We had the good fortune of connecting with Paige Richardson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Paige, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
After climbing the corporate ladder for almost two decades, I had made it to the top and looked around and realized I wanted more. I wanted to create something that was my own and be able in twenty years from now know that I took a risk and didn’t let the time pass me by without taking action.

Once I walked away from the corporate world (my most recent role was serving as SVP of Merchandising for Belk, a southern based department store), I realized there was a white space opportunity for modern women wanting to look and feel their best- and they were wanting support to bring that to life. While I was in the retail world, one thing rang true no matter where in the world I was: women wanted to feel good and that translated to how they felt when they looked in the mirror. So I decided to make that my mission : help women Elevate their Everyday.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I definitely wouldn’t say it was easy, but the common theme was that I never took no for an answer.
Starting from when I was in college, after being told no when I wanted to pursue a career in fashion, I decided to wait tables while at university in order to fund an unpaid internship in NYC in fashion…that choice led to a merchandising roles at Abercrombie & Fitch, Macy’s, and ultimately Belk, where I went from a buyer to SVP over the course of 9 years.
Over that time in retail, I was fortunate to have some amazing mentors along the way. Everyone needs guidance and a sounding board, and that wasn’t lost on me. The power of human connection is real.

That experience ultimately brought me to starting Paige Richardson Styling, with the goal of taking what I had learned buying for the masses to bring a more curate, bespoke approach to individuals looking to feel their best. I identified a white space for women looking to elevate their everyday look, and that is why I started this styling business. I pull together customized wardrobe edits for today’s woman via a digital lookbook after we have a live session (either in person or on FaceTime) to determine what in their closet does/doesnt serve them and what shapes flatter their specific body style.
It has been highly rewarding – and I now understand what people mean when they speak to “blood, sweat and tears” going into those early days of launching a business.

Looking back, I am the most proud that I actually took the jump and walked away. It would have been much easier to just stay. But then I would have always looked back and thought “what if?”

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would have to dedicate my shoutout to three groups:
First, my parents – they taught me anything is possible with a plan. That has stayed with me my entire life, and I contribute much of my success to living by that guiding principle!

Secondly, my husband Chris – he had been the sole entrepreneur in our family, so there was definitely some faith and trust on his part when I chose to walk away from the career I had built. He was my biggest cheerleader from day 1.

Lastly, to the women who I have been lucky enough to be surrounded by as an adult, who lifted me up when I was terrified taking this new step in life. Let’s be real – walking away from a successful career and choosing to make a complete 180 degree change as a small business owner sounds insane to most. But it was the best decision of my life, and I will never be able to thank the women who were there for me in those early days of self doubt. You know who you are!

Website: https://www.paigerichardsonstyling.com

Instagram: @paigerichardsonstyling

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paige-richardson-5995365

Image Credits
Amanda Anderson Photography
Laurel Belle Branding and Photography

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