Garmental

A Day In The Life: Cori McFadden

Rebecca Taras

You could say eDrop-Off founder Corri McFadden is somewhat of an overnight success story. After all, it's not every day that a college project — a business plan for a luxury consignment eBay store — turns into a multimillion dollar biz with 37 employees, including stylists, bloggers, and photographers.

While many bricks and mortar shops and boutiques may have been affected by the shaky economy, eDrop-Off brought in over $3 million in sales last year (that's over 50,000 drool-worthy luxury label items) and is trending to sell over $6 million this year. From designers and store owners, to low-key ladies who always wanted a piece of Chanel in their closet, eDrop-Off has a diverse (and stylish) clientele between their Lincoln Park storefront (2117 N. Halsted St., 773-525-7467), Gold Coast pop-up shop (1155 N. State St., 773-525-7467), and online arm.

With both looks and brains, it's no surprise that McFadden caught the attention of television network VH1, so stay tuned to see the savvy fashionista starring in a new reality series this Fall. The show will take viewers through the craziness of running what looks like a glamour only biz. Until then, (we promise to follow up with McFadden once the show airs) we've got an insider look into McFadden's life as she balances business, filming, and a social life.

– 6 a.m. : Hit the snooze button three times.

– 6:30 to 7:30 a.m. : Visit my email box for morning priority messages — typically 300 emails awaiting my reply!

– 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. : Meet my best enemy/friend at the gym. I have to love my trainer Kim!

– 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. : Beauty time. You know ladies: shower, hair, makeup, and the BEST part of the morning . . . raiding my closet!

– 10 a.m. : Arrive at my home away from home (eDrop-off) with my sidekicks Harley and Emma — my Yorkie-poos!

– 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.: Hit the office running; no day is ever the same! Edrop-off is filled with departments, including photography, copy writing, inventory, management marketing, social media, and client services. My hand is in everything and I pride myself in having a fun workplace that is filled with some of the most AMAZING fashion treasures (over 1,500 items sold each week!) Many days will include a closet clean. I love to go into a client's closet and help them be a voice of reason when separating from Chanel, Gucci, Prada, Oscar de la Renta, Marc Jacobs, and more. I also give advice on how to organize your closet, maximize your space, and showcase your special pieces.

– 7 to 8 p.m. : Social time! I try my best to stay involved and connected with the fashion community, whether it be a fun store party on Oak Street at one of my favorite stores like Sofia, (72 E. Oak St., 312-640-0878) or cocktails with the Style Tribe. I always make time to support Chicago fashion!

– 8 to 9 p.m. : Dinner with my LOVE Spiro, the best part of the day!

– 9 to 11 p.m : Sweep emails, launch auctions, and clean up any loose ends from the day.

– 11p.m. : It’s a wrap!