I always feel like it's old home week because we go to market, we talk about business. You know, we work with our vendors, we work with the boutiques, but then, you know, we go have margaritas, and we have a great time because it is like family there.

Well, you know what? And we consider you guys family. It really is. I mean, that's just how we do. That's how we do things here. And maybe that's why I'm always smiling, you know, working with people that, you know, that make you feel comfortable and make you feel welcome and everything. I think that's. That's, like. That's a key. I mean, it's just like your entire team, you know, at Boutique Hub. I mean, every single person, it's. It's. They're like family. And. Yeah, we love having you guys here.

Yeah. Life's too short to do business any other way. Right. Than to. Not absolutely.

Couldn't agree more.

Yes.

So a couple things I want to talk about today. I know we've got lots to talk about just in terms of what's new at dmc, but we do get a lot of. I don't want to say that this show is going to be for just new boutique owners, but I do want to start there. If someone's never been to a market before, talk to me about why should someone go to market versus just ordering wholesale product online?

Oh, that's a great question. And I think it's so important for a business owner that is in this industry to come to a market and first and foremost you have to learn. I think you, I don't know, I'm a hands on person, I'm a visual person and it's great to see things at home and in the comfort of your home on the computer. But it's another when you're walking around and you feed off of the energy and you get excited and it kind of refreshes you and gives you inspiration on seeing product that you're not going to see online at home. You're going to see product that maybe you haven't, it haven't been exposed to ever. And it's going to trigger you to think, you know what? I think I'm going to go into that a little bit of that niche, whether it's shoes. Maybe you've, you know, you have worked and thought about carrying shoes with your business and it is just really, you know, you just haven't gone for it because it can be an investment. But when you get to market and you see them, all the brands and all of the designs and everything, that's where that excitement takes over. And that's when you go back, I think to your open to buy and say, you know what, I can manage this and I'm going to be able to sell it. For those that are brick and mortar, that have never been to a market, oh my gosh, you're missing out. And the reason why I think is because the excitement that you have at market, like from walking around and seeing your peers be, you know, doing business and excelling, you know, in this world, you take that energy back to your staff in the store and, and I think that, you know, that's a great way to get your team inspired and share with them photographs and you know, and your experiences and videos of the fashion show and all of that. I think, you know, I don't know, I feel like in this day and age, like we have to, you know, work really hard to inspire each other and that support system is really found at market.

Yeah, I really like that. I think, you know, if you think about this industry as a whole, there's so many ways that you can conduct business whether it's online or you know, going somewhere like LA or working directly with a vendor. But what you said I think matters in the sense of community and that inspiration you're Seeing all everything's merchandise right there for you. Plus you're bringing such a diverse group of vendors under one roof that may not exist in small pockets elsewhere. So can you kind of COVID for me what categories, like what verticals are all covered inside of Dallas Market Center?

Everything. And I love saying that. I mean, we provide brands for our buyers across all industries, which is, to me, you know, it's really fantastic. Many people don't realize that Dallas Market center is all encompassing across our campus. So we cater to buyers of apparel, and that means men's, women's, children's home and design. So interior decorators and designers, furniture stores, you know, that sort of like, you know, niche. We also have an entire lighting industry for residential and commercial. And of course, we, you know, we cannot forget the gift industry that is so huge and awesome, you know, across the world. And then, you know, the one that is a favorite in my eyes that we're moving into, and that is Western. So I think those are really. We have really focused on our like, five, you know, industry branches in the wholesale business. And that's, you know, it's apparel, home and design, western lighting and gift. And I think that's pretty cool. I think it gives buyers an opportunity to really see, you know, what's out there. And that's another reason why it's good to come to market.

Definitely. And all different price points too. I think it's so easy, like you said, to get inspired by even what different industries or genres are doing. And you can bring a little bit different twist back to your store.

Absolutely. I think that's very important because, you know, you may see furniture that would be wonderful in your store, and you get inspired by it. And you walk into the showroom here at the Market center, and they're like, oh, yeah, this is what you can do. You can customize it, you can do this. And financially, they have a higher price point and then they have a more moderate price point. And they, you know, they work with the business owners. And I think that's really important.

Again, if someone's new, help them understand what is the difference between what they might see on a temporary floor versus in a showroom.

Okay, so on our temporary floors, you will see booths that are hard wall built, so there's just no door. And you can walk around. It's just like a trade show. And you can walk around and you will see a variety of brands and goods that may interest you. And it's wonderful. You can walk right into the booth and check things out. You can check out, you know, you can touch the product, you can check out prices. A rep in the booth will come up to you and ask to assist or answer any questions you may have. But they're not going to, you know, just jump on you. You know, I think they want you to be feel comfortable in their space. And then in a permanent showroom, what you're going to walk into, especially here in Dallas, is a multi line rep showroom. And for those of you that are, you know, not familiar with that term, a permanent showroom here in our building is, let's say has about 30 lines in it or it could have 15 lines in it. And there's a person that you know that they own their business and it's the showroom and they represent all of these brands that you find within their permanent showroom. And so it's wonderful. So if you're a buyer and you walk in and you just want to see one brand, you may find other brands in their showroom that you want to take a peek at before you leave. And so there's a lot of interaction and it's just kind of, you know, I always say it's kind of like walking into a specialty store. That's what it feels like walking into a showroom. It's just like a specialty store, they just only sell to buyers, they don't sell to consumers.

I agree. Definitely has that feel. And a lot of times that's where you'll find things like territory protection and a little bit more, I would say, like ongoing service to the boutique.

