Ramona McNeil was employed in the legal aid field when cutbacks in funding in 2002 closed her office forcing her to look for other employment.  Getting another 'job' wasn't an option for Ramona who had always wanted to open her own clothing store.  When the opportunity arose, her husband said, "If you don't do it now when you have the chance, I don't want to hear another word about it."  So, Ramona researched the opportunities and realized that in order to improve her chances of success, she needed a business plan and the coaching and support from like-minded and entrepreneurial people.

Ramona had read about the 'SEEDS' program and decided that she needed the assistance that they could offer her.  She enrolled in the Program and graduated on February 14, 2003, opening the doors to her new business on April 21^st the same year.

Les Grandes Dames is a consignment store specifically targeting full-figured women.  The store accepts only gently worn or new quality clothing and accessories on consignment for a 90-day period.  If the clothing sells within the contract time, consignees have the option of either receiving 40% of the selling price of their items or 50% in the form on an in-store shopping credit.  At the end of their contracts, unsold items may be picked up or donated.  Donated items are moved to a clearance rack and the proceeds are donated to local charities such as Surrey Women's Shelter, Attira Women's Resources, Surrey Food Bank and many others.

Ramona says that while losing her 'job' was traumatic, it enabled her to realize her long-time dream of starting and running her own business.  Since opening the store, bonds have been formed with a wide variety of people including consignees and buyers, and giving back to the community has brought her a sense of incredible peace.  Ramona credits her success on an understanding and supportive husband; spiritual principles and a good business plan.