As a fashion show coordinator for the past 20 years, I saw a need for a wardrobe solution that would enhance a sleeveless garment, offering stylish coverage of the upper arm area.
At many of my fashion shows, women have expressed to me their biggest wardrobe issue "why is everything sleeveless?" As women age, the arms can be a trouble spot, they usually refer to them as "flabby arms". The only alternative was to cover up with a shrug or wrap, which can make a dress look dated & matronly.
That's how the idea of a detachable sleeve was born. They snap on to your bra strap adding dimension & style to any sleeveless garment. The sleeves are a flutter design, the most flattering style for any size woman. After months of research, I found a manufacturer here in the US. I am so excited to offer a fashion fix-it solution that extends your existing wardobe.
My customers now tell me that they can finally buy a sleeveless dress without having to cover up with a shrug or jacket, instead they can pair it up with sleeves 2 go.
How did you earn your first sales? Which channels are now generating the most traffic and sales for you?
My background in Fashion Show productions was the perfect platform to market my product. I already had the connections & the relationships with Women's Clubs, Charities & fund raising events where luncheon fashion shows took place.
I would model my detachable sleeves in the show & demonstrate how they work. After the show, the women would come backstage to purchase a pair. The response was overwhelming and the remarks were so positive, they wanted to know why I had not been on Shark Tank. What a compliment !
Participating in these shows also gave me the opportunity to advertise my website. When re-orders came in, it was usually through my website. Shopify has been a great platform for my product and it is user friendly.
Tell us about the back-end of your business. What tools and apps do you use to run your store? How do you handle shipping and fulfillment?
Right now I run the business myself. I handle shipping & recieving. I am very active with social media & do a lot of advertising on line.
During the season when I'm busy participating in fashion shows, I'm able to sell on the go using intuit go payment card reader from my smart phone. That is awesome technology !
I also participate in some of the larger trade shows as a vendor which is a great way to get exposure for your company & website.
What are your top recommendations for new ecommerce entrepreneurs?
For many years as a fashion show coordinator, I was selling my services. Now I am selling a product, so this has really been a big learning experience for me. But no matter what you're selling, do it with integrity and really be passionate, believe in your product. Work hard and work smart ! With Shopify the possibilities are endless for any business!