The zany, zigzagging aesthetic of legendary British punk fashion designer Zandra Rhodes takes center stage at HGO. The company presents Bizet’s Pearl Fishers (Jan. 25-Feb. 8) with colorful, bejeweled costumes and sets designed by the hot-pink-haired Rhodes, who previously worked with HGO on Aida. She will release a memoir in 2019, recalling adventures in dressing icons like Princess Di and Freddie Mercury.
How did you get to where you are today? My journey to where I am today is built on a foundation of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Every step along the way, I faced obstacles, but I approached each one with determination and a “never give up” mindset. Instead of being discouraged by challenges, I used them as opportunities to grow and improve. Consistency was key—I committed to showing up and giving my best effort every day. I also learned not to take “no” as a final answer. Instead, I saw it as a chance to push harder, adapt, and find another way forward. It’s this combination of persistence, resilience, and unwavering focus that has brought me to where I am today.
Who do you credit? I owe a great deal of credit to several important figures in my life. First, my mother, who instilled in me the value of hard work from an early age, played a significant role in shaping my work ethic. My father, an entrepreneur, also had a profound impact, teaching me the importance of dedication and perseverance through his own experiences. Additionally, I’ve been fortunate to have a handful of mentors who, often without me even realizing it at the time, contributed to my understanding of what it means to work hard and stay committed to my goals. Their guidance has been invaluable in shaping the person I am today.
What lessons have you learned that might enlighten and inspire others? One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is to never fall into the mindset of being a victim, regardless of the challenges you face. Life will present difficulties, but it’s crucial to rise above them and take control of your own story. Instead of dwelling on setbacks or making excuses, choose to stand tall and approach every situation with the mindset of a victor. Adopting this attitude allows you to move forward, take responsibility, and achieve success, no matter the obstacles in your path.
What’s new in your life or work that you’re excited about? I’m really excited about continuing to leverage my social media platforms to inspire and motivate people. My Instagram, where I’ve built a community of over 1 million followers, and my YouTube channel, which has earned a plaque for surpassing 100,000 subscribers, are both great outlets for spreading positivity and guidance. Additionally, I’m thrilled about my private online community, The Vault, where I offer live group coaching sessions to like-minded individuals. Through this platform, I’m able to help people achieve their next level of success, whether in their personal lives or in business. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of their growth and transformation.
Murry & Karen Penner, Owners, M PENNER
How did you get where you are today? We’ve stayed true to the vision of the store’s founder, Morris Penner, who relentlessly sought out unique product, with exceptional quality being a key element. Morris always used to say, “The fastest way to lose a customer is to bore him” and we agree. A percentage of every season’s budget is allocated to something new and unique. While product is key, it’s not enough. Having an excellent staff and discipline in business practices is also critical.
Whom do you credit? MP: I guess I could say that retail is in my blood. My grandfathers on both sides owned men’s clothing stores and my dad opened M PENNER in 1974, so a great deal of credit goes to them. Dad had incredible vision and created a unique niche in Houston’s menswear landscape in the mid 1970’s by focusing on European fashion brands and styles. He quickly became known as a maverick in the industry, bucking the predominantly “American brand trend” of the time. A great deal of credit also goes to the people who work with us, from the sales team to the tailor shop. I also credit Karen and my son, Jeremy, whose dedication keeps us grounded and focused.
What is it like running a family-owned business? Chaos. But seriously, through ups and downs, for us, it’s the best of the best. We get to set the tone and define the culture of the business. Our employees are our family and we treat our clients like family, too. There is a noticeable warmth that permeates the atmosphere at M PENNER and we love that. When you run a family owned business, the bottom line is clear - the buck stops with us.
What lessons have you learned that might enlighten and inspire others? While running a family business certainly can be chaotic, the truth is that it is also very gratifying. And that’s because we have learned a few important lessons. Have clearly defined roles and be clear about who makes the final decision. Find your niche in the market and stay in your lane. Clarify your goals and refer to them repeatedly to stay on track. Hire great people; trust them and let them shine. Stash the cash - in our 50-year history, there have been great years and there have been tough years. Keep enough money in the bank to help get through the tough years. Pay attention to the details. Don’t sweat the small stuff.
What is your biggest accomplishment? MP: It goes backwards and it goes forwards - being in business for 50 years and carrying on the legacy of my dad’s vision and now working with my son in the store. Being known in the men’s specialty store industry as one of the best stores in the country is extremely gratifying. We can’t wait to celebrate our 50th in December!