Absolutely. Oh, absolutely. So a representative of a brand, their job is to work not just for the brand, but for you as a business owner. And they are responsible for making sure that your needs are taken care of. So if product is shipped and maybe it's not the correct, not the proper goods, maybe you know, it's the wrong sizes or the wrong color, they immediately, those reps are immediately you call them and they immediately get it taken care of for you. So the proper goods are sent directly to you immediately. They are there kind of like as your is your customer agent, you know, the in between person between the brand and the business owner.

Perfect. So if someone hasn't been to market before, again, let's talk about a couple of things. First time market goers should definitely know about in terms of how to handle that first trip to market. So in a couple, I'll jump in with you on a couple of these because we talk about this so often inside of Bootcamp and inside of some of our training programs for newer boutique owners. But let's talk about coming to market and exploring versus placing all of your orders at once.

Oh yes. So my first recommendation, the moment you walk in, in our door, like, you know, into a market, like do your research online beforehand. Make sure that you've gone onto the website of the show and that you have checked out the floors or the space that you're going to be, you know, utilizing while you're there at market. Check and see if they have any educational seminars or walking tours that would allow you to kind of familiarize yourself with the think it's so important. As someone that's new to Dallas, we do a walking tour at 9am every morning during market, even the last day. And the reason why we do it is because, you know, if you're embarking on a new business, you may not be able to take off, you know, three or four days in a row. You may only be able to take off one particular day. And we don't want someone showing up in our building and not knowing what to do or where to go. And that walking tour lasts like 45 minutes. And we take you all around our campus and we kind of, you know, in like a Cliff notes way, say, this is what you can find on this floor, this is what you can find on that floor. If you are focused on, you know, women's apparel, we're going to show you which floors that you need to definitely check out. I think that's so important. That's like first and foremost, you have to kind of do your homework before you get there. Wouldn't you agree?

Oh, totally. And I would even take that a little bit of a step further. So, you know, depending on how long you've been in business, you're going to have varying levels of data. But I think it's really, really important that you come to market with a buying plan of some kind. You know, some of you I know work with companies like Management one and you have these elaborate inventory plans where you're coming in and you're. If you don't even know what that is, let me break it down a step further. You're looking at your business by classification and you're saying, okay, you know, it's not just tops that I'm buying, but truly it's blouses, sweaters, outerwear, graphic tees, rompers and jumpsuits. You know, you're going into the more minutia level of, of your inventory and you're saying, alright, what am I projected to do this Quarter or whatever you're buying, you know, period or season is what did I do, you know, last time or last year, this time or last month or what do I think I can do? What do I have on hand at home already that's aged or what do I have on home that's fresh? And then of that, where's my gap? So what is my open to buy? What do I have available to me? And then what kind of cash am I going to put down in these areas based on what my best sellers currently are?

I mean that should be like stamped in gold. It should, it should be like, it really should be on like here is your tax number and your, your lease or your, you know, your business account. And that should come like in a plaque because it's hands down, it is the way to success. Yes, 100%.

Here's how much money you can spend. So piggybacking off of what you said, you come in and you've got a plan, right? You know what you to buy when you come to market. But that doesn't necessarily mean that you're going to buy it all in day one. So going back to taking the tour and really getting the lay of the land, I would say, you know, market's such a great time to also explore new vendors, look at quality, meet new people, make relationships and if you don't place every single order immediately, that's okay because vendors want you to be successful. They want to create a win win partnership over time. So it's important to get the lay of the land and make sure you're buying right, not just buy the first prettiest thing that you see.

I have to agree with you and I also think that as you're walking around and you start having conversations with the brands, you will notice that the reps and the people that work for these companies, whether it's a multi line rep or it is a person that directly works with a brand, you will learn that their best interest is making sure that you succeed. So you may pick up an item that you just absolutely love and they're like nope, we're not cutting that. You know, we're doing it in a different color or we're doing this different because when it came out the sleeve was too narrow or you know, you really do, that is a huge benefit. Kind of going back to what we were saying about the difference between online and in market buy it kind of it that feedback is invaluable, especially when you're spending your money.

Absolutely, absolutely. Get to know them Because I guess if you're familiar with how the industry works as a whole and they cut one sample and you know, I rodeo, you know this. So we're like a traveling road show, right. I think of reps like the same way, like they're, you know, it's traveling circus where they're going from market to market sharing their samples so they know like they have the data to know what's working in different places of the country and for stores and based on fit and trend. So it's important you have the relationship and you get that feedback from them.

Exactly. And as you return to market, you know, when you are in need of immediate delivery goods, you have the ability to rep. That rep and representative will have the ability to tell you, you know, this is what I have. And it's selling like crazy. Like most, I think brands want, you know, they want you guys to succeed. Not most, all of them do because then they succeed. And if they will tell you those tips, I think especially when you're putting in like an order that is immediate delivery.

Yeah, absolutely. Yeah.

I love it when they provide that feedback. I'm sorry, I didn't mean to interrupt you.

No, you're totally fine. I think that's good that, that's another question that you should ask right away is when you come to market you'll see that all the hangers are usually color coded based on delivery date. So that's another thing. If you're new and you're walking into a booth, I mean that's one of the first things the reps gonna tell you. And you're gonna want to know what's your opening, you know, what's your minimum order, do you territory protect or like what other terms do you have? And then how is your booth arranged? So I know how to navigate the booth that I'm walking into.

I think that's another great. I mean that's like number two on the plaque. Yeah.

