Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in clothing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Taylor-Ann Smith, Owner of Ride Force, located in Jackson, WY, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Ride Force is a mountain bike apparel brand focused on providing USA-made, inclusively sized, gender-neutral products while widening the accessibility of the sport for those of any ability.
Tell us about yourself
I've always struggled athletically. I'm better known as an artist than the "sporty" type. Mountain biking was the first activity that made me feel empowered. I finally found a sport that I was good at, and the lessons of patience, looking ahead, and powering through obstacles would transpire into every aspect of my life. But when I went to buy mountain bike apparel, most options were hyper-feminine and too fitted - I didn't look the way I felt when biking. Ride Force was born out of wanting EVERY BODY to feel badass on a bike while focusing on the trail and not the fit of your gear. I took a major risk launching my business during the pandemic but knew my jerseys would prove their worth and my passion for building this community would spread.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Just in the first year, Ride Force has sold over 300 units with zero returns. Beyond sales, the greatest reward of this business has been seeing others feel inspired and empowered by mountain biking. Ride Force aims to create an inclusive community of bikers. Because if I can do this, you can do this, and we should all be riding together.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Doing all the things all the time - solo. Being a solo and new entrepreneur is such a big hill to climb. Letting go of my ego and asking for help has been a personal struggle but a necessity for enabling my business to grow. I've learned that I can't be the "jack of all trades" and need to let the masters do their work.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- There's never the "right" time. The jump is scary, but the sooner you do it, the more time you have for success and learning.
- Trust yourself. People will invest in your business if you believe in it with everything you've got.
- Treat your business like your best friend. I'd never call my friend a failure, stop believing in them, or ever tell them they aren't good enough. Do the same for your business!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://ride-force.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RideForceApparel
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ride.force/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-ann-smith-91163b79/
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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