Luxury shopping redefined: Glamorizta brings a personalised experience to Johannesburg

In a world where luxury often feels inaccessible, two Johannesburg entrepreneurs, Ahalya and Catherine, are turning the tables with their innovative business, Glamorizta.

Founded in 2020, this personalised shopping experience aims to bring the elegance and customer-centric approach of high-end shopping destinations like Paris and Milan directly to its clients in South Africa.

"At Glamorizta, the focus is on creating a unique and tailored shopping environment that prioritises individual client needs," Catherine told Business Report.

The business offers an array of authentic designer items from illustrious brands such as Hermès, Gucci, Burberry, and Prada, many of which are not available anywhere else in Africa.

This curated selection is complemented by a deep commitment to customer satisfaction; shopping with Glamorizta feels more like enjoying a luxurious experience rather than conducting a business transaction.

Ahalya and Catherine established Glamorizta as a passion project driven by their shared belief in the transformative power of luxury.

“We wanted to eliminate the barriers typically associated with high-end shopping,” Ahalya explained.

“Things like long queues, impersonal service, and soaring prices can detract from the joy of finding something special.”

Their mission is clear: to make luxury shopping aspirational yet attainable.

By providing clients the option to book private appointments, either in-store or online, Glamorizta has successfully created an intimate atmosphere where customers can browse in comfort, complete with refreshments.

Additionally, the innovative GlamPlan payment option allows customers to secure coveted items with a deposit and pay the balance in manageable installments, further enhancing accessibility to luxury goods.

As the pandemic shifted consumer habits, Glamorizta showcased resilience and adaptability. Just as Ahalya and Catherine prepared for launch, Covid-19 prompted the pair to transition from traditional in-person engagements to virtual appointments.

This unforeseen pivot turned out to be a revelation, evolving into a core component of their business model.

Virtual shopping sessions have not only attracted clients but also opened up new avenues such as GlamUp Live, their interactive shopping show on Instagram and YouTube, where customers can view live product drops and shop instantly via WhatsApp.

Despite the flourishing demand for luxury items, the business environment is not without challenges.

Rising living costs continue to impact consumers, yet the allure of luxury remains steadfast. “The demand for high-end products is still strong,” Catherine noted, which is why initiatives like GlamPlan are critical in ensuring customers can indulge without financial strain.

Ultimately, Glamorizta embodies a fusion of luxury and accessibility, offering Johannesburg residents a personal touch in a market that is often overly commercialised.

As they continue to chart their course through the ever-changing landscape, Ahalya and Catherine invite shoppers to experience the joy of luxury without the traditional constraints.

“Everyone deserves a piece of luxury in their lives,” Ahalya asserted, underscoring the very essence of what Glamorizta stands for.

BUSINESS REPORT