Matty Vazgiel had dreamed of opening a trendy boutique since he emigrated from Israel 17 years ago.
Last year, that dream became a reality.
“The greater Baltimore area was sorely lacking a clothing store that carried a line of forward-looking, chic European clothes,” Vazgiel said. “I felt that if the option was available, the customers would come.”
However, with more than 50 percent of startup businesses failing, according the U.S. Census Bureau, Vazgiel and his wife, Sara, knew it would take dedication and hard work to make the business succeed.
Their faith in the venture paid off, and paid the bills, as Absolut has posted a 30 percent increase in sales since opening its doors last year.
“This is eye-candy clothes for the fashion fanatic,” said Tammy Woodson, of Randallstown. “The prices are great, and the merchandise is high quality. I am always getting comments on [Absolut] clothes.”
“I think one of the things that attracts so many people to my store is that you don?t need to be a millionaire to shop here,” said Vazgiel. “The average man or woman can shop here and not break their budget.”
Vazgiel says he chose Pikesville because he sees the town as being a very hip and luxurious community that is in the midst of a rebirth; and a community that he can help give back to through his business. In the most recent data from the U.S. Small Business Administration, growing companies like Vazgiel?s contribute $16.2 billion dollars to the state economy every year.
“A lot of people lost faith in this area, but it is perfectly situated between the city and county on the main strip between them,” he said. “I expect this to be a very chic area to live and shop in a few years.”
Absolut carries sizes 0-16 for women and up to 4XL for men, and carries everything from designer jeans to gowns and men?s formalwear. One of the things that distinguishes the store from others is the personal touch Vazgiel and his staff give shoppers.
“During our first year we got the opportunity to know the customers, identify their likes and dislikes and needs,” said Vazgiel. “We don?t just sell clothes ? we look at a person?s complexion, body shape and style and show them clothes that we feel suit their tastes.”
“My girls and I love this place,” said Gwynn Oak resident Dawn Johnson. “[The clothes] really draw the eyes of people when you are in a crowd and we always get asked, ?Where did you get that?? ” she said.
More information
» Absolut
1100 Reisterstown Road, Pikesville
410-486-0415
Staff writer Dave Carey contributed to this story.
