At The Complete Boutique, we have the opportunity of working with some pretty amazing and inspiring retailers.

Today, we’re highlighting the owner of a women’s lifestyle boutique.

Jovana Nedimovic created UNI+KONCEPT to be a welcoming space for testing out the latest in beauty and fashion trends.

She is on a mission to provide a unique, aesthetically-pleasing, inclusive experience for customers shopping in her boutique.

Learn more about Jo and her retail business below!

How long have you been in business?

3 years (since 2016).

What was life like before opening your store?

I was a Sr. Merchandise Specialist at Target Canada HQ when they suddenly announced they were closing all of the stores and everyone was being laid off. I decided to take some time off to travel and reflect on what my next steps would be.

What inspired you to open a women’s lifestyle boutique?

I always wanted to be my own boss in some capacity. Mostly for the flexibility to come and go as I please and create my own schedule. However, my boutique started out of necessity for a place to shop. It was never my goal to own a store, it just kind of happened!

What do you wish someone would have told you before you started your business?

• That you have to know a little bit about everything.
• Don’t wait too long to launch (because if you snooze, you lose). Better to be the first one to launch and re-adjust than to wait until everything is perfect. Nothing is ever perfect.
• You’ll never be everyone’s cup of tea. Don’t take it to heart if someone doesn’t like you or your products, because there are other people who will LOVE IT.

What is the accomplishment in your business that you are most proud of?

I am most proud of the relationships I’ve cultivated with my customers. They trust me and genuinely enjoy the experience I’ve created for them. I’m also very proud of my new location under Shopify HQ, which I was able to afford after 2 years of hustling.

What is the most important lesson you’ve learned in your business?

• Pick your battles.
• Common sense isn’t common.
• Never assume! You never know how much someone is going to spend at your store, so don’t base the experience you provide on their “look”. Give everyone the best experience and make sure they walk away feeling amazing.

What are some of the most important qualities you look for when hiring employees?

PERSONALITY! It can’t be taught. I like to just have a casual conversation before getting into any questions.. Experience helps for sure, but don’t just look for retail experience. Maybe they were a waitress before, which ties into the experiential aspect of your boutique.

What is your number one piece of advice for other retailers?

Make sure all of your staff have product knowledge. Frequently test them. It will make the customers feel better about purchasing from them and it will make your staff feel more confident knowing the products.

How has Sales Crusher Blueprint helped you succeed?

It has helped tremendously in identifying who the customers are. People are unique and should be treated as such. I also loved the tips on different ways to greet someone and create an overall great experience.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?

Give everyone the best experience and make sure they walk away feeling amazing, whether they are buying something or not. Leave a good impression. Word-of-mouth advertising is invaluable. … Also, social media advertising is free and super effective. Take a course on it if you’re not sure how to use it.

Connect with Jovana on Instagram, Facebook, or her site!

To learn more about Sales Crusher Blueprint and grow YOUR business, register for our FREE retail sales masterclass