meet the Lela Team
Carrie
What do you love about Lela?
Of course I love the pretty clothes, but I love the feeling I get when I walk into our store each day. The energy is comfortable and welcoming. It makes me smile to think of all the crazy stories and funny experiences that have taken place in this store over the last 15 years.
What is your go to fashion accessory?
Honestly, my favorite accessory is a smile... but I'm pretty sure you want to know something more "on trend" than that! I would say right now my favorite accessory is the crossbody bag that doubles as a fanny pack It keeps my hands free to manage a leash for Hazel or a coffee for me!
What are your hobbies when you're not creating killer fashion ensembles at Lela?
Well, I am a certified corgi nut and spend as much time with my little one Hazel, of course! We enjoy practicing our agility tricks together to keep our minds busy. When it's time to relax, you will find me either mixing up a favorite tiki drink to enjoy at home or at The Foundation sipping on one of their delicious concoctions.
Deb
What do you love about Lela?
I love how welcoming Lela is to everyone. Each person who enters adds to the fun mix of personalities. There is no typical shopper or team member. We are all unique & genuine.
What is your go to fashion accessory?
My old answer was "jean jacket" but while I still do love a well worn jean jacket, I would say a pop of color is now my favorite thing to add to an outfit. Bright color tights, an unexpected pin (on a jean jacket), cheerful earrings or fun colored eyeglass frames. Anything a littler brighter & bolder to show my personality.
What are your hobbies when you're not creating killer fashion ensembles at Lela?
There is not a day that goes by that I don't dance for the simple joy of it!
Aja
What do you love about Lela?
I love the close relationships that we have developed with the customers over the years. We truly create friendships with many of the people that come though our doors.
What is your go to fashion accessory?
My go to fashion accessory is a fun necklace because I tend to wear a lot of black.
What are your hobbies when you’re not creating killer fashion ensembles at Lela?
As far as hobbies go, I love to spend time with my son. ( not sure if that a hobby but, it’s one of my favorite things to do) I also enjoy concerts, reading, and having a drink with my husband/ friends in the city.
Susan
What do you love about Lela?
I love the people I work with! They are interesting and we have lots of fun and laughter together. I enjoy showing our customers the unique pieces we have at all price points in new clothing and consignment and helping find the perfect addition for their wardrobe. I love promoting the clothes of the designers we carry and learning about their passion behind the clothes and jewelry they design.
What is your go to fashion accessory?
Necklaces and scarves.
What are your hobbies when you’re not creating killer fashion ensembles at Lela?
Playing tennis, reading, walking along the river paths and Lake Park with my dog, Millie, and hanging out with my amazing family and friends.
Kaitlin
What do you love about Lela?
Lela is the antithesis of a snobby boutique! We really strive to make it a welcoming place for everyone I think we achieve that - from our price points to our attitudes.
What is your go to fashion accessory?
My go-to accessory is dramatic pair of hoop earrings!
What are your hobbies when you’re not creating killer fashion ensembles at Lela?
When I'm not at Lela, I'm a voracious reader of news and devoted podcast listener.
What do you love about Lela?
I love the fashion, I love the vibe and I love my coworkers.
What is your go to fashion accessory?
Belts! I love a belt to change an outfit from loose and flowy!
What are your hobbies when you’re not creating killer fashion ensembles at Lela?
Painting, reading, exploring the city and spending time in Door County.
Jennifer
What do you love about Lela?
The customers. Such a variety of people it really makes the job interesting. So many different demographics on a daily basis.
What is your go to fashion accessory?
Hats. If it’s not a hat day then earrings.
What are your hobbies when you’re not creating killer fashion ensembles at Lela?
Checking out creativity of others. Love going to local craft/art shows, live music and checking out new restaurants. There’s a lot of great creativity in Milwaukee. And hanging with Frankie(my cat).
Bjorn
What do you love about Lela?
I love the eclectic nature of the store. It encourages exploration and lots of "aha" fashion moments.
What is your go to fashion accessory?
Personally, I love shoes. Good shoes make any outfit look amazing.
What are your hobbies when you’re not creating killer fashion ensembles at Lela?
I am a hairdresser/ makeup artist who adopts senior rescue dogs. I also host a monthly show at Hamburger Mary's as my alter ego, BJ Daniels.
Julia
What do you love about Lela?
I love a LOT of things about Lela. What initially drew me into wanting to work at Lela was the comfortable and accepting atmosphere of the store.
What is your go to fashion accessory?
My go-to accessory is a fabulous pair of earrings. I love interesting jewelry in general, but really love big, fun earrings.
What are your hobbies when you’re not creating killer fashion ensembles at Lela?
I like to work out in the morning with friends, I like to lie on the couch with my dogs and read when I get a chance, I like to bake sometimes. I like visiting places I've never been and visiting places I've been to often. I like to hike and I'm still trying to learn to row!