We are certainly not film makers; however, with the help of friends and family (namely Connie’s 13 year old son, Andrew) we were able to put together a short video needed for a contest we were entering.
Below are the contest details in the words of Resource Interactive:
“For three decades, we have created groundbreaking consumer-driven digital strategies for Fortune 500 companies. And as we celebrate the agency’s 30th anniversary, our Founder and Chief Culture Officer Nancy Kramer and CEO Kelly Mooney want to do good while doing well with the launch of RI:30, giving one female-owned business the opportunity of a lifetime. The winner of RI:30 will work side-by-side with the same experts who have created award-winning digital experiences for some of the world’s biggest brands. For one year, we will work with the winner for free to create digital strategies and tactics to achieve her vision and launch her company into the digital stratosphere.”
For the video, Connie asked friends and customers for a brief quote about what Leal means to them. Unfortunately we had to cut the quotes short for the video, as it had a 90 second limit, but we wanted to share them here…
“Beautiful things, kind people, and you fill a very important need in the Central Ohio Area. When I wear something from your store, it never goes without comment. The brands are special, and so are you. I want you to win this.” ~ K
“I am not a “shopper”. And, that is why I so enjoy the comfort zone of L’eal . I am treated like a respected friend. It is welcoming, thorough and attention is paid to every detail. They seem to remember my history even though I may spend years between visits. I wish them every success in these difficult times and hope for brighter days for the economy of the world.” ~ S
“Leal is so much more than a clothing store. True, anytime I wear anything I have bought from Leal I received compliments from strangers, but it is the trusted sisterhood embrace you feel when you are in the store that makes it so special.” ~ LK
“The first time I walked into Leal, I could tell that this wasn’t just another retail destination. Spend five minutes in the store, and you notice a warm and welcoming environment where women can shop for all of their wardrobe needs. What makes Leal unique, is, that in addition to a low-pressure, friendly atmosphere, Connie’s taste in fashion has enabled her to offer some of the latest styles and trends for her devoted patrons. You won’t find the high pressure salesperson hovering over your shoulder, but when a recommendation is requested, the knowledge and experience of the sales staff will have you walking out with something that is flattering and fabulous. Leal is a gathering place where women meet for kinship and support. Connie Leal Ballenger continues to offer women of Columbus a unique fashion forward boutique experience that cannot be found anywhere else in our city. Although I have opportunities to travel, I prefer the personal relationships that I have developed through my years of shopping at Leal. Connie can tell me what I need, what will flatter me, what I wore to an event 5 years ago. She is a role model to the young women of our community, a dedicated entrepreneur, and a compassionate friend.” ~ L
“Connie Leal is a beautiful person, inside and out. Her business reflects her enthusiasm and her commitment to people and to doing the right thing! I love to have beautiful things but I do not particularly enjoy shopping. But that is not true about the time I spend with Connie in Leal. Connie makes me look fabulous and I have a wonderful time doing it with her in her shop! Her merchandise reflects what her customers want because she really knows us and buys with many of us in mind!; Warm, friendly, engaging – never pressure selling – service is what Connie has made Leal about. Genuine caring and service are the centerpiece of her business. And the bonus is that her merchandise is special – not seen in the department stores and chain stores. The shop and Connie are true treasures. Connie isn’t just selling beautiful things, she is helping us all feel beautiful no matter who we are or the circumstances of our lives!” ~ T
“I met Connie Ballenger years ago when she was first launching Leal. I loved the store immediately because it’s selection and style was a piece of NYC right here in Columbus. The reason I have been a long term customer of Leal is the service and personal relationship that Connie has with her clients. Nothing could have demonstrated that more for me personally than these past two and half years.
After my diagnosis of late stage ovarian cancer in 2009, Connie has supported and encouraged me through the tough fight of this disease. She has so many times lifted my spirits with caring, encouragement and fashions that for a time make me feel like my old self again.
Earlier this year Connie and the Leal team hosted the inaugural “Runway to Awearness”, a fashion show that raised $30,000 for The Patricia A DiNunzio Foundation at Ohio State to support women with Ovarian Cancer. This type of caring and support is what make’s Leal more than just a store, but a very special place in our community and my heart.” ~ Pat
“I love going to Leal… I can always count on them to have something that makes me look and feel my best!” ~ A
“When I want to look great, it’s one stop shopping at Leal.” ~ MF
“I think I was actually your very first customer & you weren’t even open yet…. I was excited to see a vibrant, hip businesswoman opening a boutique in Columbus where there no place to shop despite the fact that CITY CENTER had just opened.
Things just got better and better. You understood what women who wanted to look fashionable, and not look like everyone else, wanted to buy. You brought in designers that no one in Columbus had ever heard of. Not only that, you created a fun yet professional environment to shop in. It’s been a pleasure to watch the numerous young men and women you have mentored as they have expanded their careers. ” ~ E
“My husband relies on Connie and her team to pick out gifts for special occasions. When I see a gift with Leal wrapping, I know that it will be something that I will love and will be unique.” ~ M
Didn’t people say the most wonderful things? We think so!
xo, Molly & Cydney