JULIE TENGDAHL
CEO
Julie Tengdahl is the owner of the award-winning fashion brand Tengdahl. With sustainability and ethical production at the centre of its values, Tengdahl has been Australian owned, designed and made since 1986. Find Julie and her beautiful designs upstairs in shop 21 of the Brisbane Arcade, or shop online at www.tengdahl.com.
Can you please tell us a little bit about your experience with Peter Sheppard Footwear and how long you’ve been involved with the business?
Being the designer for my own women's fashion brand Tengdahl for over 30 years means I definitely know of Peter Sheppard. Peter Sheppard Footwear is a true iconic leader in fashion-forward footwear, with exceptional service and quality you can trust.
What is your fondest memory of Peter Sheppard to date?
A memory that has stayed close to my heart is when we helped a beautiful client with a special occasion outfit at Tengdahl. She told us of her troubles finding shoes because of issues with her feet. She wanted to feel glamorous yet walk in comfort all day. We recommended Peter Sheppard to her and the team in Brisbane helped her select the perfect pair of shoes. The client had tears of happiness in her eyes when she was telling us how amazing she felt. A job well done, Peter Sheppard!
Through 2020 everyone was thrown their fair share of obstacles. How did you navigate your way through and what positive mantras helped you along the way?
My mantra is to stay focused on service. There is importance in listening to not only your own inner divine guidance but listening to others without judgement. Also, being grateful every day for the little things.
This year’s International Women’s Day theme is #ChooseToChallenge. What does this theme mean to you?
Life is always about how we deal with adversity, looking at each challenge with fresh eyes which gives us the opportunity to grow and glow. I spoke to my daughter the other day when she was feeling overwhelmed and I said, “life is happening for you, not to you”.
If you could provide a piece of advice for someone looking to follow in your footsteps, what would it be?
I always use climbing a mountain as my metaphor for life. Keep the focus on one step at a time. Help others along the way. The hardest climbs always lead to the greenest valleys.