Inspiring mom audrey woollen of urbanic

Hello Audrey, We’re so happy to be able to hear about your life today. Before we dig into the details, perhaps you could briefly go through the process of getting from where you are today. I have always been a fan of a fascination for design and stationery. When I was a kid, there was always an overwhelming excitement in the ‘back to school’ time of the season when we would go shopping for school items. I loved spending my money on cards to give to family and friends. Also, all the small gadgets for my desk are from Sanrio. As a child, I developed an obsession with fashion. Following my graduation from college, I found myself working in the fashion industry in NYC and was employed at trade shows. I was enthralled by the speed of changing styles and designs and later moved to LA and continued working in the fashion world there. As a pastime, I started designing stationery as an extension of my style. I began selling my collection in LA in Farmer’s Markets and different venues and also in a handful of shops. I realized there was a market for my designs and also for the duration of other collections. In 2006, I decided to go public and opened Urbanic on Abbot Kinney Boulevard.
Okay, let’s dive more deeply into the tale – is it a smooth route overall? If not, What were the obstacles you’ve faced?
People have reacted well to Urbanic because of the niche-oriented boutique that it is. Because of social networks, the store has earned a reputable reputation worldwide and has become a popular shop in LA.
As with all businesses, there are plenty of pitfalls and tests to endure, as well as unpredictable twists and turns. Regarding some of these challenges, we’ve seen several break-ins, an unplanned IRS audit, and survived an economic downturn, but was struck internally by a gang of criminals, and then, of course, the pandemic that is sweeping the globe!
Let’s discuss business. Could you share with your readers more details about your business and what you believe makes you stand out from the rest?
Urbanic is a name-brand and niche boutique that specializes in carefully curated design. The store is known for the quality of its greeting cards, high-quality products for letterpress, fashionable wrapping papers, small presents as well as office supplies, and the latest version of our present box service. We also provide a unique gift wrap service that’s popular with our neighbors! At Urbanic, We are a source of thoughtfulness and lovely gifts that can be exchanged or delivered to brighten the day of someone else. Our business is growing in importance and significance due to the relationships we’ve developed throughout the years with our customers from across the globe. The place we’ve built is designed to be a welcoming, cheerful, and uplifting environment that celebrates the good things in life. Urbanic is more than a store. Many people consider it an experience that inspires joy and imagination. For us, it’s the core of what we’re about and what we continue to become. Our flagship location is in Venice, and we’ve recently opened our second store in The FreeMarket at PlayaVista.
Have you got any tips for those trying to build a network or locate an instructor?
For networking, I’ve found that forming bonds with and helping others who are designers and small business entrepreneurs from LA has been a great way to connect. LA neighborhood has enabled us to build to build a community of similar talents as well as friendships, partnerships, and collaborations. It also provides assistance and assistance. Social media certainly helps in all this, but interacting with others at events and social gatherings is how relationships are made.