MEET NICHOLA ENGLISH, THE WARDROBE PROVOCATEUR
More than a stylist, Nichola is a one woman creative genius and confidence coach with a razor sharp eye for fashion. Featured in various magazines for her knowledge and dedication she can often be found hosting confidence boosting workshops and sharing her vast knowledge from the stage at BIG events and seminars all over the UK. Nichola has recently been working on a product line and pretty soon you'll be able to buy her signature style items in shops nationwide. Its been one exciting and often exhausting ride for the female solopreneur and not one that came easily. Fighting against the odds Nichola is not only a woman you really need to know she's also a true inspiration. I am so proud to call her my friend and here, just for you, she shares her fifteen favourite questions and answers.
SO, NICHOLA, WHAT’S YOUR STORY?
My goodness where do I begin in answer to the question? I will share with you that all important moment, my story as to why I became a style coach™, and help people to be happy, successful and live a fulfilled life.
Back in my 20’s, I discovered a love of fashion and clothing, often helping to style my family and friends with outfits, make-up and hair. I could often be found browsing the fashion magazines or watching Trinny & Susannah, my styling heroes at the time (I have since acquired many more style heroes). After spending time working in my family's business, where I acquired my business acumen, I then ventured into the retail fashion world, working up & down the country, expanding my experience, retail and management skills along the way.
Little did I know that in the throes of enjoying a happy, successful career, I was about to face my very own major personal challenge. An accident that left me having to learn how to walk again. I didn't know it at the time but this was to be a catalyst in setting up my own styling coaching consultancy™.
During the rehabilitation, which was a very long process, I set about adding to my portfolio of experience and knowledge by becoming a qualified Life Coach. I had previously experienced life coaching first hand and just loved the concept. I decided that’s what I wanted to do; I wanted to help others to become who they wanted to be through the same process. However, ever passionate for style, I still wanted to incorporate my first love, so I went ahead and trained with the top International Style Coaching Institute™, where I was awarded the Honours and success award. I also trained in holistic therapies.
What drew me to Style Coaching™ was the combination of using a holistic approach. I realised that it wasn't just about the clothing you wear, it was about your journey of self.
I made a commitment to myself to share this knowledge by setting up my own style coaching™ business, which was to become The Wardrobe Provocateur. Being an accredited member of the International Style Coaching Federation™, gives me the ability to continuously maintain and update my skills and techniques to give my client the best possible service. During my studies, it was often remarked upon that I had a natural talent and eye for style and fashion, which I proudly share with all of my clients across the UK.
What makes me happiest is working with real, everyday women and men who desire change in their lives, appearance, negative self- image and beliefs. From busy mums stuck in a style rut story, who are trying to juggle kids and life, to small business professionals who want to improve their personal brand by increasing their impact and visibility.
I can finally say that I am living the life I designed and chose for myself. It's a fabulous feeling!
WHAT’S YOUR BRAND MISSION?
Our mission is to Inspire and empower women and men all over the world to become greater versions of themselves using life & style coaching that has profound positive effect on their mind, body and wardrobe.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE NON-WORK-RELATED THING TO DO?
I love to read I’m a huge advocate of using books to really stretch the mind, I often get so engrossed within books that it’s like I disappear within the pages.
HOW DO YOU HANDLE CRITICISM?
When I was younger I found criticism hard to take especially negative versions, but now I’m older and wiser I've learned to take it in my stride and look upon it as an opportunity to grow and feel empowered.
DO YOU SET GOALS?
Yes, goals are so important to me. They really help you to achieve your dreams.
WHAT WERE YOU LIKE AT SCHOOL?
I didn’t really like school as I always felt like an outsider. It’s funny, when I see people now and again from my school years they always say, I really liked you but didn’t feel confident to talk to you. Isn't that funny?
WHAT’S THE MOST EXCITING PROJECT YOU HAVE BEEN INVOLVED WITH FOR YOUR BUSINESS?
All the projects big or small excite me! I love my job!
DESCRIBE YOURSELF IN ONE WORD
Authentic.
WHAT HAVE YOU FOUND DIFFICULT ON YOUR JOURNEY?
When you start a business it’s so important to still have a regular income and full bill of health. Due to my accident, I had neither but that has never deterred me from building a business which just grows and grows. It's tough to remain dedicated against the odds but you can do it!
WHAT’S YOUR TOP TIP FOR ENTREPRENEURS READING THIS ARTICLE?
To remember success always begins with you, never give up and follow your heart. Always.
WHAT WOULD YOU CHANGE ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY OR WHAT WOULD YOU AVOID IF YOU COULD DO IT OVER AGAIN?
Ideally I would have had a better income or a nest egg behind me which would have taken some of the pressure and stress away, but this journey has also brought me great rewards and to change it may have a totally different outcome, and I kind of like where it’s taken me.
WHAT’S THE NUMBER ONE PLAYED SONG ON YOUR IPOD?
I don’t have an IPOD. I know it’s a shock! But on my phone “Don’t Stop Believin” By Journey. The title says it all!
WHAT DO YOU KNOW FOR SURE?
That everything always works out and whatever is meant for you will not pass you by.
DO YOU HAVE A BOOK OR FAVOURITE PODCAST RECOMMENDATION FOR OUR FEMALE CEO MEMBERS?
OMG, I’m a book worm and have so many! I'd probably choose Louise Hay, I just adore her books, she’s one of the first empowering books I read “You can Heal your Life” I still re-read when I need to work on my stuff.
AND FINALLY, IF YOU WERE TO RECRUIT THE IDEAL PERSON FOR YOUR BUSINESS WHAT ARE THE TRAITS THEY NEED TO POSSESS TO BE SUCCESSFUL?
Being a people person is SO important when you're working one to one on such a personal level. I'd also say you need to be Authentic, passionate, supportive, self -assured, compassionate, friendly, receptive, a good listener, outgoing, creative, have a razor-sharp eye for fashion, emotionally intelligent, bubbly, confident, savvy, motivated, adaptable, persistent and have a good work ethic.
If you want to know more about Nichola or have a question about The Wardrobe Provocateur you can drop her a line at [email protected] or over at her website - you can also chat to her via The members forum on The Community page!
