Q&A with Marcy Collins

Marcy Collins

Collins Fashions

What inspired you to start your business or pursue your current career path?

In 1980, my late husband Grover and I opened the Kids Count Too retail store in East Wenatchee, during a challenging economic downturn. Later, we both accepted management roles with JC Penney, which allowed us to continue working together in a new capacity.

How has your initial vision evolved since you started?

Our initial vision of business ownership has shifted. After closing our store, we found new paths in management that offered stability and growth opportunities.

What's the biggest challenge you've faced as a woman in your industry, and how did you overcome it?

After losing my husband in 2009, during a period of economic recession, I found myself at a crossroads. Balancing family and business, I became responsible for managing, buying, and overseeing daily operations.

How do you think these challenges have changed in your industry?

While my personal challenges didn’t necessarily change the industry, the rise of e-commerce has significantly transformed how people shop, impacting traditional retail and requiring a shift to meet customers’ changing expectations.

Describe a pivotal moment in your career that shaped your leadership style.

A defining moment was recognizing the true value of customer service. I learned to listen carefully to my customers and serve as their personal shopper, tailoring each experience to their unique preferences.

How would you describe your leadership style now?

My leadership style is open, welcoming, and relaxed. I believe in greeting everyone warmly, inviting both new and returning customers to feel comfortable and valued in our store.

How do you balance your professional responsibilities with your personal life?

I’ve learned the importance of setting a schedule, “clocking in and out,” to ensure personal time. Managing my personal time has become just as crucial as managing business hours.

What strategies or support systems have you found most helpful?

Rather than chasing trends, I focus on providing beautiful, quality clothing for the women of North Central Washington. My dedicated team is an outstanding support system. They understand the importance of creating a positive, welcoming shopping experience, not only for women but for men shopping for the women in their lives.

What advice would you give young women aspiring to enter your field?

I’d encourage young women to plan carefully, expecting it may take a few years to turn a profit. If you have a young family, consider working with a partner to share responsibilities. Planning and patience are key to success!

What do you wish someone had told you when you were starting?

I wish someone had emphasized the importance of patience and resilience. In the early stages of my career, I often felt pressure to achieve immediate success. However, I’ve learned that growth takes time and that setbacks can be valuable learning experiences. I would advise newcomers to embrace challenges, seek mentorship, and understand that every step—whether a success or a stumble—contributes to their journey.

How has mentorship played a role in your career as a mentee or mentor?

My husband has been a significant mentor and partner throughout my career. I actively engage in training and mentoring my team, fostering a collaborative environment where we learn from one another.

How do you approach mentoring others in your current position?

I focus on always putting our best foot forward for our customers, emphasizing the importance of service excellence in everything we do.

What strategies have you found most effective for building and maintaining professional networks?

I have cultivated strong relationships with my advertisers and continuously work to enhance my presence on social media platforms.

How has networking changed with the rise of social media and digital platforms?

Networking has become more accessible and immediate, allowing for a broader reach and the ability to connect with industry leaders and peers in real time.

In your experience, what key skills or qualities have contributed most to your success?

Placing our customers first has been pivotal to my success.

How do you continue to develop these skills?

I focus on building strong relationships with my associates and staying current with technological advancements in our field.

How do you stay innovative and adapt to changes in your industry?

Many of my manufacturers have adopted platforms that streamline reordering and special orders, which enhances our service to customers.

Share an example of how you've successfully navigated a major industry shift.

I have embraced these new platforms to improve efficiency and customer satisfaction, effectively adapting our processes to align with industry changes.

What initiatives or changes would you like to see to promote gender equality in the business world?

I believe we are all equal in the eyes of God, and I would like to see more initiatives that reflect this belief in the workplace.

How do you personally contribute to advancing these initiatives?

I strive to honor and care for all individuals, promoting an inclusive culture that values diversity.