Q&A WITH BRENDA MAREADY
Q:Why did you want to own your own business?
A: My youngest child was in high school and he was about to graduate, leaving us empty-nesters. We have a vacation home near Wilmington, and a favorite past-time of mine was shopping when we were there. One day I heard about a newly opened shoe boutique named Monkee’s. I went into the store and fell in love! I told my husband I really wanted to bring the concept back to Winston-Salem, and the rest is history! Reynolda Village is a very special place - the former estate of RJ Reynolds- and I thought it would be a beautiful setting for a small ladies boutique.
Q:What do you think are some of the benefits of being a store owner in your organization?
A: For me, it is the pleasure of meeting everyone involved in operating a Monkee’s boutique and watching their investment grow. They are such intelligent, exciting entrepreneurs. Also it is an advantage that we have a franchise of owners that share their buying experience and information.
Q: What is your #1 advice to new store owners?
Q: Why do you believe the Monkee’s organization continues to be successful?
A: Our incredibly hardworking Corporate team at Monkeee’s Franchising! They work for 6-12 months preparing a new store location and franchisee for opening. Representatives from the Corporate staff are on-site during the days leading up to Grand Opening, and then they work with owners on an ongoing basis to help with marketing and operations