Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachel Hengst.
Hi Rachel, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
I have known Rob Perales, the owner of La Camisa at the Coronado Ferry Landing, for many years. My sister, Ruth, has worked for him for almost a decade, and I have gotten to know Rob through her over the years; when he decided to expand and open another location in Carlsbad called California Wear, he asked Ruth and I to oversee the organization and merchandising of that location. After that store was up and running, Rob found another location on the Coronado Ferry Landing to open a third location. He contacted me and asked if I would like to help him open the new store and ultimately be the manager. It was and is a great opportunity for me, so I said yes!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
As soon as the new location was secured and papers were signed, we wanted to try and open up as soon as possible to establish ourselves a little bit before the summer rush. The location was previously a deli, so switching over to a retail space was going to take a lot of work. We worked as a team to get the store up and running as quickly as possible. I think the greatest challenge was just getting enough merchandise into the space to realistically open to the public. We also didn’t want the store to look rushed or not ready, so we worked hard to achieve the environment we wanted in a short amount of time. I think, altogether, it took about a month and a half to get from deli to opening day.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I did not come from a retail background at all, so when I took on this project with Rob, I had a lot to learn! Thankfully Rob and my sister Ruth are extremely knowledgeable about retail and all it entails. They have both been so generous with that knowledge, and I appreciate that so much. For the past 10 years, I have worked in regional theater here in San Diego. I was a prop designer for many years; I have worked backstage and assisted in many different departments in theater. Some of those skills don’t necessarily translate, but surprisingly, a lot do! I would consider myself an artistic person based on my years as a prop designer and artisan. I have found it is very helpful to have a good eye when setting up a retail space and merchandising. It is similar to dressing a set for a show or being innovative when problems come along. In the fast-paced theater world, you have to be prepared for anything and work well under pressure, and both of those things are a given in the retail world.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
I think having a good work ethic is the most important thing. You have to be willing to put in the work. I feel so much more accomplished when I know I put my full dedication into a project. It is also important to work well with others and take advantage of their gifts and expertise. And always stay humble.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coronadomercantile/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093696141759
Image Credits
Chelsea Johnson
