Today we’d like to introduce you to Melanie Mueller Prince.
Melanie, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
While obtaining my MBA from Emory University, I had the opportunity to work with the Marketing & Business Development group for Zac Posen in New York City. The experience not only confirmed my love for fashion, but my time in the City also made me realize that our marketplace is oversaturated with one-size-fits-all merchandise. In many ways, I felt fashion was stripping us of our individuality by dressing us all the same. I knew I could do better, and I became determined to create a line that inspired people to use fashion, not as a means to fit in, but as a way to boldly celebrate all of what makes each of us inherently unique and beautiful.
I laid the groundwork for the business during my last semester at Emory, and officially launched Mel Boteri with the first collection of handbags in the fall of 2009. Our current focus is selling direct to consumer through our online presence as well as seasonal, private trunk shows. We most recently launched a B2B model where we partner with corporations looking to offer a unique, luxury gifting and incentives experience for their top clients and employees.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The fashion industry is extremely competitive with talented new designers entering the marketplace on a daily basis. Luxury fashion, more specifically, is very brand-name driven so the most challenging aspect of my career to date has been building brand awareness for Mel Boteri. However, because I am driven by challenges this is also one of the most exciting aspects of my career with each new client, product placement, or industry recognition as proof of my efforts.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Mel Boteri – what should we know?
Mel Boteri creates bold yet refined leather handbags and accessories designed exclusively for each client. I am most proud of my unwavering dedication to quality, which not only extends to the finished product but also to every step along the way, from the origin of the materials to our after-sales service. I personally source the finest European leathers, fabrics, and hardware for my collections, all of which are handcrafted in the Mediterranean region of Alicante, Spain.
From personalization, customization, and bespoke, we offer different levels of individualized service so that every client, both big and small, can create their perfect leather accessory.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Everyone has their own opinions on how to run a business, and so I think the most important characteristic is self-awareness and knowing where your personal strengths lie while staying super focused on your own vision.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.melboteri.com
- Phone: 404-259-9196
- Email: melanie@melboteri.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/melboteri
- Facebook: facebook.com/melboteri
- Twitter: twitter.com/melboteri
Image Credit:
Red and Yellow Bag Shots: Hannah Kraus Photography, http://www.hannahkraus.com/
Mel and Python Bag Shot: Acquille Dunkley Designs, http://adunkleydesigns.com/
