Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicole Eacuello.
Nicole, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
My passion for styling definitely comes from my mother. She had, and still does have, a subscription to Vogue (a staple in our household). For as long as I can remember, these magazines left me with a desire to create. I used to beg my sister to take pictures of me while I tried to replicate editorials. My room was “decorated” with hundreds of pages I tore from the publication. Safe to say, I’ve always been inspired by and enamored with high fashion. Let’s be honest though – very few people (myself included) can afford to shop at luxury stores.
It all started with a dress. A beautiful, white, window lace midi dress in INTERMIX’s display on Newbury Street. The moment I saw it I fell in love, but sadly, knew it was an extravagant splurge that I most likely would not be purchasing. I was right, it had a $900 price tag. I figured I’d at least try it on and get it out of my system. My theory was wrong – trying it on just made me want it even more. I left INTERMIX empty handed, but I wasn’t going to be defeated. I went home and sat on my computer (for longer than I’d like to admit) searching every possible term I could think of the describe the dress. Eventually, I found a lookalike on Nordstrom Rack for $45. That little victory inspired me to start Next By Nicole as a platform to share shopping & styling tips for all body types and empower women to feel confident with their wardrobe (while staying within a budget)!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
This all started as a passion project, and I feel so fulfilled and rewarded by every second I put into creating content, interacting with readers and other bloggers, and (hopefully) helping women find new pieces they love. Despite it being a relatively smooth and fun road, there have absolutely been some challenges. A lot of people think blogging just involves wearing pretty things and taking pictures, but like any other business/brand, there is a lot more to it. In addition to modeling and styling, Bloggers are also creative directors, copy writers, social media strategists, writers, SEO analysts, and so much more. Balancing this with a full time job can be tricky, but with a little time management practice, it becomes second nature.
My biggest piece of advice to anyone embarking on a entrepreneurial journey is to always remember where you started. This sounds super cliché, but on days when I feel discouraged or frustrated, I like to take a few minutes to reflect on my progress and how much Next By Nicole has grown in its first year. When I launched my website, I also started a journal to jot down goals and write a daily entry focusing in on what I am grateful for. Having this space has been so beneficial to my personal development, and allows me to plan for the future.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Next By Nicole – what should we know?
Next By Nicole is a space for women of all shapes & sizes to feel empowered and inspired – all while staying within a budget. I specialize in creating high-end looks for less and filling closets with both trendy pieces and timeless staples.
I’m so proud of (and very thankful for) the Next By Nicole community that continues to grow. Every time I get a DM or text or email from someone asking for styling advice, I get SO excited and feel so much pride that I’m being trusted to help. It’s the most amazing feeling, and I’m always like, “GIRL, I GOT YOU.” I think this is definitely something that sets me apart from others – I respond to every comment and message I receive. That, and the fact that I will search for hours to find someone what they’re looking for. It really does bring me so much joy. Additionally, I’ve met so many incredible women from all over the world who have similar goals and values to me, and found a wonderful little support network.
I am also excited to announce that I will be offering personal shopping services starting in September 2018!
What’s the most important piece of advice you could give to a young woman just starting her career?
I love the saying, “empowered women, empower women,” because it couldn’t be more true! Don’t see others as competition, see them as allies & inspiration. I have been very lucky to have a strong tribe of female entrepreneurs, mentors, and creators in my corner.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.nextbynicole.com
- Email: nextbynicole@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nextbynicole/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nextbynicole
Image Credit:
Personal Photo: Maaike Bernstrom Photography https://www.instagram.com/maaikephoto
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