Meet Andrea Haymond | Small Business Owner and Dreamer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Andrea Haymond and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Andrea, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
As an immigrant, I learned that America is the land of opportunities. From a young age, I had a thing for clothes. In high school, I wanted to pursue fashion but I was coerced into pursuing a safe, high-paying career path. Sitting in my freshman introductory biology class, I knew that pre-med was not the move for me. I switched my major to business not knowing what I wanted to do in the future. Sitting in my business classes, I felt like I was in the right place. I later on added a fashion minor, thinking it wouldn’t hurt. I was fascinated by all of the classes I took. I listened to a lot of business podcasts on my way to classes and just felt like one day I needed to start something of my own. After I graduated, I had the opportunity to work for amazing small business owners and mentors. I was encouraged to pick a niche and start something of my own. I had my fear holding me back for a while until I decided to just pull the trigger because there would never be the right moment.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I got my bachelor’s degree in Business with emphasis in the Spanish language and a minor in Fashion from Arizona State University. I have since then, worked in insurance, retail, and currently I work as a merchandising specialist at Scrapbook.com. Something unique about me is that I love learning. I’m like a sponge and will soak up knowledge. I love to take on new challenges. Working a 9 to 5 for someone else has its ups and downs. Each job has taught me new things about myself and lessons on running a business. I have been able to apply those things as I progress in the journey of starting and growing my own business.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
For experiences, I would take them hiking (South Mountain, Gold Canyon, San Tan), a sporting event (depending on the season), the Scottsdale Fashion Square, Last Chance, and . As for food, I would take them to Bahama Bucks, Unos Tacos, Tacos Chiwas, Cane’s, Eggstasy, and Snooze, Balboas.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My former bosses, the Taylors, deserve a shoutout. I met them at Church when I was young, and I always admired them. When I was looking for an opportunity to work in retail, they let me help them out with their business. They showed me that it is possible to make something of yourself. They showed me that it is possible to start and run a successful business.

Website: shopdrescloset.com

Instagram: @shop.drescloset

Image Credits
First image was taken by Olivia Sanchez.