Interview with Anna Billings: A Story of Fashion, Leadership, and Community

In the bustling heart of Las Vegas, where the neon lights never sleep, I had the honor of interviewing Anna Billings, a distinguished leader in the fashion industry. As the manager of the Anne Fontaine boutique, Anna has carved out a niche for herself with a journey that is a tapestry woven with threads of determination, passion, and an unwavering commitment to community. Her story is not just about fashion; it’s about the people who have inspired her, the challenges she has overcome, and the vibrant culture she fosters within her store.

My encounter with Anna Billings, General Manager at Anne Fontaine Store

Anna's journey began fifteen years ago with a pivotal moment that would shape her career and leadership style. She recalls, "The first time I was asked to do a fashion show for Clark County Medical Alliance, it was a turning point for me. We were able to raise money for a foundation, and we did really well. I thought to myself, this is something I need to do. Women love to shop, and if they know they’re giving back to the community, it’s a win-win for both of us." This realization transformed her business approach, infusing philanthropy into her entrepreneurial spirit.

Within the Anne Fontaine boutique, Anna upholds guiding principles that foster a vibrant and inclusive culture. "I have to have a team that believes the same way I do, that we have to make it fun in the boutique. I am not someone that micromanages. I find strong women in things that I’m not capable of and that are outside of my skill set. For example, Ellie, who is excellent with computers and organization, keeps me on point," she shares. Anna's team is a mosaic of diverse talents and backgrounds, each member bringing a unique perspective to the table.

Her recruitment process is unconventional yet effective. "I don’t go to locations in the mall to recruit women. Talent can be found anywhere. Ellie came from a Halloween store, Olga from a fashion show attendee, and Yanni from a Mexican restaurant where she was a photographer," Anna explains. This approach has helped her build a team that is passionate, diverse, and deeply committed to the brand.

Reflecting on her teenage years, Anna's love for fashion was evident early on. "I always liked fashion, and I think that came from my mom. She always had red nails and lipstick. My grandmother was very well put together. I think I was born with high heels," she reminisces with a laugh. Her journey took her through various roles, from a small shop in California to a luxury western wear store in Las Vegas, each experience adding a new layer to her expertise.

Anna's path to leadership was marked by significant milestones. She worked for Christine’s Agassi in San Antonio, where her boss encouraged her to train others in customer service. "I loved doing fashion shows back then. My boss sent me to Harry Friedman’s training classes and Disney World for customer service training," she recounts. This foundation paved the way for her success in managing 23 stores and leading large training sessions.

Her move to Las Vegas introduced her to the world of luxury fashion at Caché and later Mondi. "Caché was failing when I joined, but we turned it around. Mondi introduced me to luxury fashion, where jackets were $800-$900. It was a different ball field," she explains. Her experience working at La Perla further honed her skills, understanding the intricacies of high-end fashion and customer engagement.

At Anne Fontaine, Anna's leadership is driven by personal motivations and a desire to be number one. "If I’m going to be in the boutique and working for a company, I need to be number one. My girls know where they stand at all times and there are rewards for the highest sales," she says. Her approach has earned her recognition and rewards from Anne Fontaine herself, fostering a sense of pride and motivation within the team.

With the renown Fashion Designer Anne Fontaine and Anna Billings

Anna's ability to engage clients goes beyond sales. She builds lasting relationships by taking a genuine interest in their lives. "I always ask my ladies what kind of charities they are involved in. It’s an opportunity to let them know if they need me to host an event or be part of something like St. Jude’s or Women United," she explains. Her active involvement in the community ensures that Anne Fontaine remains a respected and beloved brand.

As for the future, Anna is excited about upcoming trends and fashion shows. "For the summer, Anne is doing a lot of color, lightweight linens, greens, pinks, and reds. It’s all very fun and light," she reveals. Major events include fashion shows for St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital and the Children’s Heart Association, as well as a private art exhibit and fashion show in New York.

Anna's story is one of resilience, innovation, and a deep connection to her community. Her journey from a fashion enthusiast to a leader in the industry is a testament to her dedication and vision. As she continues to inspire her team and engage her clients, Anna Billings remains a shining example of what it means to lead with heart and style in the world of fashion.