This week, I would love to for you to get to know Mary Zarob of Q. Contrary, our vendor spotlight.
Q. Contrary is the concierge service for your wardrobe. They custom make suits, tuxes, jackets, shirts, and slacks. In addition to new clothing, they can tailor what is already in your wardrobe. They meet clients at their home or office and help men and women find clothes that fit and look their best.
How did you get started with your business?
My background is men’s fashion and went to school at FIT in New York City. While in NYC, I designed for Macy’s and Calvin Klein Jeans. I enjoyed designing for department stores and now really love designing for individual clients. I spent the last 3 years working for other clothiers making custom made clothing and started my own business last year, 2017, doing the same.
What makes you, Q Contrary our Vendor Spotlight, different from other businesses in the field?
My background and NYC experience really sets me apart from other businesses. I spent the last 15 years studying what it takes to be effective. How you present yourself is important to feeling great and being successful. I use my knowledge and experience to help my clients look their best.
Why do you like working with weddings?
The wedding day is one of the most important days in peoples’ lives. I love helping the groom (and groomsmen) find the right look for their special day. So much attention is given to the bride and the groom can be left out. I am honored to help grooms (and groomsmen) find the perfect suit, tux or look that compliments his bride and makes him feel like a king on this important day.
What was the most difficult situation you have faced with a client and how did you resolve it?
I had a client who was trying to lose weight before his wedding and waited to the last minute to get fitted. There was an issue with the fabric getting to the tailor and I was nervous his suit wasn’t going to arrive on time. I worked closely with my tailor and had everything delivered overnight. I thought I had to drive to LA to get his suit and bring it back to AZ. In the end, it all worked out but I learned not to wait to the last minute especially for weddings.
From a vendor’s perspective, what’s the best piece of advice you can give to engaged couples?
I always tell my couples to pick a style and accessories that compliments you. Especially in photos. You want people to focus on your face and smile and not the bold tie or wide lapels or bold pattern in your suit.
What or who motivates you?
My clients motivate me especially when I hear they get compliments when they wear the clothes I design for them. Feeling good in what you wear is so important and knowing my clients love what I make them, inspires me to keep doing what I am doing.
What do you do when you are not working?
I love playing sand volleyball, hiking, cooking, working out, watching football and meeting up with friends and family. I love being active and living in Arizona allows me to be active outside every day.
What would we be surprised to learn about you?
I am from a large family – 1 of eight children. I have 4 sisters and 3 brothers and mom and dad make 10. I am so grateful for it and am close to all my siblings. I have 20 nieces and nephews and love spoiling them. Family is so important to me and I am blessed to have them in my life.
If you want to learn more about Mary and Q. Contrary, our vendor spotlight, please make sure to visit their website at www.qcontrary.com and let Mary know you found her from reading our blog.
If you are in the market for fabulous, friendly, and reputable vendors, please contact us for references.at joann@aproposcreations.com or click here.