LEADING LADIES: MEGAN PODOLSKY OF 529 KIDS CONSIGN

Originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Megan PodoIsky has over 15 years experience in retail management, buying, and merchandising.  Her love of children and fashion makes owning 529 Kids Consign her “dream come true”. Between her business partner, Pouneh, and herself, they have four growing boys to dress. “Shopping for and dressing these little guys is something that we both love. However, we were shocked at how quickly these wares are out-grown – and we decided that we were probably not alone.”  And so, 529 Kids Consign was born. 

Megan realized that she was doing what she loved: Being a mom, starting her business venture from home with her kids at her side, and helping other moms save money. Her dream started as an online boutique and quickly grew into a well-known "pop-up" boutique. Now, you can find 529 Kids Consign with a brick and mortar storefront in historic Old Town, Alexandria.

“I always knew I would own my own store, I just didn't think it would happen 6 months after my second son was born.  I dragged that little guy in his car seat to Home Goods once a week to purchase furniture for the store. Late nights merchandising the store with both boys in tow were both tiring and rewarding…  Now I walk into the store every day and pinch myself!” 

Describe yourself in three words:  
Enthusiastic, Motivated, Hard-Working

What do you consider your greatest professional achievement?  
Opening 529 Kids Consign. After spending 15 years in the retail industry, it was always my ultimate goal to own my own store – and kids' consignment makes so much sense nowadays!

What are your professional goals for the next six months?
To expand our business and our brand!

How does your company stay connected through social media? 
We post pictures of new product on a daily basis to stay in touch with our customers. 

What profession other than yours would you like to attempt?  
Possibly social media marketing- I have become pretty good at it!

How do you maintain a work/life balance?  
My husband is my rock. He, too, works for himself...so together we are raising our two boys and living the American Dream. He helps with everything from cooking to changing diapers!

What websites do you visit every day?  
Facebook, Twitter, Nordstrom

What is your favorite drink – and where can you find it in Northern Virginia?
Grey Hound with fresh squeezed grapefruit juice at Virtue Feed & Grain!

What are your top 3 favorite people/places/things in Northern Virginia?  
-Cameron Station: My Neighborhood in Alexandria where most of the amazingly supportive women in my life live. 
-Restaurant Eve: A dinner at the bar with my husband is one of my favorite night's out!
-Hanging with my little boys at any of the wonderful parks in Alexandria. 

What is your goal for retirement?
To be comfortable enough to enjoy our kids/grandchildren and not have to worry. And travel, travel, travel!

Do you have any advice for women who would like to start their own company?
Do not be afraid.  Keep a positive attitude!
Connect with Megan Podolsky @ 529 Kids Consign
www.529kidsconsign.com
via email: megan@529kidsconsign.com
via twitter: www.twitter.com/529kidsconsign
via facebook: www.facebook.com/529KidsConsign

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