Meirav Livne-Bar

WHAT GOT YOU STARTED?

by Burke Campbell

Published in the Financial Post

November 5, 2007

Meirav Livne-Bar owns and operates Renaissance Man in downtown Toronto. The resale store specializes in men’s clothing, sold on consignment. Meirav Livne-Bar tells Burke Campbell what motivated her to become an entrepreneur.

EARLY START: “My grandmother and my mother weren’t rich, but they had elegance and style. I learned that you didn’t have to spend a lot to dress well. In New York , I studied at the Fashion Institute of Technology. There, I discovered the importance of detail.”

DECISION TIME: “I thought about opening this store for years. An opportunity came along and I felt it was now or never.”

SPOTS A NEED: “There aren’t many stores where a man can bring his clothing for resale.  If the clothes sell, we both benefit.”

DESIGNING A COLLECTION: “I select everything myself. I accept only pieces that are spotless, in mint condition.  I enjoy picking the best and selling at a discount.”

JUST FOR GUYS: “I sell only men’s clothing and accessories.  To tell the truth, I find men easier to deal with.”

DOING SOMETHING GOOD: “There’s too much waste in our society. It’s wrong. I like to see things re-cycled.”

THE WISEST PATH: “I have my own ideas and I like to do things my way. If you have ideas, it’s better if you work for yourself. It’s more fulfilling and there’s less conflict.”

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