What I’ve Learned: Diane Harris

Retailers tend to feel that if it’s working, why change
it? So, you will always see the same designers in the exact
same spots in the store. I have learned that when the same
food is on the menu, boredom sets in. Every visit to my store
is a different experience with a dose of familiarity. I like to
challenge my customers’ senses. You walk in the door and
it feels like home and then you turn around and “pow!” I
hear this a lot: “What’s different?” “Has the store always
been this color?” I am all about evolving. I tweak my décor
by adding a new chair or display case. The store’s signature
scent is different each visit. I add new designers monthly.
The packaging changes twice a year. I want people to come
in because they know it will be a visit filled with discovery. It
takes more work to keep the “fresh factor” up but I live for
the chance to go to shows and discover the next new thing. — Diane Harris, My House of Style, Birmingham, MI

This article originally appeared in the June 2016 edition of INSTORE.