she said…


I’m so inspired by other women and their success. I want to know what drives them, what interests them, what makes every day worth it! When I met Nicola Gillam from Violet Hill I knew she was going to be our first “she said…” girl! The moment I walked into her stunning clothing boutique I knew I wanted to know how her mind works! Her personality was fresh and unique, bringing a cool and comfortable vibe to her store!  The perfect way to shop!

Not to mention that every singe item she carries is stunning! Her boutique is filled with my favourite designers (including Canadian!).  Plus you won’t be spending an arm and a leg  for high fashion labels! The prices are just right! Here’s a little bit of what “she said…”

Oh… and she carries bfrend bracelets! Another reason to check out her store! 🙂

1. Why did you decide to open a clothing boutique?

Violet Hill came about over a couple of beers with my parents after I graduated from UVIC in 2009. We we’re discussing how Steveston is changing and what the community could need and obviously I mentioned a boutique. It was always something I was passionate about and wanted to do but I thought it was just a pipe dream. Luckily though I had amazing support and was able to slowly and surely make Violet Hill something real.
 

2. What would you say to other girls who are considering doing the same thing?

If I can do it then you can too! It takes a lot of time and isn’t something that just happens over night. If it’s something you really want to do then you can make it work. There are a lot of people and resources out there that can help you make sense of it all. Also owning your own boutique isn’t just all about the pretty clothes that line the racks. You have to be able to understand the business side of it and be able to put in the hours and hard work. It’s not like a fashion realty show, even though sometime I wish it were.

3. What’s the best part of your job?

The best part about my job is that I get to do something everyday that I’m excited and passionate about. I’m always learning and hopefully growing the business in a positive direction. I also have the most amazing customers who I’m lucky to have formed relationships with. Making my customers happy and excited about their wardrobe and clothes is something that I love.

4. If you could style one person in the whole world who would it be? And what would you put them in?

Emma Stone. I have a major girl crush on her! I think she has amazing style and would be open to trying anything. I’d love to put her in a Canadian label like Valerie Dumaine that the public might not have seen before. Her designs would look great on her.

5. Favourite Vaca Spot?

Paris is fantastic. I don’t think there’s anything like it. But then again I haven’t done a lot of travelling so my answer could change. It would be hard to beat though.

6. Favourite book?

Lovely Bones and then The Help is a close second. Both of Kelly Cutrone’s books are up there too.

7. Favourite place to eat in Vancouver?

Pepitas! It’s this amazing little Mexican place on the corner of West 4th and Burrard. I’m obsessed.

8. Daily blog reads?

The Man Repeller, The Coveteur, The Doctors Closet, StyleSpy, Imtheitgirl, Searching for Style, and Paper Collective just to name a few that I’m obsessed with.

9. Where would you like to see yourself in 5 years?

I really hope to see myself watching Violet Hill grow and be a success. I can’t imagine myself not being in Vancouver working in the industry that I am. I believe that the Vancouver Fashion scene is slowly but surely growing and I would like to be a part of that.

10. What are 5 things you can’t leave the house without??

Wallet. Sunglasses. iphone 4. Elizabeth and James stackable rings (they are pretty much stuck on my finger but I’m happy to never have to take them off). make up bag with mascara and Make Up HD foundation

Visit Violet Hill

#108-12211 No.1 Road
Richmond, BC V7E 1T6

Phone: (604) 274-3563
eMail: [email protected]