I help my clients maximize their wardrobes and accessories to look their best. I do an phone consultation and come into the client's home to see what is already in their closets. I also help them put together looks with they already have, accompany them as they shop, and write up personalized tips on where to shop and what to look for. My mantra is: Fashion is trend, but style is forever.

EDUCATION | I studied fashion merchandising but left before graduation because I got a full time job. That was my schooling. Anyone can have a flair for fashion. It is about educating yourself on styles, body types, color and really knowing what works on each individual. Also, psychology is very important behind this career. I've studied psychology as well.

HOW TO GET STARTED | I usually suggest that people who want to get started in this business call agencies that not only hire models, but stylists, makeup artist etc. and ask to be an assistant or intern for one of the stylists. Look for fashion shows where you can assist/intern with the head stylist. Check out magazines and corporations, too. Another idea is to work in corporate fashion, i.e. Gap, Levi's, etc. Also, join the Association of Image Consultants International (AICI.org).

MUST HAVE TRAITS | To be an independent stylist, you need to be detail-oriented and motivated because you're a one-woman show. You need the ability to network, do your own business development and marketing. You should also be extroverted, passionate, driven, and entrepreneurial.

how I got started | My first big job was with Gap, Inc., where I worked in Men's Merchandising for over five years. Before that, I worked many retail jobs and behind the scene at fashion shows. I started my business with business cards and I didn't skimp on them, because it makes a huge difference. It's very much noticed and remembered. I also advertised on Craig's List and hired a great person to do my website for me. I get a tremendous amount of positive feedback on it.

why this job?| I learned more about entrepreneurship when I worked at a dot-com for three years, and that inspired me to think about starting my own business. When I became pregnant with my first child I knew I wanted to have the ability to work, but still be around for my children. Hence, I followed my dream and became an independent wardrobe stylist and image consultant!

why I love this job!| I absolutely love that I work with fashion, but more importantly, I love that my job allows me to help people. It's deeper than just putting on clothes. You're giving them confidence. I'm all about my community and my family, so I also offer my services to different charities during the year.

my typical day| My hours vary, because I am open for the client. Recently, I did closets and took pictures with a new client and we took 3.5 hours. Everyone's closet is different. Other days I might be working on research for clients: doing massive research online, calling the store, getting sizes, sending links. Or I might be helping them shop.

what they are | It is tough to do it all! I manage, and I juggle. Not only do I work with my clients one on one, but I work on specific documents at home that allow them to reference back to all the information I have given them. I am constantly researching and reviewing. I have one child in school and one who is younger. Fortunately, I also have a lot of help from both grandparents.

all about growth | It can be. You have to be willing to work very hard to market yourself, network and do all of your business development. I have quite a few goals I would like to obtain. One is to continue to grow my business to new levels, but more importantly to more ability to give back to the community in different ways. I offer my services to different charities during the year, but I am looking for new ways for philanthropy work.

my website| http://www.sheaenglish.com