One more thing on the plaque can we talk about if you want to save like your handwriting the whole time you're at market. Because I Write like a 12 year old boy as it is. So you know what it's like at the end of market. Like you can't write your name half the time. So come prepared with a note card or stickers or something that has your store name, mailing address, your tax id, all the important information that your brands are going to ask you about. You've got it on a card so they can just staple that right to your purchase order and they have it for safekeeping. Also make sure you've got a firm like you know when the ship date is and when your cancel date is. So you're not getting summer goods delivered in September, for example. You've got all of that spelled out up front so you don't have to rehash it every time you sit down. And you can really get through several more booths that much quicker.

Definitely agreed. And I think, especially with shipping, I think being able to know if you want everything shipped at one time or if you take as ready, I mean that's very important because of the shipping costs.

Yeah, you can have a lot of money tied up in shipping if it just comes as is versus if you wanted it consolidated. And there's services, actually we have a couple wonderful services inside of the hub that will do that for, for you that will go and consolidate depending on what brands you're ordering from, that can offer consolidated shipping for you. What other tips do you have for first timers coming to market?

Let's see here. I was trying to think. Well, I think our, I think that, I think a tour and education leading in is key. And I think once you get to market, you know, and you're, you're, you know, you've already, you've got your open to buy set and you look at the various, you know, categories that you're looking, you know, that you're interested in and that's when you determine where you need to go in the show during the, the show like during the market to see them. And I think allocating yourself a certain amount of time is key because you only have, you know, you're very time sensitive at a market. And if you know that you're only staying a certain amount of nights and days, I think that's when you have to allocate, you know, schedule yourself because you do, it's excitement and again, you're feeding off the energy and you could spend quite a bit of time just working one line and then half your day is gone. And that's when you're like, oh, no, I haven't had a chance to, you know, to go after this category. And, and so I do think that, you know, sometimes having, I always say a buyer, a buying buddy is really good because that person, you know, can keep an eye on the clock.

Well, I like that. I think that's super smart. A buying buddy.

A buying buddy, yeah. You don't necessarily need their opinion.

You make a margarita and a watch and that's all he needs.

It's exactly right. I mean, if you really trust your buying Betty's taste, I think it's wonderful. That's just an added bonus. But you really need someone that maybe doesn't, you know, feed into the way we all do about this industry. You know, all the excitement, someone that's, you know, a little bit more focused and, you know, keep an eye on the clock. Because I do think at the end of each market, I always hear buyers saying, and I did not have enough time. I meant to get back here and here. And I just, I didn't get to it. And I do think that that's important, especially if it's your first time or, you know, your first year, because, you know, you just got to cover all your bases and you learn as you go. So I think it's always best to do that in the beginning.

Super smart. And your buying Betty can help stick to your budget, too, because it's really easy once you get there to get excited and get big eyes and big bellies. Just like we sit down for dinner and it's okay to stick to that budget and say, no, but next time. And now you know where to come back next time. And even when you're running short on time, come around. And if you don't have time to place all those orders that last day when you're rushing out to the door, take a photo, grab a card, make a connection, but just like, get the idea while you're in the space and you're in that creative frame of mind that you could come back to later.

On, I think that's key. And I also think that as you get to know people, and I know that your members are great at networking with one another, I do think, like, you know, if you do have to pass on something because you have, let's say you do not have any room left and you're open to buy, you can always, you know, remember, oh, you know, I saw Ashley buying that line and I'm going to ask her how it sold this past season. And then, you know, when you're coming back to market, I'm going to go back and check it out. It sold really well for her. The fit was great and I really wanted it. I just couldn't do it then. And I do think that's how you upgrade and change product within your business.

Yeah, definitely. I think that's very smart. And it's funny when I go to market, I don't know if you feel like this too, but I feel like I can walk around no matter what market we're At.

At.

And I immediately can spot boutique hub members. Spotting boutique brands is one thing, right, because they've got the little hub sign in their booth, and that is helpful. But the boutique owners are always the friendliest ones. They're like, they're helping each other. They're excited, they're getting together. They're, you know, we've got meetups all the time. But I don't know, tell me this, and maybe you're just, like, stroking my ego when you tell me this, but I feel like market was always so, like, not everyone was as willing in terms of retail to speak to one another.

No, it was so competitive. No, it was so competitive. Absolutely. No, I totally agree with you. So. And I also think that it was, I hate to say the word corporate, but it was. It was stiff. And, you know, it was like, oh, I go to market. You know, it was very. It was very like, you know, you were better than everybody else because you owned your own business and you went to market and heaven forbid that you actually communicated with, you know, your friends that you knew in the business.

Why are you laughing at me?

I can't even believe I just gave that accent away. But it's so true.

It's so good.

And the women, you know, that was when you would see, I mean, I will say the attire was. Was glamorous and beautiful. You know, that was when women dressed and wore white gloves and pill hats and their suits and everything to go to market. Because, you know, going to market, you dressed because you were having to show off against all of your competitors. And now it's. You come to market and people, you know, if you're new, and I mean, I hate to say it, you do not have a stamp on your head, but we just know, we know you're new, and we're going to walk up and we're going to say, hey, can we help you find where you're going? And it could be the, you know, the most simple question. Where's the ladies room? Well, you're just going to go right down here and. But back then, you would not. And it's just, I feel like market has evolved to a much more. It's a happier place. You know, we want to. To help each other. We want everyone to succeed. And I love that support system.

Oh, man, that makes me feel so good. Like, that's what community over competition is all about. Business is lonely as it is. It's so hard and it's so lonely. And if you don't have a support system, man, You've got to have someone that's going to help you through the tough times, because they're going to come no matter what in business. But, man, you need a cheerleader that's going to cheer you on in the good times just as much.

