Patty Mekhail shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Patty, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What is a normal day like for you right now?
Lately, a “normal” day looks like chaos! When the new selling season approaches – ESPECIALLY fall/winter, it’s all hands on deck to prepare for holiday shopping events, new collections for the website and store prep. This includes the buying period (my favorite!) to choose the best styles and pieces for my customers, so many shipments coming in, hanging and steaming clothing, pricing and curating my collections, etc. The days are full and tiring, but bring lots of excitement in anticipation of the busiest shopping period of the year.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Oh hi! I’m Patty Mekhail, owner of blackbird + lou right here in Austin, Texas. We are a women’s boho-inspired boutique selling clothing, jewelry and accessories and pride ourselves on offering something for every type of woman. We are inclusive on sizing and style preferences and absolutely love helping women feel their best in what they wear. Our little shop is proud to be unique in selecting apparel to sell that is on trend, but also timeless. Think embroidered tencel shirts, classic layering pieces and vintage inspired floral prints. We like to think that the styles we offer make people happy, because they really make us happy!
We currently have two store spaces in the Austin area (one in southwest Austin, one in Round Rock), sell our goods through our website, and participate in 18+ in-person shopping events throughout the year. We are so excited as we gear up for the wonderful holiday shopping season!
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who taught you the most about work?
There are so many people that contributed to my work ethic: my parents, my aunt, etc. But the most influential person that led me to my career is my grandmother, Pat. We call her Ninny. She had a boutique in my hometown, and later designed and created her own line of women’s European linen clothing. She traveled the country slinging her wares at countless markets and trade shows, and I went with her anytime I could (starting at around 5 years old). This is where I fell in love with clothing. The touch and feel of the fabrics, the curated clothing stalls, the pride you feel when a customer purchases something that you chose yourself. Ninny taught me so much about customer service (all of her women adored her), aesthetics (her spaces were absolutely beautiful) and how important having passion about what you do is.
My beautiful grandmother passed away a week ago, and while I miss her terribly, I am so grateful to her for giving me the drive and determination to create a successful business, and to love what you choose to do with your one extraordinary life. I will forever be honored to carry in her footsteps in the retail industry.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could tell my younger self anything, it would be to stop doubting yourself. You can be all the things you dream of being and don’t need to take the safe route. Step out of your comfort zone and stop putting off your daydream. Go for it!
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
My ultimate dream, and one I will never give up on, is opening my very own brick and mortar in Austin. While it may be a bit down the road, you never know when the stars will align and the perfect opportunity will present itself. I will keep striving toward this goal and keep inching closer to it becoming a reality.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
A wise man once told me (in other words) that if you aren’t going to give something your all, there’s no use even doing it. And that you do things because it’s right, not for the praise of others. When I do something, I’m all in. Otherwise there’s no point. It is enough validation for me alone to know that I did my best. Thanks, Dad.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.blackbirdandlou.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbirdandlou
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blackbirdandlou
