Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in clothing line but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Amy Ashworth, Lead Designer and Managing Partner of AC Ashworth & Company, located in Hardinsburg, KY, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We serve the fashion community in technical design and manufacturing. We prepare patterns and technical packages for designers who want to bring their products to market, and often we do small-batch manufacturing for them too. We serve our local, domestic, and international communities by providing custom apparel and accessories made in our micro-factory in Kentucky, USA. Since our passion is pattern making, we have also launched a line of home sewing patterns and e-books to serve the hobby and small business sewing community with classically styled patterns, in multi-size formats, with instruction in professional sewing techniques. We also digitize and print patterns on paper and oaktag.
Tell us about yourself
I have been in garment construction for over 30 years. I began sewing for profit in 2010 at the suggestion of a friend. I began patternmaking soon after. I have a passion for sewing, and when I make patterns for designers, they see their dream come to life. It's so exciting, and I love turning cloth into beautiful things!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I think one of my biggest accomplishments, aside from learning the intricacies of my trade, was when I hired my first employee. That was such an exciting step.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
I would say one of the hardest things is keeping up with marketing and changing strategies for how to reach an audience.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Be the best in your field. Read negative reviews of your competition to avoid pitfalls in your own business.
- Don't give up. The road to success will have ups and downs!
- Network as much as possible!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.acashworthco.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/acashworth
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acashworthco/
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/acashworthco
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-ashworth-5b966a19/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.