We had the good fortune of connecting with Diane Treganza and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Diane, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
Most people think the role of a Personal Shopper- Stylist is all glamourous and you spend your day shopping. Although the shopping part is accurate (although it’s a different experience when it’s for someone else). What people don’t understand is the ‘psychological’ role you take on with your clients. You become the clients confidante, friend and most importantly- a trusted figure with their personal information. They (clients) share their anxiety and issues -about body parts they dislike-, their secrets (divorce, children, jobs)- all in strict confidence. Your role is to listen and encourage them to feel their BEST; be their most successful and Sexiest- through their wardrobe. I love seeing my clients shine when they put on something I suggested for them- it’s the biggest reward/pay back!
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I am the owner of my own company- Miami Personal & Corporate Styling. I am based in Miami Beach, Florida but have clients throughout the USA and in Canada. My company started in late 2018- after I left my role as The Personal Shopper for Bloomingdales, Aventura FLA. My biggest challenge starting out was the fear of whether my clients would follow me/continue to work with me on my own. What I learned was that my clients that were loyal – were loyal due to my work ethic (any time/all the time- no clothing emergency is too big or small) AND my strict code of confidentiality. They could trust me which you can’t ‘buy’ at a department store wherever one is trying to make their commission (note; Personal Shoppers were salaried). The ‘fear of not having clients, pushed me to think about the type of clients I wanted and to go after them.. In particular I was focused (pre-covid) on Corporate businessmen and women- lawyers, banking/finance. Since Covid, I have shifted my focus to ‘casual elegance’ dressing, as well as zoom call outfitting. Change is good! I have had to hustle, attend every networker/meet and greet, social event in Miami and surrounding areas to meet new clients- you cannot give up!
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Since it’s Miami- anywhere outdoors is my fav spot for food and drink.. I don’t like to frequent the ‘trendy spots’ but prefer more local cool hangouts such as in the Upper Buena Vista neighborhood, Design District. And I love tacos at Tacquiza on the 74th street boardwalk. If I am going to dress up- you can’t beat cocktails at The Setai or Four Seasons Surfside. The beach at South Pointe has the bluest water so I would start there, followed by Happy Hour at Santorini by Georgios restaurant at the Bentley Hotel.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Shout out to Christine Perrin-Stocco, successful mother/wife/business owner who has encouraged and promoted my business. Her email is: christine.perrin-stocco@n2pub.com
Website: www.miamistyling.com
Instagram: miamistyling_bydiane
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianetreganza/