We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Valencia Holland. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Valencia below.
Valencia, appreciate you joining us today. Can you tell us about a time where you or your team really helped a customer get an amazing result?
Talk about the power of social media. I had a woman reach out to me who was interested in my services because she found me on Instagram. She booked a consultation and immediately opted into the styling package I recommended would get her the results she was looking for. My client had gotten to a place where it was becoming hard for her to pick out outfits that complimented her body shape. Shopping was a challenge and she didn’t like the way clothes fit. During our first few sessions, I took time to get to know her. This is an important step as an Image Consultant because as women we are more than our clothes . We all have personalities, like, dislikes, etc. Doing this would also ensure I incorporated those things while developing her personal style moving forward. It’s very important to me for my clients to look and dress like the individuals they are. Not myself or any other client I’ve worked with. After that, I spent time educating her on what her body shape was, what that meant for her, and how to build her wardrobe based around that along with her lifestyle. After a few short weeks my client gained a clear understanding of what to look for while shopping. She applied everything I taught her and shopping has been a lot easier for her because she knows what to look for. Upon completion of our sessions she also shared that she enjoys shopping now because she is much more confident. She also told me she was pleased with my services and happy that she hired me to help her.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
Sure. My name is Valencia Holland, Certified Image Consultant also know as The Style Educator. Before I Founded my business I was the go-to girl for my friends and family when they wanted advice on what to wear as well as what not to wear. After years of helping them I discovered that what I was doing passionately could be done on a professional level and I decided to invest in myself and start a business. My services provide image and wardrobe solutions for women who are confused about how to dress for their body shape, age, lifestyle, and more. 2024 will be my 12th year in business and they say most new businesses don’t make past the first year. So, the fact that I have had the pleasure of serving women from all walks of life over the years is a blessing and I’m proud of that!
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
When the pandemic hit, I was scared. It was my first time being uncertain about my business and what would happen next. Things were going really great for me and when we had to shelter in place I initially didn’t know what to do. I took sometime to calm down and I told myself I could give up or pivot. Giving up was never an option so once I pulled myself together I began to brainstorm and figure out how could I offer my services during this time. Pivoting was intimidating initially because I always worked with my clients in person. I really enjoy interacting with clients face to face and being hands on with their wardrobe. I realized that I was comfortable with my daily operations and going virtual seemed impossible. During my time brainstorming I remembered a client from 2104 that I had worked with via FaceTime. I searched my files and found parts of how I managed that client and began to rebuild. I eventually developed my Virtual Styling Package and after that launched that service with a marketing strategy that would bring in clients so after. Even though we are a years out from 2020 I found that this pivot was one of the best things that could have happened to my business. It opened the door for women who wanted to work with my but couldn’t because they lived in other states and as a Stay at home Mom it also allowed me to continue doing something I truly love.
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
I love this question. I believe the biggest thing is authenticity. I never wanted to meet someone online and if we meet face to face they feel like I’m a different person. Be yourself, that is what will attract your audience. Being who you are make it so much easier to create and share content. Now in days people including myself are tired of seeing people look and sound the same, if you know what I mean. I would recommend being consistent and when I say that I mean you should define what consistency is for you. Some people can post all day everyday while others may only be able to do a few days a week. Lastly, add value! People love to learn so try to educate your audience as much as you can on your products or services, etc. Remember people by from who they know, like, and trust.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.valenciaholland.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thestyleeducator/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheStyleEducator
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valenciaholland/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thestyleeducator
Image Credits
I own the rights to use the photos I provided