Today’s Guest
MARY ERNST MCCOLGAN
Today, I am joined by someone special, Mary Ernst McColgan, designer and curator, owner of Rose Bredl Flower & Garden shop in downtown Columbus, Ohio. Mary has a background in retail and design marketing working for Estee Lauder and Abercrombie & Fitch. Her retail studio is an extension of Mary’s life, a curated floral based lifestyle reflecting the East Coast, American roots and sophistication. The shop is a reflection of her experiences and travels, allowing her to accentuate her personal style – preppy, natural and classic.
Mary’s journey from corporate retail as a district manager to entrepreneur is one you are going to want to hear. We are talking about chasing dreams, building teams, and blooming – literally and figuratively – right where you are planted. Let’s dig in!
To learn more about Running Great Stores, visit us at https://runninggreatstores.com or email Rachel directly at ****@****************es.com” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener nofollow”>Ra****@****************es.com.
Listen to The Full Episode
Key Takeaways:
Thinking About Opening Your Own Retail Shop? Start Here.
Before you take the leap into retail ownership, make sure you’ve done your homework. Here are five must-haves to set yourself up for success:
Build a Solid Business Plan
Don’t let this intimidate you—every great business starts with a clear plan. (Tip: Tools like ChatGPT can help you map it out!)Choose the Right Location
Location still matters—but so does affordability. Look for a space that makes financial sense and attracts your ideal customer.Define Your Brand
Know exactly who you are, what you stand for, and how you’ll stand out from the competition. Your differentiator is your superpower.Prioritize the Customer Experience
What will keep customers coming back? Think beyond product—consider service, atmosphere, and those memorable touches.Build Your Support Network
Surround yourself with people who will give you honest advice, cheer you on, and help you grow. You don’t have to do it alone.
Resources Mentioned
- Shop Rose Bredl Flower & Garden Shop (664 N. High St, Columbus, OH)
- Connect with Rachel Williamson
- Ra****@****************es.com
- https://www.linkedin.com/runninggreatstores
- Call her at 614-601-1641
