Carla Jane Campisi is a Customer Service Manager of women’s accessories at Myer Chadstone. She writes: "I have always known I wanted to work in fashion and have my own store. Perhaps my love came from watching my Mum whip up Barbie doll dresses, and growing up visiting my Nonna's house on Chapel St in Melbourne and hitting the shops once I was old enough to go on my own.

After completing my VCE I worked in hospitality and retail (clothing) putting my love for customer service to good use and confirming my passion for Business. I started selling clothing made and designed by myself to a store in Chapel St and a store in Mildura's mall. I studied Clothing Studies at SuniTAFE Mildura.

In 2003 I made handbags and had a stall at a craft fair in Mildura. My Mum and my sister Toni helped me sew extra products the night before. I showcased my handmade and designed handbags and the stall led to me to presenting my first handbag party in Mildura at a local lady's house.

The handbag parties were a huge learning curve and the next 12 months were very productive, with the help from my family and friends who worked for me at the time.

This was a great initial concept, but after the first year I felt it was time to showcase my designs without customers having to host a party, so I opened my first (tiny) store in Oct 2004, in the ANZ Laneway off Deakin Ave. It was the best way to start out. I loved it and sourcing other fantastic fashion and accessories to compliment my handbags!

I relocated three times due to growth and space needed and my last location was my home for eight years, which showcased many beautiful clothing and accessory labels and focused on high quality customer service. Words can't describe how blessed I am that I can follow my passion!

After 12 years I have closed the doors of my bricks and mortar store for now, to move to Melbourne to further my fashion career. My advice (you don't have to take it): Follow your passion and dreams and success will always follow! (But please, start small.)"