Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in clothing and accessories but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Mandisa Morgan, designer, and owner of gdwn, located in Toronto, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
gdwn (pronounced Godwin) is a reversible bucket hat brand that I created in 2021 with versatility, fun, and sneakerheads in mind (similar to when people wear fitted that match their sneakers, but make it a bucket hat, lol). The brand is unisex and was named after my grandfather, who is also a creative soul, like me! gdwn was also created to embody individuality and variety of expression through streetwear providing pieces for those to put their personal style on display.
Tell us about yourself
My name is Mandisa, and I’m a Toronto-based designer who taught myself how to sew before interning for two local designers and then attending two fashion schools. Back in 2016, I launched a clothing line, Sashay, which I ran for a couple of years before closing it to pursue other career opportunities.
Now, running gdwn, I feel like I’ve finally found my ‘thing.’ Although I love what I do, being an entrepreneur is not all rainbows and sunshine. It’s on those days that I remember my why, which is what pushes me to keep going. Also, I can’t forget about my support system, which has really continued to encourage me.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment to date is recently being awarded a Black Designers of Canada Award of Excellence! That reassured me that I was on the right path and to keep up the great work!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Hmm, I think I’d have to say being required to wear so many hats. On any given day, I wear a number of hats in order to run my business, some of which include: content creator, bookkeeper/accountant, designer, and the list goes on. It can definitely be overwhelming, but it keeps things exciting because no two days are exactly alike!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Google is your friend!
- Don’t compare your beginning to someone else’s middle.
- Do it because you love it, not strictly for the money
if you’re heart isn’t in it, it will surely show.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://gdwn.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Gdwn-114278660698826/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gdwn.ca/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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