I agree. Boutique Hub has really brought, you know, the community together, and whether you're a buyer and a business owner or a rep or a brand, and I love that so much. I mean, really, what you've done has changed this industry so much and has allowed it to push it forward and evolve. And I think that's the support. Like, that's the support and the, you know, the ties that it needed. You came in at the best time. I can't say that enough, Ashley. I can't. You really did. I mean, you saw it and you recognized it and you just jumped right in. And, you know, I just think. I really do love that about Boutique Hub because it has really allowed small business owners to excel and succeed and continue to grow business. And I think it's so important.

Oh, man. Well, thank you, first of all. But second of all, that wouldn't have been possible. I'm going to stroke your ego now. That would not have been possible without you, my friend, because you were the very first person that said, oh, hi, crazy woman with a wild idea. I'll take you up on that offer. Let's host an event together. And you did. And it was like four months before the event was going to happen. I mean, you must have thought we were nuts, but you went for it. And look at. Because you believed in that mission, Amy, then you helped make that possible. Like, if you wouldn't have believed in it, I don't know where we would be right now. But that was the very first step that was monumental for us.

I'm going to tell you a really funny story, and I can't believe I'm even saying this. I'm grinning ear to ear. Thank you. I mean, who. You know what? I was so confident when the first time we spoke, I just thought, they're onto something here. And I have to tell you, the first time we had a chat about having Boutique Summit in Dallas, I remember. Yeah, it was. It was like four months, wasn't it?

Yeah, it was fast.

Yeah. And it was fast. And I remember you were like, yeah, I'm going to cap it at this number. And I remember getting off the phone and just saying to myself, I'd just be happy with 50 stores. Like, you know, and it wasn't. It wasn't because Things were bad because they weren't. It was just. I was so impressed with what you had already, you know, everything that you had done thus far. And at that time, I mean, even more so now, but at that time. And I thought I would just be happy to host, you know, 50 business owners that are going to network with one another and support each other and learn from one another. And it was so much more so. I was just so excited that we pulled it off. Like, it was great. It really was great. And it continues to be great.

We had like, what do we have the first year? 350, something like that.

375? Yeah, maybe 375.

Amazing. And there was two of us.

Us.

And on the Boutique Hub team, it was me, Beth, and Beth and Jesse were part time at that time. We were.

So wasn't Jessie pregnant?

Who was pregnant? Yeah, Jesse would have been.

She would have been pregnant.

No, she wasn't pregnant yet. Right before she got pregnant, she got carbon monoxide poisoning.

Yada, yada.

Oh, gosh. Nobody was pregnant at that time.

That's right. That's right. Thank goodness it didn't happen in the building.

I always feel like I have to clarify that for people. Like, yes, I did get carbon monoxide, but it wasn't.

It wasn't inside the Market Center.

Not at Dallas Market Center. It all still worked out. We were fine. What's cool about this, though? Let me take this a step further. So community over competition has happened among stores. It's happened among brands, but I also feel like it's happened among markets, which is super cool. So the, you know, the Boutique Summit started in Dallas. We held it there for two years. We went to Atlanta last year. And I think it's cool that you guys are still just as supportive today as you were then. Even though that event has always been meant to, like, move around the country to give opportunity for all types of retailers to come and attend the event. I think that's really cool that you're so collaborative with other Market centers as well.

Absolutely. And, you know, the. The main reason, like, for it is one, we love you guys. We adore you guys, and we believe in everything. In your mission. Mission. Let's just. I'll just, you know, put it out there. We do. We believe in everything you're doing. And at the same time, the only way for boutique small business owners to continue to grow and benefit from the Hub is when you are allowed to reach as many out there as possible. And so understanding the movement makes perfect sense because we want these retail stores to be successful. Because if the retail stores are successful, the brands are successful. And I don't think I can say the word successful again, but I might start slurring. But no, it's so true. I really do believe, like, that is our partnership is. It's, you know, it's more than just a partnership. We consider you guys family and we're, you know, we are supportive of what you're doing because we believe in it.

I love that. Thank you for that. Let's talk about another, you know, collaboration or like, another big change happening in our industry that's been huge news for you guys for the last, what, year and a half? And that is, you know, we've held Western Summit in Denver for the last couple of years, and now that entire show, the WESA show, is moving to Dallas. Can you talk about that a little bit?

Absolutely. We have. Oh, gosh. So our. I'm just going to speak on floors. Our 14th floor currently right now, is in transition and to accommodate the premier Western brands in, like, a permanent capacity. You know, many of these. Many of these showrooms will start opening in 2020, but everyone will be open by January 2021. And that will be the grand opening of the largest Western market in the world. How cool is that?

That is so cool.

I know. January 12th through the 16th. We're very excited. 2021. And on top of all, you know, this part of this, like, it's like a. It's a partnership. Wesa, the largest Western English apparel and equipment trade show. That's a mouthful, isn't it? Is moving to Dallas, and they will be debuting their show in January 2021, which is on. Will be on our 11th floor. And that currently the 11th floor is under construction in preparation for this amazing monster show. So we're all very excited. It's a great partnership. I mean, I don't know. It's, you know, I wake up every morning, I think, I can't believe we did it. Like, I can't believe this is happening. And it's going to be here before we know it.

I think that's awesome. It's going to be such a great change. And we're excited to be a part of that, too.

I know. Because then you'll be here for the Western Summit. I know. I love is. It's going to be. It's going to be January 2021. You know, it is just. It's going to feel so good. It's going to feel so good, and everyone is going to be learning and Buying and making new relationships and seeing, you know, all that, all that we have to offer. And I can't wait.

Change is hard in any industry, but change is hard in this industry. And I know this didn't come easy. So I really need to commend you and your team for all that you've put into this and everyone on the WESA team as well. All that they've put into this. I think it's really cool to see these two communities come together the way that they have.

