When Becky Evans-Dennison of Maple Grove prepared to go back to work after spending a few years as a stay-at-home mom, she needed to revamp her wardrobe. “I liked to shop before I had kids, but now I don’t have time,” Evans-Dennison says. When she heard about a new, free personal shopping service, she thought she’d give it a try.
Evans-Dennison’s appointment at Arc’s Value Village was a success. She walked away pushing a cart full of items that included outfits, accessories and purses. The self-described “solids girl” even picked up a black and white floral jacket.
Evans-Dennison’s story is not unique at Arc’s Value Village. More than 1,000 customers have used the free service since 2011. According to Laurel Hansen, business director for Arc’s Value Village, customers who use personal shoppers are more successful in finding more outfits. “From day one, personal shopping appointments have been in great demand,” Hansen says.
The personal shopping program originated with a Maple Grove native who had a heart for thrifting and putting trendy looks together. “One of my first jobs was as a cashier at the Arc’s Value Village,” says Michelle Raven. “It was there that I developed a love for the eclectic, unpredictable and adventurous world of thrifting.”
After seeing people’s reactions to her finds, Raven got the idea that she could help clients who didn’t have the patience or inspiration to sort through racks of clothes. “I wanted to give those folks a reason to give secondhand a chance,” she explains. Arc’s Value Village decided to try a pilot program for six to nine months.
When a client schedules a personal shopping appointment, he or she fills out an image profile that outlines size, style and need. Raven has styled for men, women, teens and even tweens.
When she shops for a client, she’s looking for quality pieces, knowing the clothing on the racks varies from day to day. “I’m looking for everything from the basic wardrobe staples to statement pieces that have a greater impact.” Then, she takes items to the back of the store to create a style. “I try to present each client with five to 10 complete outfits,” she says. “It’s relatively easy to compile a collection of great pieces, but the real challenge is creating outfits around those great pieces.”
Raven is proud that she was able to create her dream job. “Michelle is a terrific stylist and an example of a young entrepreneur who has used her creativity to create a new career path. It fits her strengths,” says Hansen. “It’s magic that happens at the dressing room.”
Raven finds the most rewarding experiences when her designed looks inspire confidence in her clients. “Knowing every day that the work I’m doing will surprise and delight a customer is such a thrill,” she says.
What to Wear?
Do you have a party to attend? Do you want to make a good impression at a job interview? Personal shoppers help you to select a wardrobe that’s perfect for you.
Casual Fun
Looking pulled together for an outing with family and friends is a snap.
- Faux Fur Bomber Jacket, Forever 21. Our price: $12.99
- Sleeveless Cowl Neck Top, Ann Taylor. Our price: $7.99
- Red denim skinny jeans, Ann Taylor. Our price: $9.99
- Leather Jet Set Travel Pouch, Michael Kors. Our price: $15.99
- Leather Skinny Belt, Ann Taylor. Our price: $3.99
- Black Suede Platform Ankle Boots, Shoedazzle. Our price: $9.99
Total cost: $60.94
Nine to Five
Going from the office to a night out, you can look professional and pretty.
- Long Sleeve Faux Leather Shirt, Calvin Klein. Our price: $9.99
- Black Short-Sleeve Lace Blouse, Apt. 9. Our price: $5.99
- Tweed Café Capri Pant, J.Crew (Brand new with original tags priced at $149.50). Our price: $17.99
- Gold Multi-Strand Necklace. Our price: $5.99
- Cocktail Ring. Our price: $3.99
- Wide Patent Leather Belt. Our price: $2.99
- Sling Back Kitten Heel Pump, Merona. Our price: $9.99
- Mustard Patent Leather Clutch, No Name. Our price: $5.99
Total cost: $62.94
Va-Va-Voom
Date night calls for a look that’s alluring and affordable.
- Woven Silk Ruffled Plaid Blouse, Ralph Lauren. Our price: $9.99
- Leather Bomber Jacket, Arden B. Our price: $24.99
- Ribbed Wool Pencil Skirt, No Name. Our price: $7.99
- Platform Stiletto Knee-High Boots, No Name. Our price: $19.99
- Green Leather Satchel, Big Buddah. Our price: $24.99
Total cost: $87.95
Star Power
It’s the season for special occasions and events. Go for the glam!
- Black Sequined Sleeveless Jacket, Vintage. Our price: $15.99
- Red Empire Cocktail Dress with Black Lace Detail, No Name. Our Price: $9.99
- Black Platform Pumps,Nine WestOur Price: $9.99
Total cost: $35.97
You don’t have to spend a million bucks to look it. You can feel confident knowing you look great and stayed on budget. Looking good and feeling confident: priceless.
&
Special thanks to our model Jen Lindberg and to Jayne Lonergan of Creative Zen Gem for hair, makeup and jewelry.
