Here’s a fun interview with a Clothes Mentor store associate in Fargo, North Dakota. Even for a casual, fun look, Clothes Mentor is a great place to shop for gently-used, like-new pieces. In fact, no matter what your style – Clothes Mentor offers great pieces for all women! Source: inforum.com If she could trade closets with anyone, Emma Ilvedson would choose Gwyneth Paltrow. Paltrow’s ability to look classic or trendy, dressy or casual appeals to Ilvedson. But the 20-year-old is quick to say she’s not a fan of the celebrity’s cringe-worthy quotes. I spotted Ilvedson downtown and could see why she covets Paltrow’s cool (yes, I said that), relaxed yet polished style. Ilverdson, who works at Clothes Mentor in Fargo, shared that she’s a style chameleon and bases her look on her mood. Describe your style. It depends on the day. I can look put-together or grungy. What’re you wearing today? Everything is from Clothes Mentor (a women’s resale clothing store). I have gray Converse Chuck Taylor shoes, Joe’s Jeans skinny jeans, a J. Crew shirt and necklace, Coach bag and Gap button-up shirt. Where do you shop? Clothes Mentor, J.Crew and Gap. What’s your favorite thing in your closet right now? My necklaces. Statement necklaces make a plain outfit cute. What’s the best style advice you know? It never hurts to look nice. You’ll have a better day. Who’s your style icon? Kendall Jenner. Her style is laid-back but cute. If you had an unlimited amount of money to spend on one fashion-related item, what would you buy? A set of Louis Vuitton luggage. Heels or flats? Both. Flats for day, usually. Do you have any fashion regrets? Anything I wore before college. What’s your favorite summer trend? Birkenstocks. I own six pairs. What’re the most timeless things a woman can own? Polka dots, Converse shoes and great-fitting skinny jeans.
Emma Ilvedson’s closet is stocked with skinny jeans and sneakers. Anna G. Larson / The Forum
Michelle Vaudrin is the Senior Director of Operations for Children’s Orchard and Clothes Mentor. Before joining Children’s Orchard in 2016, she worked in leadership roles for Burlington, American Eagle, and Macy’s.
Michelle attended the University of Wisconsin-Stout with a Retail Merchandising and Business Administration degree. She brings an extensive background in training in strategies, merchandising, customer service, and multi-unit store operations to the team.
Jenny Mann
Vice President of Operations | Executive Director of IT
Jenny Mann is the Vice President of Operations for Clothes Mentor and Children’s Orchard. In January of 2020, Jenny also took on the role of Executive Director of IT, overseeing BST, our Point of Sale system, and the e-commerce platforms for both brands. Prior to this, Jenny was the Director of Marketing for NTY Franchise Company since January 2013. Jenny started with the NTY Franchise Company in 2008 with Clothes Mentor and has held many roles, including; Store Manager, New Store Opener, and Regional Operations Manager. Before joining NTY Franchise Company, Jenny worked for Old Navy (Gap, Inc.) and Target in management roles.
Chad Olson
Chief Operations Officer
Chad Olson has been Chief Operations Officer of NTY Franchise Company since January 2007. From May 1994 to December 2006, he held various positions for Winmark Corporation (f/k/a Grow Biz International, Inc.), including Field Operations Manager for the Once Upon a Child concept from 1999 to 2002, and Regional Operations Manager for the Plato’s Closet concept from 2002 to 2006.
Sean Marrs
IT/Tech Administrator
IT/Tech Administrator
Marissa Stacy
Jr. Graphic Designer
Jr. Graphic Designer
Ashlyn Aarness
Social Media Specialist
Social Media Specialist
Ashley Huebner
Director of Marketing
Ashley Huebner oversees Children’s Orchard’s marketing and advertising efforts to drive sales, build brand awareness, and lead the planning on how to market the brand effectively. She leads creative initiatives by driving the brands’ vision in aesthetics, tone, and trends to elevate our brand position as a leader in the resale category.
Ashley joined the Children’s Orchard team in 2015. Ashley has 10+ years of Graphic Design experience. Ashley holds a strong background in design, user experience, and a passion for creativity. She holds a BA degree in Advertising and Art.