Oh, thank you. I know Dallas Market center appreciates that and I know WESA does too. I feel like both teams have really, you know, they just sat down, they put their heads together and they made it happen.

Absolutely. All right, so let's talk about what else is happening inside of dmc. I know you've got a market coming up in October, so let's start there. Talk to me about what everyone's going to see at the October market and maybe even some trends that you think are going to be coming at that time as well.

Oh, this is fun stuff. Okay, so this upcoming October, first and foremost I have to, you know, remind everyone we made a day pattern shift. So we, our markets are running Tuesday through Friday instead of Wednesday through Saturday. So we have had feedback over the past year from our buyers and our exhibitors and stores are wanting to be home for the weekend to do business and live their lives. And our exhibitors are wanting to support their buyers. So we made that day pattern shift for this upcoming October show. And the market is October 22nd through the 25th. And I think product source opportunities to talk about just, you know, if you decide to come to October market. We have added some fun things and we have heard from a lot of buyers that are interested in plus size options like collections, true plus size collections, that they were having a hard time finding them and we wanted to make it super easy. So at market we will, at all of our infoboosts, we will actually have a list available for all buyers to be able to see all of the plus size collections that are in the Dallas Market Center. And I think that's gonna be great. I think it's gonna be yeah. For the brands. And then of course, you know, at October we're there's a spring focus and you know, with this focus you're gonna see a lot of new contemporary resources. On our 13th floor in temps, brand assembly will be here with their high end contemporary brands and of course fashion accessories. You know, I think, you know, sourcing accessories throughout the Show, I think is. Is so much fun. I think it's like a treasure hunt and you get to find some really great things. And I think that, you know, we're going to see accessories, obviously, transition for spring, and I think we're going to see a lot of that during the show as well.

I love that. I love the accessories market. Actually, one of our biggest members, I'll say, like, collaboration of members is part of the embellishment showroom, and they had a big move under the last market. Or wait, has it been two markets? Just one market.

Oh, yes. And you know what? I actually had that in part of my group growth, like, opportunities, ideas I wanted to talk with you about. I kind of. I'll hop around. I'll talk about a little bit about that because it's not just for October. It's. It's, you know, it's all the time. And then I'll maybe flip back to Trends. But the seventh floor has 10 new cash and carry showrooms.

Wow.

And embellishments is one of them. They. We have kind of just moved everyone around. We have new showrooms that have opened and the vendors are just. They're having a ball on the seventh floor. So that, like, the show. The new showrooms include, like, apparel, handbags, jewelry, accessories. I think it's a definite, like, must stop when you come to our show in October.

Oh, I totally. It was. It was really happening the last time I was there. Like, I. To all of those vendors, and I think pretty much all of those are members of the Hub. So, I mean, I commend them. They work their butts off to make that transition happen. It looked beautiful. It was packed. But, Amy, that's such a trend and a demand in the industry. You mentioned having more accessibility to extended sizes a minute ago, and I hear that, like, that's a resounding, desperate, please help the retailers do that. So thank you for that. But number two is everybody wants more immediates. They want more cash and carry. So the more you can continue to recruit brands to offer that to retailers, I think that's a huge win.

I think so, too. And I think we've done a really good job at merchandising it on our seventh floor. So you know that when you go there and you're having to make all these purchases, you know, it's kind of. I don't want to say it's like the last stop, but maybe, like, you plan your afternoon that way so you can, you know, take your load out on your own or have it Shipped, you know, depending upon how big it is.

Bring an empty suitcase with you. Actually, you know what's really smart? I'll let you in on this little, like, insider tip. Right. I've seen so many boutique hub boutiques come with their suitcase on day one. They go to cash and carry. They buy amazing things, they go back to their hotel room and, you know, like, video selling. Live sales are so huge right now.

Yes.

A lot of them that go back to their hotel room, do a live sale, sell everything they bought in cash and carry on day one and go back on day two and refill their suitcase.

Brilliant. I think it's perfect.

Just pay for your trip right there, right?

That's right. And it's done. And then you can just go back and get more. I think that's perfect. I love that also. Okay, so we were. I was mentioning accessories in October. We Also, on our 13th floor, have a lot of permanent accessory fashion and jewelry showrooms. These are not cash and carry, but we have also moved, or, excuse me, opened 24 new showrooms on the 13th floor.

Wow.

So exciting. I know. So a lot of this has to do with transitioning, getting ready for the Western and west show in January 20, that we've already discussed. So there is a lot of movement and a lot of new showrooms opening. So we're excited. 24 new showrooms. I mean, the 13th floor is packed. So you have your permanent showrooms on 13. And it's not just accessories. It's also going to have women's apparel and as well as shoes. So it's just. It's going to be a great floor to stop by and check out. You're going to be able to investigate and see new things. I'm excited about that. And then we have eight new showrooms on our floor, 15th floor. And that includes, like, Athleisure Contemporary as well as, like, women's. Better to bridge collections. So there's a lot of. A lot to see in October.

Yeah, there's a. There's some really cool things up there. I know sometimes that floor doesn't always get as much traffic as I think it deserves, but, man, there's some really cool things. If you're willing to just go investigate and see what's up there. I think it's awesome.

Absolutely. And I would advise that for someone new, you know, set aside time where you can, after you maybe you've done the tour, that you can, you know, walk around and go back and really make notes. Some notes, you know, maybe even an hour, just to just so you know that you're not missing something that you just really must have. Our 14th floor will be in transition during October market into 2020. And that's like what I mentioned earlier. That's where basically they're going to be demolishing what's currently there and rebuilding for the premier western brands to take their permanent showrooms. And, you know, some will be open. I think there might be one or two open in October, but each, each time we have go through a market in 2020, you'll see more and more vendors opening up on that floor.

