Laura Garrett

• Founded and successfully operated a professional organizing business serving residential clients.
• Created customized organization systems for homes, offices, and storage spaces.
• Managed all aspects of business operations, including scheduling, budgeting, invoicing, marketing, inventory management, and client communications.
• Coordinated multiple projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines and client expectations.
• Led client consultations, translating needs into actionable plans while maintaining strong relationships throughout projects.

• Trained, coached, and mentored five team members on customer service best practices and company procedures.
• Built strong relationships with customers through personalized service and product knowledge.
• Assisted with inventory management and merchandising to be compliant with brand standards.
• Trained new team members on customer experience expectations and sales techniques.
• Analyzed customer feedback and identified opportunities to improve service and retention.
• Presented Southern Tide Men’s and Women’s clothing line at trade shows to potential and current customers.

• Empowered clients with confidence through fee-based consulting services.
• Created wardrobe designs in conjunction with closet organization and personal shopping services.
• Hosted boutique-like events to resell clients’ designer apparel and handbags.

• Initiated new business opportunities with existing and non-existing clients.
• HSBC Key Player Awards (Top Product Sales for Region) in 2006: February, March, June, July, October, November.

• Generated $268,000 in sales for web-based solution in 2004.
• Initiated new business opportunities in the banking and credit union industry by cold calls, marketing, and presenting Strohl Systems’ web-based, business continuity planning software to senior management.

• Led sales product presentations to Fortune 100 executives.
• Conducted 500+ hours of training sessions for customers.
• Presented to large groups of 100+ at industry trade shows.
• Developed and executed presentations, created proposals, and negotiated with Executive Management to close new business opportunities.

• Assisted in product development, inventory, and quality control programs.
• Communicated with Divisional Managers and Buyer on product evaluation and resolved outstanding operational issues.
• Reduced product issues through corporate office to store manager communication, store visits, and warehouse inspections.
• Developed and maintained successful relationships with vendors, and prospective vendors, to ensure competitive pricing and diversified product assortment.

• Youngest manager ever to open and operate a new store for Betsey Johnson branded stores.
• Managed five sales associates necessary to exceed monthly sales goals.

• Worked directly with Betsey Johnson and Fabric Buyer to create the pieces for upcoming lines.
• Worked with Pattern Makers and Dress Makers to ensure fabrics worked with silhouettes.
• Created story boards and attended all meetings between designers and Betsey Johnson.

June–August 1999