A fter decades as a seasoned business owner in downtown Charlottetown, Lady Slipper Intimate Apparel and Accessories’ current owner Debbie Matthews is set to retire following 35 years in business to spend more time with her husband and her dogs. She is leaving Lady Slipper in the capable hands of Carolyn MacKinnon, who looks forward to working with the store’s manager of more than 30 years, Rita Ramsay. “During her [MacKinnon’s] first interview, when I asked about her aspirations, she said she wanted to own a retail store,” explains Matthews. “That was also my dream when I was in high school, so we had something in common from the start.” Now a mother of three young children, MacKinnon is excited to grow the business with its existing customers while, at the same time, continuing to attract new faces to the store every day. “Lady Slipper offers many unique and exclusive lines,” says MacKinnon. “Paired together with our high level of customer service, we truly offer a one-of-a-kind shopping experience.” Having known her professionally for nearly 20 years, Matthews is confident that MacKinnon—who earned a degree in business administration with honours while working full-time for Matthews—will continue to grow the business with both a forward-thinking vision and a nod to the past at the same time.
“I have full confidence Carolyn will continue with my vision for Lady Slipper, along with some new direction of her own,” says Matthews. “I feel very comfortable with her ability to operate a retail business. There has to be a great amount of trust when you are allowing someone to manage your investment. But she can analyze the numbers and relate them to a plan. This business is more than buying pretty clothes.” MacKinnon is indeed passionate about every aspect of the business—and it shows. “I look forward to continuing the business with the knowledge and experience Debbie has taught me firsthand,” she says. “Things in the retail world are constantly changing, and I love the challenge of keeping up with trends and the way we do business.” For Matthews, it wasn’t even a question who would take over her business as she prepared for her retirement. She always thought of the young lady she had interviewed years ago who dreamed of a store of her own. All these years later, that same young lady has grown into a talented businesswoman whose future is bright. “This business is tough and competitive. It is also experiencing the biggest changes in its history,” says Matthews. “But I’m confident there is still room for shopping in a one-on-one social atmosphere with retailers that understand your needs, and are honest about what they can or cannot offer. The proof is in the continued loyalty and growth in our customer base.”
Her best advice to MacKinnon? “Enjoy the ride. I know I did.”
◄ Carolyn MacKinnon ▼ Debbie Matthews
Lady Slipper Intimate Apparel & Accessories 65 Queen St, Charlottetown 902.892.6525 www.theladyslipper.ca
WOMEN IN BUSINESS 2020
SPRING 2020 www.pei-living.ca
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