A unique fashion shopping service has just been launched by new start up Margie & Doll. Via a pop up boutique, Margie & Doll bring the personal service associated with a high end boutique to customers in a venue of their choice, but with affordably priced brands.
Margie & Doll launched their pop up service at an event at Hylands House in Chelmsford. The launch of the new brand was attended by customers, fashion bloggers and members of the press.
"It's a much more personal service and it's about helping people feel good about themselves. What could be better than shopping the latest trends whilst surrounded by friends and a bottle of wine."
Nikki Da Costa-Smith, Margie & Doll founder
Why Margie & Doll came to the Essex Innovation Programme
Margie & Doll had developed their business to a certain point when they met Essex County Council’s Essex Innovation Programme (EIP). They had forecasts and target customers in place but felt they needed legal advice and help in building their brand. EIP helped Margie & Doll develop their business idea by assigning the company one of their professional business mentors.
"Two things stood out. We liked her new approach to buying and she had the passion and the skill set to see it through."
EIP business mentor on Margie & Doll founder, Nikki Da Costa-Smith
Launching the brand with funded assistance
The EIP mentor worked with Margie & Doll to map out opportunities to grow and develop the company in the lead up to the launch. EIP has also been working with Margie & Doll on their branding, digital marketing and website.
About Margie & Doll
Margie & Doll aims to fill a gap between the High Street and online shopping. The launch party at Hylands House included a catwalk show which showcased the independent brands they stock such as Traffic People, Charlise, Pink Flam, Rinascimento and Pia Rossini.
"How many times have you taken something back after online shopping? Or, when have you received no service at all when walking into a shop? I think it's really important to build trust and confidence, and to give people genuine advice. It's not about getting something cheap, it's about seeing what people really want."
Nikki Da Costa-Smith, Margie & Doll founder
Future plans
Since the launch Margie & Doll have been approached by Made in Essex magazine to write a regular piece for them. Within five years Margie & Doll hope to have franchises across the UK and develop their own label. EIP will continue to work with Margie & Doll to provide further support for the company’s expansion plans.
About the Essex Innovation Programme
The Essex Innovation Programme works with established companies and small businesses to help them to develop, and take to market, innovative products and services.
Source [Essex Chronicle]
See here for more information about EIP.
