Mandy Schuster, Partner, Beyond Cotton ll
Retail runs deep in my family as Beyond Cotton was started by my mother, Nancy, and the late Angie Wood in 1997. At that time I was responsible for ensuring we had the latest trends in-store and was given an area to create a “contemporary” section. We were pioneers in bringing contemporary clothing to Little Rock at a time when people were traveling to Dallas to shop. Opening a second store at Pleasant Ridge allowed us to grow the business by offering a much larger selection of contemporary clothing. I am happy to say Beyond Cotton ll will soon celebrate 5 years. My staff and I strive to express knowledgeable and helpful service to our clients who seemingly feel like friends and family.
ON POWER
People often underestimate the power of kindness. No doubt, kindness transforms lives, perhaps more than any other attitude or technique.
I felt most powerful when I dressed as Wonder Woman as a kid.
A true sign of power is when I accomplish something difficult that I have been praying for; it’s an inherent power from God.
ON MOTIVATION
Beyond Cotton is a great arena to be a person of value to others. I love to please my customers with great fashions and help them find their style and express themselves happily and confidently. I also enjoy giving back to the community by supporting charities, such as “Runway for a Cause.” I have been there every year. I love the flexibility of volunteering every week for Hearts and Hooves, a therapeutic riding center for the disabled. I credit my mother for her shining example of service; she graciously gives to charitable causes and effortlessly extends a helping hand and encouragement to people in need.
Career goal? My goal is to lead and support this family business with the knowledge and work ethic learned by my parents, all the while expressing kindness.
ON SUCCESS
I allow myself to feel a sense of success frequently; it keeps me motivated. When I devise a plan and implement it, whether it is work-related, personal or just a trip to the park with my daughter, I am happy.
A POWERFUL DAY
The day I became a mom.
THE QUIZ
Favorite place in Arkansas?
The Little Red River
Favorite Restaurant?
Capi’s, for the Ahi Tuna Tostada
(Back to Soirée’s 2011 Women to Watch)