Awesome. I love that. One thing as I'm hearing you speak that I really want to make sure we talk about and mention is how if you're a boutique hub member, how do you maximize the market experience when you're in Dallas? And so there's two things I want to just really mention quickly is, number one, if you don't know Ed, our director of wholesale already, he's from Dallas and so he's at. I think Ed comes to just about every market, doesn't he? Amy? Everyone, everyone, you guys have been so generous. You've offered showroom space to us at the Hub. So Ed is like, he's like the king of the showroom, right? Like, he always has food, he always has drinks, he always has, you know, anything you need as a boutique owner. If you just need to go take a break somewhere and talk to Ed, he's such a mentor in this industry. So thank you for that, first of all. But second of all, there's always. We have a must see list for all of our members that's at the shows and in the showroom where we list out all of our boutique hub members that you can come and see at the market. And then so many of them offer specials to Hub members. So when you walk around and you've got your pink hub lanyard on or your hub button and you come into all those, you know, that are listed on the messy list or that have the Hub sign in their showroom or in their booth, like, that's how you know you've got an awesome vetted boutique Hub member that's looking for you and wants to collaborate with you as well.

I have to interject one thing. I think Ed is like second in line for heaven in my book. He is a true gem. He's such a gem person. I mean, I just, I enjoy working with him and I love it when I message him and say, hey, you know, I've got a room for you during market and he's like, I'm ready to go. I have all my decor. You just tell me when and where. And I love that because he has such a passion for what he does, and it's intoxicating. Like, you know, he. I love it. He shares it with everyone, and it's so great.

It is like he truly wants to see everyone succeed, whether, I mean, because he's been on the vendor side of things forever, but he's also been on the buyer side of things. He was a buyer at north, so he truly understands both sides of the industry and has such great advice. So if you're somewhere and you're like, man, I really could use an ear right now that understands how I could do better either as an exhibitor or as a retailer, please go find Ed in our showroom.

Absolutely. He's your man.

Who's the first in line for heaven.

In your book, Harrison, My son. So let's hope. Let's hope my head husband doesn't listen to this, but no. Ed and my husband are, like, second in line together, but I will say Harrison's number one.

That is so sweet.

Oh, my gosh.

Oh, Harrison, he's so sweet.

Thank you. So I'm sorry. I just had to say that because I do. Like I said, I think that the Hub is so lucky to have him, and I think that your members are just so lucky to be able to work with your entire team, because you all are just, like I said, you are ensuring that they continue to have success. And that makes me real happy because that makes everyone else in the industry happy, so.

Oh, thank you. Such a love fest over here. I appreciate it.

It is. I can't stop smiling. But you mentioned trends. You want to talk about trends?

Yeah, let's talk about trends.

Okay. Well, first, I'm not a trend forecaster, but I. I thought about this when you mentioned trends for spring, and I kind of put my buyer's hat on, because I used to do that back in the day. And I thought from a buyer's perspective, I always considered maybe the top three things that a true consumer is interested in as they transition their wardrobe from winter to spring. And I know that Hub members know this very well, but buyers must know. For those of you that are new, buyers must know know their consumer in order to translate trends, because I think that's so important. Some trends can be just really out of this world, and I think having the gift of being able to translate them for your consumer base is key when you're at market. So wouldn't you agree? I mean, I think that's really important. And, you know, like I said, I'm not a trend forecaster, but, you know, I do have the obsession. I pay attention to fashion weeks, and New York just had their fashion week, and Milan just had their. And I think Paris is actually running right now, and they're showing a lot of amazing fashion accessories and jewelry. And so I wanted to touch on some things that I think, you know, our buyers should be looking for while they're at market in October.

Absolutely.

So one thing for sure is statement earrings. I mean, we all love them, and I think it creates a great mood for the person wearing them, but it's such a good conversation starter. So I always, like, recommend that you wear, like, your statement earring if you're going to. To meet new people, because I think it's just a great way to. To get to know someone. The big hoops are back and every color and texture, which is so fun. And I was really surprised to see oversized chains and metals. Like, it reminded me of Flavorplace.

Just kidding.

I was just about to say that I'm gonna be like, who is the guy with the. With the clock around his neck? Yes. It. These. These like an acrylic and metals that have been embossed with rhinestones or beads. Remember the colorful gems that we saw, like, in the rainbows this summer? They're continuing them on, like, just in bigger, more statement pieces. And one of my favorites is pearls. I don't know if it's because I'm a Gemini, but I just think classic pearls are so great. But they're also bringing back colored pearls, which is fun if you're trying to, like, you know, mix a funky look look, you know, a little bit Chanel. And then the one thing that is new is the matching handbag. So the statement handbag we're seeing is, like, gonna stay. Like, statement handbags are here to stay, but they're matching bags to outfits. So if you're wearing a black and white outfit, your handbag is gonna be black and white, too. And I thought that was kind of fun and feminine for spring. I love that. Yeah. What about footwear? Footwear is great. That's one of my. That would be my second one, because I think that, you know, even if you're just. If you're not footwear with your business, you still kind of have to think of when you're buying for your apparel, what type of shoes that your, you know, your customer is going to be wearing.

Such a huge opportunity A huge missed opportunity for a lot of retailers to miss out on footwear. And to me, that's one of the number one reasons to go to market, period, is footwear.

I agree.

Mm.

