
Today we have a new Dream Job interview (just in time for the holidays!). The interview is with the wonderful Emily Liebl, the woman behind EL Vintage. Once a Midwesterner (she’s originally from Milwaukee, where I live!), she now lives in Los Angeles. Emily is a woman with a big heart, an eye for vintage. and a true passion for what she does. Her personality and energy are infectious and it’s clear that she loves what she does! A big thanks to Emily for taking the time and I hope you enjoy this glimpse into her business, style, and space! xo
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Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what you do?
I am a very creative person with a bit of business sense. I own and operate a vintage clothing and accessories company named EL Vintage.
Where have you worked in the past and what led you to form EL Vintage?
I have always worked in retail where I have used my talents in visual merchandising and customer service. I love working one on one with clients to get them to find out what they need and want. I love bringing out the individual style of the client. Bring out what they love in themselves even more. Nothing like it and I adore helping the client with vintage styling. I ended up selling vintage because I believe in individuality and also love being apart of the whole recycling movement and not adding more stuff on our planet. There are so many treasures that need to be hunted out and shared.

What does a typical day look like? As a business owner, how do you set your own schedule and manage your time?
It is really all over the place. I like to take a day and hunt or I take the day to connect with existing clients or finding a new one. Nothing like finding a client who wants my opinion and shops many different pieces.
What do you enjoy about living in LA and how does your location affect your business and aesthetic?
I love living in LA because the weather is always good. You can be outside all the time. Nothing like it. I also love it here because you can do outdoor markets all the time to meet new clients. LA does definitely affect my aesthetic now. I used to be very much into black and was a bit conservative in Chicago. Here it’s all about hippie chic, bohemian looks with lots of fun kaftan, long necklaces and color, lots of color.

Where do you look for vintage finds and what qualities do you look for in a vintage piece?
I shop everywhere for vintage. There is no particular spot. I enjoy finding mint condition or at least excellent condition goods. Nothing like providing a beautiful piece and having clients who really appreciate that quality.
I shop everywhere for vintage. There is no particular spot. I enjoy finding mint condition or at least excellent condition goods. Nothing like providing a beautiful piece and having clients who really appreciate that quality.
What is one challenge of owning a creative business and something you’d like to change or improve?
I definitely need to promote more and find more clients. That is always the one thing that I want to improve. It’s always about finding another incredible person who has a love for vintage.
Where do you look for business advice and guidance?
Observations of other vintage companies and also other business owners that I know.

(Photos via the EL Vintage tumblr, styling by Emily Liebl)
What is your vision for the future of EL Vintage?
I would like to expand the business into a creation of EL Vintage dresses.
What do you like to do when you’re not working?
I love a really good hike, a dinner with good friends and spending time with my rescue doggies.
Do you have any advice for others looking to create their own dream job? Or anything else you’d like to share?
JUST DO IT! Sounds very Nike but its so true. Don’t think about it at all. Just observe other people doing it, see what works and then waste no time, just go for it. You have nothing to lose. It’s very rewarding having your own business to create on. Oh and create, keep creating interest no matter what!

(Photos: Emily Liebl for EL Vintage)














Friday, December 21st, 2012, 8:00 am | 



January 8, 2013 at 11:41 am
I love career profile, and this one is wonderful! Great job! xx
http://www.timelessdifference.com
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