Ying and Marny are the out-front, behind-the-scenes gals who keep the cogs and wheels of their respective shops running smoothly. “We do a little bit of everything: customer service, inventory, sizing, cashiering,” explains Ying, who has a degree in geology but prefers working in a people-oriented setting. “Our customers come from all over the world and they’re interesting, interested women.” Marny is in environmental studies at Carleton University. “I’m so happy that we carry several eco-friendly lines made with renewable fabric like bamboo, hemp or organic cotton,” she says. “And lots of natural fibres like silk and linen.” Both enjoy working in an environment where being pleasant is paramount.