Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Nimi Nanji-Simard, Founder of NimiNimi Designs, located in Montreal, QC, Canada.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

I am a designer of luxury silk scarves and silk cushions. My customers are scarf lovers and luxury accessory admirers.

Tell us about yourself

I have been wearing silk scarves since my early 20s. The brand did not matter, but that they are made of pure silk was important to me. It grew into a passion in my late 50s, and in my 60s, I took a chance and started designing my own line. Within two months, I had a collection designed and had it tested by several factories in Como, Italy. The same Summer (2016), I got my first shipment from Italy!

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My accomplishments are:

  1. Repeat customers.
  2. Celebrity clients.
  3. Custom designs for prominent companies and organizations.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

To be a relentless salesperson every day of the week.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Make sure you are extremely passionate about the product.
  2. Know your product inside out.
  3. Don’t invest in marketing, social media, or fancy website till you sell enough.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Know that a new business will not soon start paying your bills - have reserves and backup plans. Mine is a passionate hobby, but if I depended on the revenue for living, I would pick a mass product, not a luxury one.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website:
https://pmo.e5d.myftpupload.com/
https://www.niminimi.ca

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Niminimi-Scarves-568647763336473/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/niminimiscarves/
Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/niminimiscarves

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.

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