Rising Stars: Meet Faith Ballor

Today we’d like to introduce you to Faith Ballor.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I moved to Arizona when I was 9 years old from Vermont. I originally was studying to become a Corporate attorney – completing both my Bachelor’s Degrees in Business Law and Political Science at Arizona State University’s W.P Carey School of Business.

When the pandemic hit, there was a lot of uncertainty. I was fresh out of college and lockdowns were in full swing. I didn’t want to complete law school virtually, so I decided to find a decent WFH job until life returned to normal.

One day towards the beginning of 2021, I found out a space was available on Main St. I immediately went over to check it out, and I knew right away my career path was about to change forever.

Fast forward to now, I’m grateful to say I have my dream job. I always have had a creative itch since I was younger- coupled with my admiration for fashion and styling.

Norde Scottsdale has allowed me to be myself and have my own creative flow. I also get to meet amazing people every day from all over the country (and sometimes the world).

I’m so grateful for my support system and I would not have been able to be where I’m at today without my family. My sister, Julia, is my right hand and we run the business together. My mom has also been in the retail industry since I was 10, so I’ve learned so much from her. She’s the best mentor.

Looking back, it’s wild to think how both my sister and I were studying law together, and now we’re selling sequin pants and rhinestone cowgirl boots! But I wouldn’t change a thing.

We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Running a business is a lot of work. When you start something (and even long after that), you are working 24/7. Sometimes it’s hard for my brain to switch “off” from work mode!

Being in retail, there are always going to be struggles, especially with trends changing constantly. There are also so many new social media apps to keep up on, while all managing other aspects of your business. In the last year and a half, I’ve learned something new every day. I feel like the biggest struggle is keeping up with it at times! I’m 26 years old, so I’m also still trying to keep up with my personal and social life.

A lot of my friends and people around my age are starting to settle down and have kids. But the store feels like my child, does that count?!

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Norde Scottsdale is a fun and fashionable boutique where western meets glam. When you come into the store, you’re greeted by an array of colors, sparkles, fringe or all of the above!

The thing that sets us apart from others is not being scared to be different. My goal at Norde Scottsdale is to provide my customers something to take home that allows them to be expressive in a fun and fashionable way-all while giving each one the best personal shopping experience. I want them to feel at-home even if they’re thousands of miles away from it!

Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
The best advice I can give anyone who’s starting out, is to just go with your gut and stay true to your brand and vision.

I’ve learned that retail is extremely competitive, and what sets you apart from others is your edge! What do you bring to the table that is different than other boutiques or shops? Make yourself memorable!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.nordescottsdale.com
• Instagram: @nordescottsdale
• Other: https://g.page/norde-scottsdale?share