Today we’d like to introduce you to Simone Killoren.
Hi Simone, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Scarlet Macaw has been open in Venice, FL since 1993! We enjoy supplying locals & visitors alike with fashionable women’s wear. Scarlet Macaw features quality women’s clothing, and proudly carries sizes XS – XL along with plus sizes 1X – 3X. We are known for our customer service, bright and colorful clothing, and happy environment. We treasure our customers and pride ourselves on friendly service, excellent selection, and affordable pricing. A large selection of our clothing is hand painted by local artists; many of these artists only paint for our store so you cannot find them anywhere else! It is also important to us to carry a large selection of made in the USA clothing for customers who enjoy proudly wearing the USA made labels.
When Scarlet Macaw opened it was owned by Peggy Matsko. In 2014 her niece Simone Killoren took over and ultimately purchased the family business from her aunt. Every year on or near November 1 Scarlet Macaw hosts a “store birthday party” with cake, giveaways, prizes and fun all day to celebrate another year of wonderful customer support. Customer service helps us stand out as our staff is here to help you pack a suitcase for a cruise, select a new wardrobe after weight changes, or just find something new to make you smile. From the bright and welcoming store to the fun and happy clothes Scarlet Macaw is a place to feel good and look great too!
Alright, 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?
We are fortunate that the only major struggles have passed. Covid was a challenge but didn’t stop us – it gave us time to get a website going! And road construction out front one year slowed us down some but as soon as the construction was over we carried right on! Scarlet Macaw has a very loyal customer base and we are fortunate for their support.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
We are proud of our Give Back items – any item sold featuring a dog or cat results in a 10% donation to the Humane Society of Sarasota County. Any items sold that feature marine life result in a 10% (of the sale price) donation to Mote Marine.
We specialize in comfortable and colorful clothing that you can wear every day and feel good in. Our sizes range from XS – 3X and all of our wonderful staff members can help people pick out something that will fit and flatter perfectly. It all starts with a friendly hello when you step inside!
Our most popular and unique items are our hand-painted tops and sweaters. Most are painted locally and all of them feature artwork painted on the front and matching on the back as well.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
You can have the prettiest or most affordable clothes in town but if you don’t help your customers and show them their value they won’t return. We love helping our customers, remembering their names and fun stories we have shared. Little things like this help us to succeed – not just the great clothes and ideal location.
Pricing:
- Website – ScarletMacawofVenice.com
- Facebook – Facebook.com/ScarletMacawofVenice
- Phone – 941-483-3500
- Location – 225 W. Venice Ave, Venice 34285
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ScarletMacawofVenice.com
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/scarletmacawofvenice
