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With summer just around the corner, this is usually the time when an invitation to a wedding or special occasion lands on the doormat. If you’re very lucky you may have a cruise planned and if you do then you’re going to need a glamorous wardrobe.
KATWALK HEAVEN
Taking the hassle and excessive expense out of the equation, this appointment only service will prove an absolute godsend for those in search of that ‘stand out from the crowd’ ensemble. Katwalk owner, Helen Pick, talks to Vale Life.
What is Katwalk?
It’s a unique shopping experience that provides the personal attention that a customer deserves. Set in a stunning location within two acres of landscaped gardens, my customers are able to browse at their leisure. Help is at hand for those who need it and no-one is ever pressured to buy. There’s nothing worse than trying on clothes in a cramped, stuffy changing room with unflattering mirrors, so I make sure that this is an enjoyable experience.
What brands do you stock?
Mother of the bride, guest, prom wear, cruise wear, including John Charles, Dusk, Frank Usher, James Lakeland casual wear, glamourous dresses from the Catwalk Collection, London and a range of basques with Svarovski crystals, Red Carpet designs including a replica of J Lo’s white dress and many more. I’m proud to be the only stockist in south Wales of the Paparazzi clothing range which provides Hollywood glamour and sultry appeal in hot colours, sexy cuts and sleek fabric for the woman who wants to stand out from the crowd. We also have shoes to match to add that finishing touch.
Do you offer accessories?
Yes, we offer Suzy Smith bags, evening bags, jewellery and scarves.
Who are your customers?
They are usually in their mid twenties upwards. Some come to me for a mother of the bride outfit and then keep coming back for their casual wear.
Why do they choose you?
I provide a personal service without the hard sell. I want my customers to enjoy themselves without being pressured and hopefully they’ll recommend me to their friends and come back in the hope that there will be something that they like – and there usually is!
Most of my business comes from personal recommendation which pleases me, as this shows I’m doing something right! I always make sure that no one else will be wearing the same dress to the wedding or prom and make a note of the function and what people have bought to avoid this happening. I want people to leave feeling relaxed and happy with what they’ve purchased.
There is a large car parking area for groups of friends. I have many customers who arrive in groups as this makes for a good night out. What woman doesn’t enjoy trying on clothes!
What do you think sets you apart?
Katwalk offers an appointment only, confidential service. Prices are competitive and I spend as much time as the customer wants to get the look absolutely right. There’s no hard sell - just friendly, honest, approachable service. I want customers to only buy what looks stunning and suits the individual. What I offer is quality, individual garments that are affordable.
How did you get into this business?
I’ve always loved fashion but found that most shops I visited told me everything looked lovely on me, even when they clearly didn’t. I often put my trust in the staff and invariably came home and thought “why did I buy this?” As a lot of boutiques didn’t offer refunds I had cupboards full of clothes I didn’t wear so their lack of honesty cost me dearly. I find that customers like my honest approach. I also like to go on cruises so have a passion for evening wear. I have a lot of ladies who visit me specifically to stock up on fabulous cruise wear.
Where does Katwalk go from here?
In the time that Katwalk has been in existence, I’ve met many customers who have now become friends. As a people person, I’m providing a service that customers want but I also enjoy the fact that my customers keep coming back. For the future I hope to see Katwalk expanding into menswear.
Katwalk
Llanharry, Vale of Glamorgan 10 minutes from Cowbridge and 5 minutes from Pontyclun Please phone Helen Pick to make an appointment on 01443 225482 Mobile 07973 463460
helenpick@yahoo.co.uk
www.katwalk.co.uk (arriving soon)
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