Today we’d like to introduce you to Holly Miller.
Hi Holly , so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
After years managing big-box stores, I stepped away from retail when my first daughter—now 18—was born. My husband and I decided that being a stay-at-home mom was the right choice for our family, and over the next decade, as we welcomed two more daughters (now 15 and 11), that became my full-time world.
Twelve years later, once all three girls were in school, I felt ready to re-enter the workforce. With retail still in my bones, I applied for a part-time assistant manager role at our small town’s university bookstore, then operated by Follett. I was hired and spent six short months there before the store closed its doors.
But the story didn’t end there. When Baker University took back management of the store, I was hired as the full-time store manager and buyer for the newly created Wildcat Wearhouse, which would replace the former bookstore. After a modest renovation, I had just two short weeks to open a brand new store, which included selecting and stocking enough merchandise to open in time for summer orientations. The inventory was lean, but it did the job—and the doors opened on schedule.
Since then, the store has grown year after year, both in size and in the variety of products we offer. As the buyer, I get to listen directly to customers—students, parents, alumni, community members—and respond to what they want. Under the old third-party system, that feedback rarely made it into the store’s assortment. Now, with buying handled in-house, we have the freedom to adapt, experiment, and truly serve our community. It has been a rewarding evolution to be part of.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Retail is rarely a smooth road, and I’ve definitely faced my share of challenges along the way. One of the biggest hurdles has been navigating vendor issues—products that arrive late, shipments that fall short of what was promised, or merchandise that shows up defective and can’t be sold at all. Those situations can throw an entire season off balance.
Staffing presents its own challenges as well, as it does in most retail environments. But over time, those issues usually work themselves out, and we find the right rhythm again. Each obstacle has taught me something new and pushed me to become more adaptable, patient, and resourceful in how I run the store.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I wear a lot of hats in the store—manager, buyer, merchandiser, social media person, website creator and updater, and overall operations coordinator. Susan, my part-time assistant, partners with me on merchandising and often takes the lead on the floor when I’m focused on buying. Most of my day-to-day revolves around selecting new artwork, approving designs, and working with vendors to develop items our customers will love.
I’m incredibly proud of how far the store has come. Looking back at where it was four years ago and seeing what the space has become today is truly rewarding. When customers who haven’t visited since the old store walk back in, their surprise is one of my favorite parts of the job. Hearing them say how much better it looks now—and how much more variety we offer—means a lot.
What sets us apart is the variety and constant rotation of our designs, paired with a space that always feels neat, organized, and intentionally curated. Even with a small team—just me, one part-time employee and a few student workers—we put real care into keeping the store fresh, inviting, and consistently well-presented.
How do you think about happiness?
I’m happiest when I’m with my husband and kids, whether we’re out doing errands, shopping together or just relaxing at home. I’m a big believer in enjoying the simple things—slow moments, cozy days, and anything that lets me unwind.
At work, my favorite moments are when my team or I get to really connect with customers. I love when we can brighten someone’s day, make them feel valued, or simply listen as they share memories from their time here. We have so many alumni who stop by just to browse and reminisce, and hearing their stories is one of the most rewarding parts of my job.
Pricing:
- T-shirts $15.99-$30
- Sweatshirts $40-$65
- Hats $22-$30
- Accessories & Gifts $3.99 & up
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bakerU.edu/wearhouse
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/baker_wildcat_wearhouse
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/BakerWildcatWearhouse
