Cindy Conde, 52New OrleansWorked for: First Bank and Trust, as vice president of sales
Bought in 2009: Total Woman, a high-end women's clothing store.
When the boutique's previous owner put the business up for sale, Conde took over, but she kept the former owner on as an employee.
Startup costs: $175,000
Revenue in 2011: $350,000
Salary in 2011: $50,000
Her advice for you: "Hire a team of professionals with a proven track record, who know the industry well and who already have solid relationships with clients and vendors."
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