Meet a member: Brandy Ann Fiala
Brandy Ann Fiala is the furrier and owner of Eilers Furs, a nearly 100-year-old business that she purchased last year. There are plans to expand the Sioux Falls storefront to online sales and fur rentals. A North Dakota native, Brandy moved south to attend college and has proudly called Sioux Falls home ever since. She earned an MBA from the University of Sioux Falls and has business development experience in both non-profit and corporate sectors. Brandy and her two sons, Kristofferson (11) and Cason (8), share their home with two dogs and three cats.
1. What led you to become a small business owner?
I have always dreamed of owning my own business. After working in marketing and development for two decades, I wanted the freedom and ability to really challenge myself and watch my efforts directly affect my family and community. Furs and nature are something I am passionate about, which made this industry an easy decision.
2. What is the best piece of advice you have received?
My long-time mentor once told me that to feel successful all you need to do is set a goal, decide to achieve that goal, follow the plan and repeat. I try to remember that and take that theory to every level of life from personal to professional.
3. What is your favorite cold-weather activity?
I wear fur to stay warm and feel fabulous! I really do love a blustery snowstorm and being hunkered down either at home with my boys, staying warm and watching movies or at a local tavern with good people, music and laughter.
4. Name a tool you could not live without. Why?
My antique sewing machines are the heart of my business!
5. If you could witness any event of the past, present or future, what would it be?
To see Elvis perform at a small-town county fair, or any of the classics before they knew they were going to become musical legends.
6. What might someone be surprised to learn about you?
I am extremely shy. Most would laugh at this because I appear extremely outgoing, but I am a creature of habit and thrive in comfortable environments.
7. Why does your company choose to be a Chamber member?
Working in the Sioux Falls community for over two decades I knew the importance of Eilers maintaining its support and commitment to the community. Chamber involvement is a fantastic way to highlight that.
8. What is your favorite way to spend a day in Sioux Falls?
My favorite way to spend a day in Sioux Falls is taking my boys out to lunch or enjoying live music with friends.
9. What is one community or non-profit organization that you support? Tell us about it and why it is important to you.
The Childrens Inn of Sioux Falls has always held a special place in my heart for the assistance they gave to my sister when she was leaving a domestic hardship. There are so many women and children who feel they have no hope. This organization not only inspires hope but offers a fighting chance for survival.
10. What is a skill that you’d like to learn and why?
I would like to learn to play the violin again. I played as a child and would live to pick up the hidden talent again, I think it could be therapeutic stress relief!