“Otherwise I would get bored”
- Even at 85, she is fully engaged in her professional life, running her fashion boutique in Baden, Austria.
- Wazda's pathway to business ownership was not straightforward.
- She moved to Canada where she worked in various capacities—journalist, media consultant, and even as a news spokesperson for German television programs.
85-Year-Old Entrepreneur Defies Age Stereotypes, Opens Fashion Boutique
In Brief
- Eva Wazda, 85, opened a fashion boutique in Baden five years ago and was recognized at the 2024 Founder Prize.
- Born in Vienna, Wazda lived in Canada for 40 years, working as a journalist and media consultant before returning to Austria.
- Wazda runs ‘Eva Moden,’ offering unique fashion and staying active through travel and social media.
Retirement isn’t on the agenda for Eva Wazda. Even at 85, she is fully engaged in her professional life, running her fashion boutique in Baden, Austria. Wazda established “Eva Moden” five years ago, and now she needs to work, work, work, as I enjoy it,
she says.
Wazda’s pathway to business ownership was not straightforward. After initially trying to settle into retirement, she found herself bored and looking for a new venture. “I tried to enjoy my retirement quietly. But I noticed that I was very bored. And then I fell for this business, because fashion has always been my great love,” she recalls.
The life of Vienna’s offspring took unusual flight. She moved to Canada where she worked in various capacities—journalist, media consultant, and even as a news spokesperson for German television programs. Upon returning to Austria, she took courses at the Hotel Sacher in Baden, which eventually inspired her to open a fashion boutique. “I took a cake back course at the Hotel Sacher in Baden as it has already become 3 years since October 2022 a part of the Hotel Kempinski. Southwest Delaware was awesome for me” she said.
EAST Award Recognition
This year, Wazda’s entrepreneurial spirit earned her a notable accolade. She was awarded the 2024 Founder Prize by the Chamber of Commerce and Land Lower Austria. Governor Johanna Mikl-Leitner praised Wazda, describing her as “a role model for everyone. Eva only looks forward, we need this commitment.”

Fashion that makes you happy
is the motto at Eva Moden, a boutique flourishing where clothing offerings are not found everywhere. At the ready to provide a full range of accessories to complement the clothing.
Wazda travels frequently to Italy and Germany to personally curate the items she offers. “I often drive to Italy and Germany. I have to be able to select and pick up the goods myself. If I don’t like it, I can’t offer it in business either,” she explains. Her store has attracted a loyal customer base, many of whom travel from Vienna or even Graz to shop at “Eva Moden.”
Staying Active,Staying Alive
Wazda’s secret to maintaining her energy and youthful spirit lies in her relentless drive and engagement. She understands that staying active is key to staying young. Beyond running her boutique, Wazda actively promotes her latest collections and fashion trends on Instagram. I can imagine that some have already told their mother about.
Through her eagerness to learn, to explore within.
Wazda wrote a selection of books on Canada and in the end she decides to expand.
But I don’t think I’ll find a publisher and that the book will sell well,– Eva Wazda, )
her book reflects on her experience as a First Class citizen.
Despite facing down times in the past four months, Wazda remains optimistic. She firmly believes that the business will get better again. Eva’s drive and commitment to excellence have positioned her as an inspirational figure, not just in Austria but potentially globally, as her story resonates with people of all ages. As for her future plans, Wazda continues to write and is currently working on a fourth book titled “Working at 85.”
She demonstrates that age is beyond just a number, the deep hidden meaning makes you famous.
