Woo Caroland, owner of Woo Skincare+Cosmetics, expanded from her Nashville base to Atlanta four years ago through a partnership with Linda Silber. With Woo Skincare+Cosmetics Atlanta celebrating its 4 year anniversary, we wanted to find out more about the lady behind the namesake store that has become the go-to beauty source for many of us. Have you wondered who this Woo lady was? Keep reading…and be sure to stop by Woo Atlanta this month, as there will be specials all months long!
What brought you to Nashville?
My husband, Trey Caroland, is from Nashville. We were living in New York, had a one year old, and decided to move to a place that is more kid friendly. Nashville was the obvious choice.
You’re a native Texan. How is Tennessee different from Texas, and is it true that once a Texan, always a Texan?
Texas never leaves a person who was born up there, the Texas spirit is like no where else in the US. Texas has a frontier attitude, with a gamble-like, courageous spirit. There is less history in Texas than the South and more of an inclination for trying risky things. Tennessee seems more historic and truly Southern.
What was your career path before Woo Skincare + Cosmetics?
Anything visual. I worked in the art world in New York at various art galleries during the 80’s, then worked in the art department at Vanity Fair magazine.
Woo organizing the Bobbi Brown collection
How long did it take for you to realize that this business would make it? Immediately? Or did it take time?
There was never a question whether it was going to make it or not; it simply was going to make it.
What is your favorite thing about owning a cosmetics and skincare store?
The daily challenges. Every single day is different. I love serving the customer and making sure they have a fun experience–shopping should be fun!!
What makes shopping at Woo a unique experience?
I believe a lot of stores today, most of which are chains, have lost the entertainment value that shopping used to have when I was growing up. Going to Neimans in downtown Dallas was truly a magical experience, and I believe this is lost today. Shopping at Woo is a fun alternative to the department store, the mall and the chain store. We work hard to create the relationship with the customer and having a fun time.
With locations in Nashville and Atlanta, do you think about expanding more?
Absolutely. Women want an alternative to the department store/mall environment. It’s a joy to be able to offer that alternative.
How are the Atlanta markets and Nashville markets similar and different?
What is it like having a business partner and co-owner of the Atlanta store?
Linda and I are a perfect left/right brain combo. I bring lots of creativity to the mix, while Linda (who comes from the vendor side, having worked many years at Estee Lauder for Origins, Clinique and Bobbi Brown) connects that with a clear sense of “how does this sell?” and “how does this work?” Our partnership is a fabulous case of the whole being greater than the sum of its parts.
What are your favorite restaurants in Atlanta?
What books can be found on your bedside table or kindle?
Blood, Bones and Butter by Gabrielle Hamilton.
What is your one “must-have” purchase for fall 2012?
I generally do not buy on trend. I love, love beautifully designed clothes–always!
What is the last movie you saw at the theater?
The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel.
What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?
Change is scary, but one must go through change in order to progress in life.
What one place would you suggest that everyone visit, if they could?
Paris or Rome, it’s a toss up.
Name three things you can’t live without (Besides God, Family and Friends):
- My sleep machine
- Art
- Superior food
Thank you Woo! Join Woo Skincare + Cosmetics during their anniversary celebration on Oct 10th. For details, click here.
Photos today by Ashley Hylbert photography. For more photos from today’s FACES, click here.
