The stylishly trendy Miel fashion boutique isa destination for many Orange County fashionistas. Owner Sarah Choi talks about the business.
Q. Tell us about yourself and what you did before opening your business, Miel?
A: “I am a fashion design graduate from New York. I designed handbags and pursued a career in New York. Then I moved back to SoCal where I grew up, & continued my career at Guess as a handbag designer. I majored in womenswear & always wanted to pursue my dream of having my own line of women’s apparel & owning a small boutique that would possibly carry my brand. I eventually left Guess & started designing & manufacturing my own brand, Percée in Los Angeles, which eventually led me to open Miel here at The OC Mix.”
Q. What challenges do you face as a small business owner and how do you overcome them?
A: “As a small business owner, the biggest challenge & a blessing is having to do everything, from buying the right styles of clothing & accessories to managing various employees, as well as working as a salesman. My next challenge is to get our website back on track, which is almost like another full-time job!”
Q. What do you like best about having your shop at SOCO and the OC Mix?
A: “We are located outside of your usual “shopping mall” which gives a unique shopping experience for those who are looking for that “special something.” I’m also a big fan of searching for great places to eat in Orange County and I think The OC Mix is like a hidden gem for newcomers!”