Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in clothing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Amanda Carestio, Founder of Pop of Neutral, located in Golden, CO, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Pop of Neutral offers unique yet wearable handmade garments made by me in Golden, Colorado featuring natural fabrics, imported cotton ikat, scraps, and secondhand textiles. Rich neutral tones, boxy silhouettes, and timeless yet artful designs are the basis of the Pop of Neutral vision and philosophy.
Tell us about yourself
I'm a passionate sewist and have been sewing since my teens. After working as a production sewist for a small fashion brand in Denver a few years ago, I set my sights on starting my own small brand. I love what I do - the balance of riffing on the same design many times to explore fabric combinations and layouts and developing new designs for my customers (who are the best).
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Honestly, I'm still riding the high of getting started. That's a big accomplishment, right?
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The ebbs and flows! I'm still learning what constitutes a "normal" business cycle for my business, and the quiet times are hard but also very natural. Particularly for a linen clothing business in Colorado! I'm (SLOWLY!!!) learning to use the quiet moments - to recharge and restore, develop new designs, and set clear goals for myself.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Just start! You don't have to be 100% ready - and you'll likely never feel that way anyway.
- Be flexible. What you want to create as your main business focus might not be what your customers find most appealing. Stick to your vision but be willing to adjust to demand. Also, know that the process involves so much learning, and you have to be open to that too. You're going to make mistakes.
- It's a marathon - I'm still learning this! Remember that you are in control of the pace. Best to find one that is sustainable over the long term.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.popofneutral.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085218648017
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/popofneutralrm/
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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