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BF Spotlight

Blowfish Malibu Spotlight: Mary Hoang!

We sat down with Mary Hoang, our Sales Rep in the First Cost department. She’s been a part of the Blowfish Malibu family for almost 10 years and in the footwear industry for over 20 years! 

Get to know Mary in the interview below:

Tell us about your role at Blowfish Malibu.

I am a sales rep in the First Cost department managing the major domestic accounts such as TJX Companies, Ross, and Burlington Coat Factory. The unique difference in my role is that I sell a secondary line as well as build product on the spot for buyers.

When did you first become interested in footwear?

I have been working in footwear for over 20 years. I somehow ended up in First Cost at my prior employer by chance. And since then, I have been in the First Cost department. I enjoy the ability to build product geared towards a specific account.

What did you do previously before joining the Blowfish Malibu team? 

I was a sales rep at Aerosoles in the First Cost department. I also worked as a production manager and logistics analyst at Aerosoles.

How did you get started with Blowfish Malibu? 

I moved to California approx. 10 years ago. I was working remotely for Aerosoles at the time but I was looking for a new job in California. I contacted an ex V.P. at Aerosoles for footwear contacts in Southern California and I was connected with Don. It was literally “six degrees of separation”. My interview with Greg was an informal lunch at a restaurant in Santa Monica.  That was my first realization how things are so different in California! I have been with Blowfish Malibu since.

 What projects at the brand have you been working on that you’re excited about? Can you tell us about them? 

The most recent project is building the new Spring 22 Core line with the design team.

The design team will share the trends they have seen in the market merged with the selling from my accounts. This is the main basis for the Core collection. It’s a long process, but a rewarding process as prototypes and materials come to fruition.

Another project that I am currently working on is building the Back To School assortment for my biggest account. A lot of analysis and trend ideas are shared to build the package. It takes about a 1-2 weeks to confirm an assortment with a big account.

What do you like most about working in the fashion industry? 

The trends are always fun to incorporate in our shoes. Not all the trends are relevant, but’s interesting to see how we interpret these

What’s your favorite part of your job?   

My favorite part of the job is building assortment with the buyers. It’s intense, but rewarding when we have built a solid assortment together. The interaction and relationship that I have with buyers are also amazing. You really build a bond with the buyers as your constantly in contact with buyers on a daily basis.

The Blowfish Malibu offices are in LA. What’s your favorite thing about the city? 

I love the beach! I live .5 mile from the beach and enjoy the beautiful weather that we have year-round.

Which is your favorite pair of Blowfish Malibu shoes? 

My favorite pair of Blowfish Malibu shoes is the Mamba. It’s a hidden wedge that gives me the extra height that I need paired with comfort.

What advice would you have for someone who’s trying to pursue the same career as you? 

Being organized is a key in managing big accounts. Also being flexible and able to react to a buyer’s request on the spot.

JUST FOR FUN

What was the last thing you were obsessed with?   

Doing Legos with my kids and binge watching tv shows.

Where are you from and how has that shaped you? 

I am a Jersey girl at heart. I grew up in Central Jersey, so I was a quick train ride to NYC and short drive to the infamous “Jersey” shore.

What’s your dream travel destination? 

I don’t have a dream travel destination, but I would love to go back to the resort island in the Philippines with my family.

When do you feel best about yourself? 

I love the feeling after a good workout. I play beach volleyball on the weekends in Hermosa Beach and I can burn approx. 1100 to 1300 calories playing volleyball.

What’s your personal motto?

I recently received a birthday card from a friend that said.. Don’t count the years but make the years count. The saying has stuck with me and really makes you step back and appreciate all the things in life.

What’s a fun fact about you most people don’t know? 

I am really handy and enjoy building things. I am big on DIY.

I love to use Pinterest for ideas. My next project is building a climbing wall/cool hideout in my backyard for my kids. I also like to cook/bake and love trying new recipes.

 

FILL IN THE BLANK!

I learn the most from: Doing things

I can’t live without: My family and dogs (2 Frenchies!)

My astrological sign is: Pisces

I’m scared of: Snakes. There is something about snakes that freak me out!

The last book I read was: :  I have 2 young kids at home, I have not read a book in a log time….

Most people would say I’m: OCD with things. I need certain things done a specific way

My style mantra is: A comfortable pair of leggings and top. I love Lululemon.

I feel most comfortable: When I am at home with my family

When I woke up today I felt: Great! I just celebrated my son’s 7th birthday.

I feel the best when: I am at the beach or spending time with my family and friends

 


Thank you so much for your time, Mary! We loved catching up with you!

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