With Over 25 Years of Fashion Industry Experience, Brett Glickman Seeks Unique and Beautiful Items and Accessories
Q: Tell us about your business and what you offer.
BG: She.Her is a local boutique dedicated to supporting women on their pleasure journey. Our shop is located in San Francisco's historical Fillmore District neighborhood and offers a curated selection of exquisite lingerie and pleasure products. Each item is thoughtfully sourced from female-founded and family-owned businesses, ensuring care and authenticity. Our mission is to provide a serene and inclusive environment centered around self-care. She.Her encourages her journey of self-discovery and self-fulfillment.
Q: You’re in your late 50s and the store is your second career of sorts. Tell us why you decided to embark on this new journey.
BG: With over 25 years dedicated to R&D, innovation, and product development, I began my journey at Levi Strauss & Co. as a job share, balancing a career with raising our children. Through dedication, perseverance, and the support of incredible mentors, I steadily rose to executive roles within the company.
However, amidst my corporate trajectory, I discerned a void within the retail landscape, particularly in women’s intimate and pleasure-focused products. Traditional offerings consisted primarily of mass-produced lingerie, devoid of personalized touches. Similarly, the market for vibrators and related items lacked approachability and was dominated by impersonal platforms and intimidating adult toy shops.
In response, I envisioned a lovely boutique experience free from embarrassment or judgment where women and those who love them could openly and comfortably explore and discuss their desires without inhibition.
Q: What is your goal with She.Her, and who is the audience that you’re targeting?
BG: She.Her welcomes everyone. Our curated lingerie helps you look and feel beautiful. Step into our serene, non-judgmental boutique, embrace your true self, and begin your journey to pleasure.
Q: For someone who has never been a customer of the store, what would you say to them to bring them in? What is the mission you want to be known for?
BG: At She.Her, we're committed to offering beautiful quality and affordability in a personal shopping experience. Our store is a welcoming, inclusive environment—come as you are and feel free to ask questions. We strive to make She.Her a place where everyone can look and feel wonderful with our pretty and practical products.
Q: Tell us about your next steps and plans for the future of your business?
BG: When I discovered a space for lease just a block from my house, I knew I wanted to create a retail experience unlike anything in today's market. I opened She.Her last fall and have loved every moment of this journey. We have many repeat neighborhood customers and new ones discovering us every day. Engaging with our Bay Area community is very important to us, and we look forward to participating in local events this summer
Q: What is one word of advice you can offer to young women who want to reach your level of success?
BG: Never settle for mediocre. In my career, I experienced a period of deep unhappiness and depression shaped by experiences that I had over the course of recent years. Institutions that I once held in high esteem failed our society, and I faced a crisis of faith. I saw these institutions as hypocritical and self-serving, and I knew that I could not stay the status quo. Sometimes, you know you deserve more and if you go searching for it, you’ll find yourself on the right path.
Q: Can you tell our audience one of your most memorable moments of your career?
BG: The most memorable—and pivotal—moment in my career came in 2022 when I told my family and close friends that I was making a significant change. At 56-years-old, I decided it was time to step away from my executive career to start a neighborhood boutique. Even though I didn't have a detailed business plan, I knew it was my dream to create a place where everyone left feeling better than when they arrived.
Q: What advice would you give to young women who want to succeed in the workplace?
BG: Having the opportunity to be a mentor is incredible as I love connecting with the business leaders of tomorrow. I firmly believe that the best mentee and mentor relationships shift even within a conversation. We each bring our own experiences and perspectives. I learned from one of my previous mentees to treat customers with empathy, even when it’s challenging. Getting to know your customers and really listening to them can shape the future of success.
Q: After high school, where did you feel your career path would take you?
BG: I always knew that I was interested in fashion. When an opportunity at Levi Strauss & Co. opened up, I knew that it was my calling. And I was right – I spent 25 years there without glancing backwards. I only decided it was time for a new adventure when I had the idea to create She.Her, a new kind of retail experience.
Q: Can you tell us how you manage your work-life balance?
BG: My family keeps me grounded! The store is my passion and I love making improvements and adding new things, but I also know that I have a husband and children waiting for me at home. The store is open during prime foot traffic hours (Tuesday through Saturday, 11am-5pm and Sunday from Noon until 4pm). This gives me the chance to optimize the business as well as giving our employees the opportunity for a stable work-life balance as well.
Five Things About Brett Glickman
1. Among your friends, what are you best known for?
They think I am fearless; I think I am filled with fear but ignore it.
2. What is your favorite app on your phone?
ChatGPT
3. Best and worst flavor ice cream?
The best are the classics – vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry. The worst is anything too complicated.
4. What is the most spontaneous thing you’ve done?
Left an executive career to start She.Her
5. Do you read reviews, or just go with your gut?
I go with my gut and then read reviews and fret over my difference in opinions.