Meet Magda Guth | Designer Goods Curator & Consignment Brand Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Magda Guth and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Magda, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I’ve worked for a handful of companies within the fashion field, and I’ve always thought how much I could excel on my own from my learnings and experience with these companies. Some were huge international brands and others were small start ups. That has given me a wide range of skills from multi-unit management, big budgets, and mass clientele, to starting from scratch, learning as you go, and very little budget. I’ve always been a confident person and thought “I can easily be in that role”, or “I can build something like that”. So, I did! I like the fact that I only answer to myself and I am responsible for my path moving forward. Bonus, although I work a lot of hours, I can still flex when and where I can get my tasks done. With a husband, two young sons, and three dogs… this is the ideal way to manage a life and work schedule.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Matilda Lake Secondary is my brand through which I curate and sell designer and luxury fashion. It is also a consignment business in which I take on clients who are looking to lighten up their closets while earning money.

What I am most proud of is that my brand focuses on contemporary and vintage designer and luxury items. Fashion is a timeless connection to the past, a celebration of the present, and an investment in the future. It should stand the test of time in its quality, design, and environmental impact. It’s about quality over quantity. The majority of my collection is in excellent or near-excellent condition. Each unique piece tells a story from person to person.

I’ve learned along the way to not compare myself to other brands. Everyone started from something different and carved their own paths. Focus your time on your path and don’t waste it thinking that other businesses are better than yours. Be your own worst enemy, challenge yourself to be the best.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I am a fan of old school Raleigh, before the city started building upwards into the sky.

My faves…

Restaurants and bars:
The Raleigh Times – great atmosphere, food, and beer
Zenith – favorite place to dance and great customer service
The Anchor, The Haymaker, Person Street, Landmark Tavern – smaller bars with big hearts and history
The Cardinal – hotdogs, beer, and pinball… need I say more?

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My husband, Kyle, for his patience over the last few years while I develop my business. My best friend, Jill, who is a PR Queen and doesn’t charge me! My besties Emily, Stephanie, and Nikki who trusted me and became my first clients. Julie, a closet organizing professional, who has connected me with the majority of my current clients.

Instagram: instagram.com/matildalakesecondary

Other: TikTok.com/@matildalakesecondary