Because. Well, I think like, I think like, if you, if you're, if you're looking at footwear nowadays, so many brands are, they do not require you to buy the full size set. They are allowing you to do like the half order. I don't know if I'm saying that right. But, you know, instead of doing like the full size range, which can be, you know, financially. There you go. A financially taxing, you know, especially if you're just getting into shoes, you're able to go to the half and carry just like the priority, you know, maybe onesies of the sizes that are the most popular. And I think that's a way to get. Get your, you know, your customers excited that you're going to be going into shoes and footwear. But what I love. Have you noticed that the square toe is coming back?

Yes, very much. That's like a high fashion trend that's now making its way into, I would say more like boutique level, Right?

Yes. I love it. And I love seeing that they're keeping, like, loafers with the really chunky heel for spring. I love that. And then I was really, I was surprised to see that that bows are coming back on the tops of shoes. It reminds me of the Sam and Libby. Do you remember those little ballet flats that had the bows over the toe?

Yes, yes.

Yeah. They're showing a lot of bows. And I thought that was fun, too.

A little more feminine twist on things.

Yeah. For spring and then for apparel. Oh, my gosh. I mean, how fun it always when I. Anytime I think of spring, I think of the Devil Wears Prada and when she says floral.

Groundbreaking.

Yes. Thank you.

We're the same person. I could quote movies with you all day long.

I love it so much. And so I got tickled at myself when I started thinking of, like, well, what trends would you talk about for spring? I immediately thought of that movie and I thought, okay, so I recommend that when you're like, checking things out at market, you know, to experiment with some prints, you know, you're going to see the change of fabric from heavy to light. And, you know, some prints do better on lighter, weighted clothing. And I think that you're going to see a lot of, like, polka dots and tropical prints. I didn't want to say floral just because. And the colors, you know, normally we see pastels, but now they're moving towards more citrus colors with, like, lime greens and bright oranges. And so I think that's kind of new. Oh, this one is good. So who all, you know, you know, just dive dove into the white denim craze this past spring and summer this year, and now they have. They. The way that they transitioned it is to go into the full all white suit, and I think that's stunning on any woman. I feel like if a woman walks into a room and they have on a white or ivory suit, every person in the room turns and looks at them. I don't know why. It's just a firm belief that I have.

I completely agree with that. And I've been seeing them, honestly, even into fall, you know, the whole, like, don't wear white after Labor Day Jazz, it's still everywhere. I've been shopping for NFR and actually one of my favorite boutiques, Buck and Wild Designs. She's like. She knows my style. She's got the cutest white blazer right now that I want to buy so bad for Vegas. But I think suits, like, blazers and then matching power suits and white and, like, light colors, baby pinks and things, too, are 100% on trend for spring and for fall in just a different color palette.

I agree. I just. I think that white suit would be something that would just see you through for the whole year. I really do it. They're so. They're perfect. And I think it doesn't matter what size you are. It doesn't matter what hair color you are. Anyone can wear that color. You know what I mean? And you can put, you know, your. You can put your lime green with it or your bright orange or just black and white. Like, I just think it's perfect. And then I was trying to think, like, here in Dallas, you know, like I said, I'm not a trend forecaster, but we do have people that come in that are. And during October, Doniger's group presentation will be covering spring trends, and they are the trend leaders. So I think that if you were at the show, you'd be able to capture, you know, like, kind of like, what you must add to your spring list. And, you know, you would immediately know how to translate that trend for your, you know, for the right price point and the right custom, you know, for your customer.

Mm.

Well, I will say this. I'm bragging, but I know, like, I know the secrets of our fashion show that's coming up in October, and I've seen the sketches and the preliminary plans, and I Can't tell you like I am. I can't wait. I will. I know that we. We put our fashion show live on Facebook, on the Dallas Market Center Facebook page. But it always comes after. You know, it's. It's recorded during the show show, and then they post it after. But I will tell you, it is going to be so inspiring. I mean, we try really hard to inspire the buyers when they come to market because, you know, I don't know, I feel like that's our job, and I feel like it's, you know, our exhibitor's job to take care of our buyers. So it's going to be. There's a lot of floral again, devil's words, Prada. But I know that the fashion show, it's going to tie all of spring together, all those trends together, and give great sourcing opportunities for buyers. So if you are new and you have not experienced a fashion show here in Dallas, we do provide the lines and the brands that are on the models while you're at the show, so you have the ability to take notes, proper notes, so you can plan the next day to maybe stop by and check out those lines. I don't know. Overall, we just want to inspire you as you complete your buy, you know, when you're at market. So this fashion show, I think it's going to be just amazing. I was going to say off the chain, but I don't age myself.

You're just going back to the Flavor Flav?

That's right. I just have to just tie it all back in.

Oh, my gosh. I was driving home, like, really late last night from the airport, and so to keep myself awake, all I did was listen to 90s rap. So, I mean, we are the same human for that reason. It was. It works. It works.

It does. It was really a good decade.

I told you guys, listening to this podcast is, like, gonna be listening to a girl's, like, chat on the inside. Are we even recording right now? We're just having a good time talking to one another, I think.

Having a great time.

All right, so last but not least, if anyone has not been to Dallas before, so, you know, I'm a Midwest girl. What are some things people should do or. And expect and tell me about the hotel room situation. Like, what do people need to know about visiting Dallas when they come to market?

