Beetees – it’s all about you
They say there is no “I” in team. This is certainly the case with the owners of Beetees womenswear store on Trafalgar Street, Nelson. Glen runs the overall accounts and general management of the store, and Lorraine works in the shop managing new stock, buying stock and helping women choose the best style for them. They are very lucky to have two awesome assistants in Sue and Linda, who between them have many years of experience in the Fashion industry.
Chandra looks after their social media and website 2 days a week. He is from Nepal and is a real gun with technology as their website and social media are a key part of their promotional outreach.
We also have another Sue, who keeps Glen on the straight and narrow with accounts!!!
“We find our customers often have a good browse online before they come into the shop It gives them a chance to peruse some of our collections before popping in.” says Glen.
It’s been quite a journey for them as they have both done many different things over the years. That’s what these articles are all about!
Glen has worked in the Travel industry, originally starting with NAC in Nelson and eventually owned a successful Travel Agency in New Plymouth, which lead to a lot of travel.
“It was an exciting time to be in that industry, as we looked after some big international clients involved primarily in the Oil and offshore exploration business.
“We did some time in Australia running a Hotel in Bathurst, which unfortunately didn’t work out as planned, but was a good experience. You can’t win them all but you get up, regroup and have a look to see what other opportunities are in front of you.” says Glen.
He worked at Port Nelson loading ships for a year before becoming the General Manager of the Nelson Suburban Club in Tahunanui from 1997 – 2013, which was a busy hub for fun local activities, bands, and hospitality. A very enjoyable 15 years.
Lorraine, originally a private secretary, has always been interested in the fashion industry. She used to do some modelling in her younger days and on their return to Nelson ran the H & J Smith Woman’s wear department in Nelson, and the Motueka store which they purchased in 2005.. The travel was getting a bit tiresome and they decided to open in Nelson in 2013. The name ‘Beetees’ is a play on their surname which is ‘Beattie’.
Lorraine also managed fashion outlets in Taranaki and they both enjoyed living in that part of the country. However Glen recalls that chilly wind from the mountain just cuts through you, and the pull towards Nelson sunshine became too strong to resist. They also had a young son Nik, and wanted to return to grandparents and schooling.
“Our target market is generally 25 years upward. It’s middle of the price range, high-quality clothing that we source from a buying group in Christchurch, and various suppliers worldwide. The girls who work at the shop get some input into what they need, which is great. We are off to Christchurch next week to view a large percentage of our 2022 winter range. We have a customer base of approximately 6000 locals, who have been very supportive during the lockdowns. We have been blown away by their loyalty and genuine desire to support our store. We sincerely thank them” says Glen.
On the weekends they love spending time with their 2 pet dachshund dogs named Tessa and Josh, who are popular on Lorraine’s Facebook page!!!. Travel is a big part of their relaxation and they have spent many summers at Kaiteriteri in there caravan. Alas, overseas trips are off at the moment
Check out their website and support local, they have a lot to offer. Its fresh and original woman’s clothing right in the heart of the CBD.
Visit their website www.beetees.co.nz
Facebook www.facebook.com/BeeteesNelson
Instagram www.instagram.com/beeteesnelson
Located at 240 Trafalgar Street, Nelson
Call 03-546 8700
Open hours:
Monday to Friday: 10 am to 5 pm
Saturday: 10 am to 3 pm
Sundays closed.
Explore virtual tour at Beetees Nelson here.
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