Today, as a part of our Behind the Seams with A.K. Rikk's series, we would like to introduce you to our Personal Shopper and Stylist, Gabriela Salais. Gabi will be assisting and styling clients so they leave happy and confident.  Get to know her on a personal level and find out about her fashion inspirations and outlook. 

What initially drew you to A.K. Rikk's?

I was drawn to the wonderful family-like atmosphere and uniqueness of the store. It’s not something that you would find just anywhere and to have this amazing place located in West Michigan is truly a gem!

What is your favorite part of working at A.K. Rikk's so far?

I love learning about the different brands and the different story behind each one and that’s what makes the store so special. I also love working with the team here. Everyone has their own unique flavor in life and I think that diversity within a team really makes a world of a difference. 

What have you learned this week at work?

I have learned the importance of brand knowledge and how to give each line, brand and piece of clothing its own identity. 

What is your favorite brand at A.K. Rikk’s?

I think that it changes every day for me honestly but I would say for women it's Rabanne currently. I love the mixed media within the collection, the different prints and the different fits of each garment. It truly encourages diversity. For men I really love Brunello Cucinelli. I love that the company embodies a family-like atmosphere and you can truly see that love within each garment.  

What is the first thing you notice about a person? 

It sounds cheesy but I think I’m drawn to both their clothes and then their eyes.

When you're not at work, what could we find you doing?

I love to make memories with my friends and family, so you might find me going out and trying new restaurants or bars. I also have taken up scrapbooking; all those pictures from making memories need a fun home! I love to thrift clothes and upcycle them into a fun new look that would best match my style as well.

How do you blow off stress? 

I love to journal so if I need to relieve some stress after hitting the pillow at night I write everything down. I find that having it on paper and not stuck in your mind makes a huge difference in life. I also enjoy going for walks to help with stress relief, being within nature can help make you feel really grounded. And of course some retail therapy never hurts every once in a while.

Who would you say is your number one fashion inspiration? 

I think that most of my fashion inspiration stems from my culture but with a modern twist. I’d also have to pay tribute to Pinterest. I love a classic look with some abstract twist. I’d admire the Audrey Hepburn classic look with a Zendaya sensual style.

What fashion questions keep you up at night? 

Why are crocs so popular? I am just not a fan. 

What’s your favorite weekend ritual? 

I love to naturally wake up and make coffee using my French press and spend time with my cat. 

What superhuman power would you choose? 

Invisibility. Sometimes I think it would be fun to walk around without anyone knowing. 

Who would you choose to play the main character in a movie of your life? 

Probably Jena Ortega. I love all the work she’s been doing in her films and I personally think we act alike too.

What is the most embarrassing piece of clothing you own? 

None! I have no regrets about my style.

If we scrolled through pictures on your phone, what would it mostly consist of? 

A mix between my cat (Winston), food pictures or outfit pictures. That pretty much sums up my life.

Favorite Instagram accounts?

I love @paudictado, @ketnipz and @iamtabithabrown. 

Are you reading any good books right now?  

I just finished The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz. It was absolutely fantastic.