Interview with Executive Stylist/CEO of Style & Travel Daily Mark Hillery

Mark, is the one you would want on your team to take your style to the next level. He is definitely a walking billboard for all men who needs an image upgrade. When I decide to do the men edition of the series, he was definitely in the top 5. As you read his interview, you will see why he is the feature of the week.

Tell us about Mark Hillery. How did you get started?

I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t attracted to fashion and the importance image plays in how people perceive and respond to you. My hobby was heightened when I received the opportunity to serve as the lead instructor for a men’s image course created by my mentor, Dr. Stacia Pierce. Through the role of image course instructor, I realized my own personal style and created engaging ways to motivate men to develop their own personal style, while helping to build their confidence. From teaching the classes, I caught the bug to take it to a larger platform and actually began creating products and services designed to help men and young men alike.

What was the influence or the motivation behind creating your brand?

My brand was actually birthed while in a VIP Day with my now Business Coach, Stacia Pierce as I shared with her my desire to help men enjoy their best life. The motivation of helping men win in life because they have a polished image, focus and a sense of style that conveys confidence and opens doors of opportunity because they know what how to navigate the career maze and win! My desire is to help as many people as possible. My motivation is seeing young men teaching others after they have had an opportunity to attend one of my image courses. I have been very fortunate and I’m always willing to pay-it forward!

Being that you are an Executive Stylist. What would you say is your biggest challenge when styling a client?

As a healthcare executive, I have been afforded the chance to observe men in the C-suite and how they dress, interact and how they project their professional image. My biggest challenge is the all important balancing act that comes into play when I’m styling a client and coaching them on the journey of discovery their own personal style, if they know it. I also help them tweak the style once I know their personal goals and career aspirations. I have to be careful not to expect everyone to be a Sporty Classic, such as myself. My biggest challenge is giving the client the room to interpret his style and not making them feel compelled to dress similar to me. I love my personal style, but that might not work for a recent college graduate with a knack for very slim-fitted suits. So, we develop a style that is unique to their current role and of course within their price-point.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to started their own business or brand?

My advice would be to discover what you really enjoy doing; and making sure that the path forward is authentic to you. Protect your brand and personal image so that you never lose credibility. More importantly, seek the advice of a professional business coach and expert as you begin to create your brand and prepare to scale it. Aspiring entrepreneurs should commit themselves to life-long personal development so that they remain relevant.

What’s next for Mark Hillery?

In the near future, I’ll be launching The Style & Travel Daily Power Guide. This e-book gives extremely helpful style tips to men that are interested in closet edits and creating their ideal wardrobe. The book will also list our preferred vendors and brands that we recommend to our clients while styling them for special events. I am also in the process of launching my online style and influence academy to coach both men and boys on the go! This promises to be an amazing year for Style & Travel Daily and I really appreciate the opportunity to share my background and future plans on your blog! Thanks Tracie for asking me what’s next!