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Live from Dallas Market Center: Retail, Relationships & Reinvention

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What does it take to build a thriving business while staying true to family values and legacy? In today’s episode, live from the Dallas Market Center, I’m joined by Marty and Claudia Leon as they take us through the rich history of the building and their own business evolution. As a family deeply rooted in both the industry and the space, their insights are not only valuable but truly inspiring. Listen in as they open up about the dynamics of working as a family, finding the right balance and setting boundaries, and mastering successful, consistent marketing strategies.

Retail, Relationships & Reinvention

What is a Showroom, and Why Should You Visit One?

A showroom is not just a place to browse clothing and accessories—it’s a curated experience where brands and reps have done the legwork for you. They research brands, vet quality, and ensure that the products align with what retailers need. Unlike scrolling endlessly online, a showroom allows you to touch, feel, and experience the products firsthand, giving you confidence in what you’re bringing into your store.

“We research these brands to make sure that they match well with our customers. We want to hit every customer—we don’t want to leave anybody out,” says one showroom rep. “We shop from the inside out, flipping garments to check the quality. When you come into a showroom, you can trust that we’ve done the work to find the best brands with the best quality.”

The Open-Door Policy: You Are Welcome Here

One of the biggest misconceptions about showrooms is that they are appointment-only or that retailers will feel pressured to buy. While appointments are great for one-on-one time with a rep, many showrooms welcome walk-ins with open arms.

“In my showroom, we have an open-door policy. Anybody can come in, and they’re all welcome. Appointments are helpful, but walk-ins are always welcome. We’ll let you shop, and we even serve food! We’re known for our mimosas and frozen margaritas, so if you want to have a good time while shopping, we’ve got you covered.”

Think of it like a museum—except you’re encouraged to touch, feel, and try things out. The showroom team is there to support you, not pressure you. “We all wear smiles,” one rep shares. “Our goal is to make sure you feel comfortable and taken care of.”

What You’ll Find in a Showroom

From established brands to up-and-coming designers, showrooms house a variety of products tailored to different price points and styles. Some of the standout brands you might find include:

Vintage Havana – A staple brand with 25 years in the industry
Hidden Denim – A go-to for high-quality jeans (and sometimes, even a free giveaway!)
Recycled Karma – Officially licensed graphic tees featuring iconic bands
Kinsey Designs – Affordable, high-quality jewelry designed to last
Matisse Footwear – A top footwear brand alongside its sister brands, Coconuts and Beach
Madly – Custom hats and t-shirts, perfect for boutiques looking for branded or localized merchandise
Alaya – A contemporary brand with a focus on curated, high-quality fast fashion

With this mix, retailers can find pieces that fit their store’s aesthetic while also being guided by experienced showroom reps who understand what sells.

The True Value of a Showroom Experience

Beyond the products, the real benefit of shopping in a showroom is the relationship-building aspect. Showroom reps act as more than just salespeople—they’re your retail advisors. They have a pulse on the industry, understand what’s trending, and can help guide you toward smart buying decisions.

“Building relationships is key. We pick up the phone, check in with customers, and truly dig into what’s performing and what’s not,” one rep explains. “That kind of insight is invaluable for making educated buying decisions.”

Overcoming Intimidation and Embracing the Experience

If you’re feeling hesitant about visiting a showroom for the first time, remember this: it’s not about how much you buy or whether you have an appointment. It’s about discovering quality products, getting expert guidance, and making connections that will support your business in the long run.

So the next time you find yourself staring at a showroom through a glass wall, take a deep breath and walk in. You might just find your next best-seller—and a team of people ready to help you succeed.

In This Episode

Marty and Claudia Leon: L&A Showroom | Marty | Claudia
Dallas Market Center
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Boutique Summit 2025

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