Exploring Life & Business with Hazel Salomon of HazelsBagz & Apparel

Today we’d like to introduce you to Hazel Salomon.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My journey as a women’s retail small business owner has been both challenging and rewarding. I started HazelsBagz more than 20 years ago, and my path to where I am today has been influenced by my personal background and the determination that arose from my experiences as a political refugee from Nicaragua.

As a young child, I witnessed the turmoil and devastation caused by the civil war in my home country. Seeking safety and a better future, my family and I made the difficult decision to flee Nicaragua and seek refuge in the United States. Arriving in a new country as a political refugee was undoubtedly a daunting experience, but it instilled in me a resilient spirit and a relentless pursuit of opportunity.

As a single mother, I faced numerous challenges while trying to make ends meet. I wanted to create a better life not only for myself but also for my little girl. With limited resources but a strong drive to succeed, I decided to venture into the world of entrepreneurship. The idea of starting a women’s retail business sparked my interest, as I saw an opportunity to provide high-quality, stylish handbags that catered to the unique needs and preferences of women.

Starting HazelsBagz was not an easy task. I started small, operating out of my car with my daughter in her car seat and managing everything on my own. I dedicated countless hours to researching the market, understanding trends, and building relationships with suppliers. Through sheer determination and hard work, I began to establish a loyal customer base and gain recognition for the quality and uniqueness of my products.

Over the years, I have faced numerous hurdles, from financial constraints to fierce competition. However, each obstacle only fueled my determination to succeed and grew my faith in God. I continually sought ways to innovate and differentiate HazelsBagz from other retailers, whether through expanding my product range, enhancing customer service, or leveraging digital platforms to reach a wider audience.

Through persistence, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence, I have managed to grow HazelsBagz into a reputable and thriving travel boutique. Today, I am proud to have expanded my business to HazelsBagz & Apparel, where I am not only small business owner but a philanthropist, fashion show producer, and personal stylist. We continue to evolve and stay ahead of industry trends, ensuring that HazelsBagz & Apparel remains a go-to destination for women seeking stylish and functional bags, apparel, and accessories.

My journey has taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, perseverance, the power of passion and faith. I believe that with a clear vision, hard work, and a commitment to continuous improvement, anyone can overcome adversity and achieve their goals. I am grateful for the opportunities I have had and look forward to the future HazelsBagz & Apparel, where I hope to inspire and empower others through my entrepreneurial journey.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
No, it has not been a smooth road. My journey as a women’s retail small business owner has been marked by various challenges and obstacles, including external factors beyond my control. One such significant challenge was the 2008 market crash, which had a profound impact on the economy and consumer spending. During that time, many businesses, including mine, faced financial struggles as customers tightened their belts and sought to prioritize essential purchases.

Additionally, the year 2020 brought unforeseen obstacles with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic caused widespread disruption, forcing businesses to close temporarily and disrupting supply chains. As a retail business heavily reliant on in-person shopping, the restrictions and lockdown measures posed significant challenges. Foot traffic decreased significantly, and I had to quickly pivot my business model to adapt to the changing circumstances.

However, despite these immense challenges, I am proud to say that HazelsBagz & Apparel managed to navigate through these difficult times and even grow. In response to the 2008 market crash, I implemented strategies to optimize expenses, sought creative marketing approaches, and introduced new product lines that catered to changing customer needs and budgets. These efforts, coupled with a dedicated focus on customer service and satisfaction, allowed HazelsBagz to weather the storm and continue serving our loyal customer base.

Similarly, during the COVID-19 pandemic, I swiftly transitioned to online sales and implemented stringent safety protocols to ensure the well-being of customers. This proactive approach, along with leveraging social media and digital marketing, helped to maintain a connection with customers and sustain the business during challenging times. While the pandemic brought uncertainty and disruptions, it also presented an opportunity for me to further develop HazelsBagz’s online presence and expand our reach to customers beyond the local community.

Through resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to providing quality products and exceptional customer service, HazelsBagz managed to overcome the obstacles posed by the 2008 market crash and the COVID-19 pandemic. These experiences have reinforced my belief in the importance of agility and preparedness in the face of adversity. I am grateful for the continued support of my customers, whose loyalty has been instrumental in enabling the growth and success of HazelsBagz & Apparel despite the challenges we have faced.

As you know, we’re big fans of HazelsBagz & Apparel. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
HazelsBagz & Apparel is not just a retail business; it has grown into a multifaceted organization that encompasses more than just selling stylish bags. What sets us apart and makes us unique is our commitment to not only providing high-quality fashion accessories but also using our platform to make a positive impact on the community.

One aspect that sets us apart is our involvement in the fashion show industry. Initially, without prior experience, I started organizing fashion shows at the request of customers who admired my merchandise. These shows quickly gained popularity and became a significant part of our brand. Today, we have evolved into a staple fashion show production collaborating with local organizations to raise funds for women and children.

Our fashion shows are known for their flair, creativity, and philanthropic focus. We bring together one-of-a-kind pieces and local models to showcase the latest trends in the fashion world. Each show is meticulously curated, offering an immersive experience that combines fashion, art, and entertainment. By partnering with various organizations, we use these events as a platform to generate awareness and raise funds for causes close to our hearts.

What I am most proud of brand-wise is our ability to merge style with social responsibility. We have successfully created a brand that not only offers fashionable and functional products but also contributes positively to the community. It brings me great joy to see our customers, partners, and attendees of our fashion shows rally together to support causes and make a difference in the lives of those in need.

I want readers to know that HazelsBagz & Apparel is not just a retail brand; it is a symbol of empowerment and compassion. Our offerings extend beyond stylish bags to include a commitment to social impact. By supporting our brand, customers are not only receiving quality products but also joining a community that believes in giving back.

In addition to our fashion shows, we continue to provide an extensive range of stylish and functional bags and apparel that cater to the diverse needs and preferences of women. From everyday essentials to statement pieces, our collections are thoughtfully curated to ensure quality, style, and practicality.

Furthermore, our commitment to exceptional customer service sets us apart. We value our customers’ satisfaction and strive to exceed their expectations at every interaction. We are dedicated to providing personalized assistance, expert advice, and a seamless shopping experience.

Overall, HazelsBagz is a brand that combines fashion, philanthropy, and a deep-rooted passion for making a positive impact. We invite readers to join us on this journey, supporting our brand and participating in our fashion shows to contribute to meaningful causes while indulging in the world of fashion.

What do you like and dislike about the city?
What I like best about our city is its versatility and diversity when it comes to the organizations we collaborate with. Whether it’s supporting inner-city initiatives or partnering with suburban organizations, our brand values inclusivity and aims to make a positive impact across different communities. This diversity allows us to connect with a wide range of individuals and groups, contributing to the betterment of society as a whole.

Another aspect I appreciate about our city is the surplus of talented individuals and local designers that I have the opportunity to work with. Collaborating with these creative minds not only enhances our fashion shows but also fosters a sense of community and support within the local fashion industry. It’s truly inspiring to witness the talent and passion that exists within our city’s artistic community.

As for what I like least about our city, I must say that there isn’t much that I dislike. However, like any city, there may be challenges and areas for improvement. For instance, navigating through logistical complexities, such as permits and venue availability, can sometimes pose challenges when organizing large-scale fashion events. However, with careful planning and collaboration, we have been able to overcome these hurdles and deliver successful shows.

Overall, the best aspects of our city lie in its versatility, diversity, and the abundance of talented individuals. By embracing these strengths and working together, we can continue to build a vibrant community that supports local talent and contributes to the greater good.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hazelsbagz/