As the founder and CEO of Out of Town, my role is constantly evolving. I started by working on the sales floor daily and being very hands-on in operations. Now, I’ve transitioned more into the CEO role, leading a team of over 30 women. I get to do what I love—being the visionary for our company while guiding our team toward achieving our goals. I also handle most of the buying, which is one of my favorite parts. We specialize in offering a variety of brands that are unique to our area and used to require a trip “out of town.” When customers shop with us, we strive to provide a welcoming environment that feels like shopping with friends. Shopping doesn’t have to be hard!
What challenges have you faced as a woman in business, and how have you overcome them?
One of my biggest challenges as a woman in business has been learning to juggle my career with my roles as a mom and wife. I have a lot of passion for what I do, and I love my work, so running Out of Town became a whole different ballgame once we added two little boys. It’s common for women to feel “mom guilt” when trying to balance a demanding career while being there for their families, and I have friends who deal with similar struggles. Traveling for the market and missing out on things during the holiday season, when the hours are longer, is something I am constantly navigating. I keep focused on the bigger picture and show my boys what hard work and dedication can achieve. I hope they will appreciate it someday and use the tools we’ve taught them to follow their own passions. I try to do something special with them or spend extra time with them before I leave for our market trips to maintain balance.
Always know your worth, and don’t let anyone make you feel that you aren’t equal. Speak confidently and fight for what you deserve.”
How do you balance business with your personal life, and what advice would you give to women trying to achieve this balance?
Giving up control when you own a business is a tough thing to do. As I was working through this, a business coach of mine told me that if someone can do something at 80% of what I can, that should be considered a win. I have learned to give up control and trust in my team, which has been the biggest blessing, allowing me to achieve a better work-life balance.
“As my kids have gotten older, I’ve had more time to get involved in the community by joining a Female Founders Group, being a member of the Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC, and fundraising for local organizations like the Dakota Children’s Advocacy Center. We also partner with local businesses for window displays, custom print jobs, employee gifts, handy work, and more. It’s fun to see how we all can support each other and keep this community thriving.”
Out of Town Clothing
outoftownclothing.com
[email protected]
Facebook | /ShopOutofTown
Instagram | @ShopOutofTown
Kirkwood Mall, Bismarck Location
628 Kirkwood Mall
Bismarck, ND 58504
The Market, Dickinson Location
1750 Market Dr, Suite G
Dickinson, ND 58601