Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Maddy Mandon. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Maddy, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today So, let’s start with a hypothetical – what would you change about the educational system?

While building and running Disco Decorum, I also teach 5th-grade math and science in a New Orleans public school. Educational experiences vary so wildly across our country that effectively defining a fulfilling life & career for students requires a deep understanding of the many variants among communities. Socioeconomic access can place different lenses on defining success. Students must be exposed to different definitions of success and choices to truly participate. Through my experience with Disco Decorum, I have been able to use skills & strengths that traditional education did not allow space for me to try. Teachers can support students in pursuing a fulfilling life & career by creating space for students to be their authentic selves. Developing an understanding of self will foster genuine career paths.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My name is Maddy and my favorite title I’ve worn is sister. Growing up, my little sister and I loved to play dress up and pretend. Including our favorite prince, my little brother. We always had a dress-up box and sometimes my mom would let us wear those items to school, we were so excited. As I got older sharing clothes or styling my friends became so much fun. Figuring out outfits that would be flattering and fun for them was exciting for both of us. Seeing their confidence glow was the true beauty! Then, I was introduced to the creative energy that is, New Orleans. Whether it’s Mardi Gras, happy hour, or hanging in the backyard, you can feel the disco magic. Through the trust and support of my NOLA community, I jumped into creating and styling. With every decision and new connection, I have prioritized maintaining the organic joy of playing dress-up for all bodies & all lovers. Disco Decorum clothing is a curated assortment of size-inclusive vintage, up-cycled, and second-hand clothing. We also offer disco accessories ranging from earrings to one-of-a-kind bucket hats. Disco home is the category that grew from the original creation, the Disco Nutcracker. I began selling Disco Nutcrackers for Christmas through social media. This quickly gained attention from the eclectic New Orleans community. Building on this momentum I was able to launch disco lighters, cases, and disco ball earrings. During this time, I was building out my clothing collection. I would use the money from the accessories to develop other inventory. Once I was ready, I began applying to markets across the city. Currently, Disco Decorum has at least 4-5 in-person events a month and a brand-new website. I am super excited to offer the website to the growing online community. Through the support & beauty of the team, we have been able to show off pieces and invite you all to get to know the brand. Disco decorum would not have grown without the team. My sister crochets purses and contributes to second-hand sourcing. My best friend from college upcycles, designs, and curates vintage clothing. My New Orleans community has dreamed alongside, modeled, danced, designed, and sourced with me every step of the way. As we continue to grow through creative collaboration, we invite all bodies & all lovers to come find their next favorite thing they own!

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

A resource that impacted my entrepreneurial thinking was Taylor Swift’s album, Midnights. She continues to redefine her own personal success without abiding by anyone’s rules or expectations. Listening to Midnights made this message loud and clear to me. Audiences are going to find a reason to be bothered and as creators, we can absorb this feedback or we can commit to our vision. Taylor commits to her vision and delivers every time. I listened to Bejeweled at least ten times a day when the album came out. My Spotify wrapped exposed me. Anytime I doubt my vision, I tell myself “Best believe I’m still bejeweled, When I walk in the room, I can still make the whole place shimmer.” And I want to build a community of customers that believe this about themselves as well. Ideally, reminded they are bejeweled when wearing their favorite piece from the shop.

Any thoughts, advice, or strategies you can share for fostering brand loyalty?

We keep in touch with clients through social media. Once customers connect with Disco Decorum through the algorithm or an in-person event, we encourage a follow. Currently, the most accessible way to introduce new content or inventory is through posting. Clients can ask questions, interact, or order online. All shipments receive a handwritten note to thank them for their support. As a growing small business, each purchase makes a difference and we appreciate each and every one. Through pop-ups or styling, we establish an inclusive space to explore your style & confidence.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://discodecorum.squarespace.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/discodecorum/