Well, I love your first question. Why Dallas? And obviously I'm partial, but I have been here quite some time, and I have to say, I think we get it. Like, I think that the Wholesale business is in Dallas Market Center's DNA. You know, I feel like we've been a leader in the industry for, I don't know, I think it's over 60 years now and I come from a specialty store back. So I think the importance of the fact that the original family that created the Dallas Market center, the business still owns us, I think it extends across all small business owners because they're managing and running their business just the same. I don't know. To me that's one of those things I care about that you all small business owners, your members have created your business and you've invested your passion and your knowledge and you've hired the best staff and support system. And I don't know, I think that is what continues because we've done the same thing and I think that's what continues to move us forward as the industry evolves. So that's really like my answer to that question. And I know it's so broad and vague and like doesn't really like go for all those details, but I don't know, that's just my passion for this company. You know, I just, I just think from a boutique owner's viewpoint, Dallas Market center is no different than they are because we are still owned by the original family. We take our customer service and hospitality to heart. And I think that's what every small business owner does as well. And when you come to Dallas, you know, we try so hard to provide you with as much, you know, the best customer service. So if you are in need of booking a hotel room or your air, we have an in house travel agency and we don't make commission off of anything. So like if you call into like a regular travel agent to book air, I think you get charged. I've never done that, but I think you get charged like you know their fee. Well, we don't, we don't do that at all. It's really just to get you booked at the special rate that we have arranged with the hotels that surround our Market center and allow you that ease of knowing that if, you know, we have a 24 hour, you know, hotline that you can call in case you arrive at the airport and you can't find your hotel confirmation. So there are little way like those are benefits that we try to extend to those that come to our show. I don't know, I think relationships are key too and I think that the more people that we have ties to and they know how hard we work to make our market successful not only for Our exhibitors, but our buyers. I think that goes a long way.

Definitely. And also, I mean, the food. Could we also mention that.

I think the food's pretty darn good. And in Dallas, in the city of Dallas. I mean, I honestly. And I hate that I do not know the effects official title that the city of Dallas was just given, but if I'm not mistaken, and if I am just know that I'm just playing around. But I really do believe the city of Dallas was just given an award for being like the best place, like the best city in the United States. And it has something to do with, like, because we have the best restaurants. We do have chain restaurants here, but the majority of eateries are privately owned. So again, it goes back to the small business mindset. And the food here is fabulous. I mean, just, I don't care what, like what you're. If it's sushi, if it's steak, if it's. If you're a vegetarian and anything, you name it. And there is a restaurant here that's going to cater to you and you're going to have so much fun.

I love it. You know what one of my favorites is? Can I give you this insider secret?

Yes.

The rodeo goat.

I ate there for lunch today.

I just love it. Oh, my goodness.

I do too. I love their menu. I love everything that it stands for. And I love that when you go in, you. They have burgers that compete against each other. So have you seen that?

No.

Okay. So I don't know because, you know, the names of their burgers are just completely off, you know, just different odd names.

Yeah.

And it's like, you know, if Betty sue barbecue burger is, you know, 42, and you know, I don't know what the other one, the rodeo goat special is at 81, like, if you're interested in trying something new, you. You kind of know, like, what the favorite is. But they put different burgers to compete each other. Like two burgers each day on the menu that compete against each other.

I never realized that they did that. That's interesting.

It is. It's fun.

So if you haven't been there, it's like the coolest burger place. And we. So even if you're like vegan or vegetarian, there's options for that there too. Like their own impossible burger, but it's just a really cool atmosphere. They've got this cool, like, outdoor patio. That's my favorite. My favorite burger. I forget what it's called, but it's the one with egg on it.

Oh, I think I've had that one. Is it. Does it have a little bit of spice to it?

Yeah.

Yeah. I can't remember what it's called. I had the DCC cheeseburger today. I was real mainstream today. I didn't really like the two that were competing against each other, so I thought, okay, I'm just gonna go. I will tell you, you know, it's crazy. Their queso there is to die for.

Oh, their queso is to die, die for.

Yes. It's delicious. That's a good favorite to have.

Amy, I'm getting hungry. I feel like we need to come to Dallas now. We need to change the change subject. Gosh. Well, Amy, this is so much fun. Thank you for taking the time to chat with me today. I hope that if you guys are listening, that you. That you learned something about going to market, about trend, and about dmc. But really, thank you for being such an awesome friend of ours and a friend of our communities and for always looking out for what's best for this industry. I just really admire that about you. So. So please, hats off to your entire team, and thank you for being on the show.

Well, Ashley, you are doing great things for this business, and I think your members and business owners in this industry know it, and they're so thankful for you and Boutique Hub and the entire team. I mean, I'm so proud of all of your accomplishments, you know, I mean, you're really going after it, and I can't wait to see what yet to come. You know, Dallas, you know, we're family. We're a loyal partner with you all and as well as a supporter. So thanks for having me. This has been so exciting. I've never done a podcast before, and I can't tell you like I've been telling everyone, you would have thought I was going to be in a movie today. So, you know what? Hats off to Boutique Hub. We can't wait to welcome you guys back in October and into 2020. I can't wait for the Western Summit. It's going to be great in January 2021. So there's so much to look forward to. Thanks.

I appreciate. Thank you so much. Have an awesome day, Amy.

Thank you. You too. Hey, guys.

I hope you found this episode helpful in your journey to attending either your first market or attending a market in Dallas for the first time. I want to let you know that I'm teaming up with Dallas Market center today to offer a fun giveaway for this podcast. So if you haven't had a chance yet, follow the link in the show notes to enter our giveaway. We're going to be giving away travel vouchers for you to attend attend a Dallas market of your choice, some Boutique boss swag and just in time for the holidays I want to get you a copy of our Holiday Marketing Mastermind course. So one lucky winner is going to walk away with a boatload of prizes. So follow the link in the show notes and we can't wait to get you entered.

Hey guys, thank you so much.

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Sam.