Today we’d like to introduce you to Jes Peterson.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’ve always been a retail gal with an entrepreneurial spirit. One of my first jobs was at Vanity back in the 90’s, I learned a lot about fashion and visual merchandising. Then followed a series of other retail gigs, Wilson’s Leather, a gift shop, an adult bookstore, JCP, TJMaxx, and Pier One where i found my passion for furniture. I tried a little service work, hostess, server and bartending, I quickly learned that kind of service was not for me. I have three children and needed a “real” job and I found myself in banking career for 10 years. I made a lot of connections and enjoyed my time, but as the kids grew up I was bored of the stability. I’ve had many ideas, written several business plans but the timing was never right, and I gave up. Then came my kismet (it’s meant to be) moment, literally. Penny the owner of Kismet Consignment asked me if I would be interested in purchasing the business, who says no to kismet? It’s now been almost 4 years and we have grown and expand our brand to menswear, gift and bridal consignment.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The transition was brutal, turns out when you buy a 20 year turnkey business the patrons are skeptical. I had no clue what I had gotten myself into. Not only did I purchase the business I purchased 4 buildings and a parking lot. Now I am a landlord, janitor, leader, worker, payroll, taxes, decision maker and handyman. Thank goodness the business also came with an amazing team of ladies who knew what to do and they trained me well.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Kismet is a women’s consignment boutique known for quality brands, fair pricing and stellar merchandising. We specialize in ladies fashion, shoes, purses, jewelry as well as furniture, decor in both modern and vintage styles. What sets us apart from others is we have an entire block of consignment shops and thrift. As you move through the different shops you can feel the heartbeat of each section. Within our brand we have something for everyone and welcome all to enjoy our store. A great place for retail therapy, good tunes, excellent customer service and a great way to recycle your wardrobe.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Getting out in your community and meeting people is key, it’s all about who you know. Make sure to be top of mind when people think about your type of business. Find a life coach to help you navigate difficult questions, they can offer you guidance through things that your friend circle cannot. Networking groups and events are great for meeting new people and gives you an opportunity to tell your story, make it a good one.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kismetconsignment.biz/
- Instagram: kismet_consignment
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KismetConsignment
- Other: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584610732305
