Every now and then it can almost feel like destiny that two people meet, at the right time and in the right place.
That seems true for Jan McMillan and Jeanette Schwarze, the pair first meeting each other while working together at a now defunct Geelong-based business.
Jan explains how their subsequent friendship went on to change the course of their lives – and in the process now caters to clothes-loving, fashion-conscious women living in seven widespread coastal locations.
“Jeanette and I discovered we shared a past, both of us having worked years ago at Myer – one as an Apparel Buyer and the other as a Store Operations Leader,” Jan says. “We also found that our skills and experience were complementary, and we shared similar goals and business ethics.
“When the 30-year-old business (Beach Club) closed its 13 outlets – including our workplace – due to the owner’s retirement, we immediately saw an opportunity to start our own business and rebrand six of the shops, launching a brand-new one in Barwon Heads as well.
“We’re now collectively Beach & Bay, delivering a fab range of quality clothing that women love for its classic quality and comfort, especially suited for casual coastal life.”
The dynamic duo loved the challenge of starting the new business, especially when they were able to save 18 terrific team members from redundancy and enabling them to continue close relationships formed with loyal customers.
Jan and Jeanette, passionate about all things clothes and accessories, were also committed to providing great brands.
“We carry the Yarra Trail, Foil, Jump and Betty Basics labels, for example, as well as clothing from our own Beach & Bay label. Think lovely linens, stylish tops and pants, dresses oozing style and comfort, the perfect sweater…
“We continue to add exciting on-trend clothes and accessories, and the pieces we select complement each other. This makes it easy for our customers to put pieces together, leaving our stores with a cohesive look and that wonderful ‘whole new outfit’ feeling.”
All of the stores adhere to strict COVID-safe protocols, the super-friendly service and advice is exceptional, and the shopping experience is exciting – never a chore.
Ahhh … the beach and bay life.
BEACH & BAY STORES
Barwon Heads: 56b Hitchcock Avenue,
Barwon Heads.
Inquiries: 5254 2368
Belmont: 166 High Street, Belmont.
Inquiries: 5243 1531
Highton: 3 Bellevue Arcade, Highton.
Inquiries: 5243 9753
Mornington: 38 Main Street, Mornington.
Inquiries: 5975 7955
Queenscliff: 58 Hesse Street, Queenscliff.
Inquiries: 5258 3669
Torquay: 30 Gilbert Street, Torquay.
Inquiries: 5261 5055
Warrnambool: 108 Liebig Street, Warrnambool.
Inquiries: 5561 5232
