Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in clothing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Anastasia Vasilieva, Founder of The Green Kid, located in New York, NY, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
The Green Kid is a sustainable kid's clothing company catering to parents who want to make a positive impact on the world. We offer a carefully curated selection of eco-friendly and ethically-made clothing using only the highest quality sustainable materials. By choosing The Green Kid, parents can shop better for their kids while making a change that benefits the planet.
Tell us about yourself
I used to work as a management consultant for a Big four firm, and while I found the high-pressure, hardworking environment to be challenging, I couldn't help but feel like something was missing. Then came the "Great Resignation" in August 2021, and I finally decided to take the leap and leave my job. I had no idea what I was going to do, but I was determined I would not return to corporate America. I knew two things: 1. the things I cared about and 2. the things that frustrated me. As a mother, I had always loved shopping for my kids and finding clothes that were not only high-quality but also made from natural fibers that were good for them and the planet. However, time and time again, I was disappointed to discover that many brands were guilty of greenwashing, and it was tough to find truly ethical options. Using the problem-solving skills I honed as a management consultant, I set out to research the issue and develop a solution for parents who wanted to access truly ethically made clothing without having to spend weeks researching the origins. I created The Green Kid to meet that need: a shop that thoroughly vets all brands its sells, checking certifications, fabric compositions, founder stories, you name it, to bring you cute clothing from brands that are truly making a difference in the world.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I'm absolutely thrilled about the launch of our own line of GOTS-certified organic cotton clothing Treehouse! We're gearing up for a May launch, and I couldn't be more excited to bring something totally new and fresh to the market. Our capsule collection consists of 14 pieces that are made from only the highest quality GOTS-certified cotton and OEKO-tex-certified linen. What sets us apart is that each piece is designed to be mixed and matched endlessly, making it easier for parents to dress their little ones while keeping things gender-neutral and timeless. This venture is truly close to my heart as it represents our unwavering commitment to sustainability, quality, and convenience for parents. Of course, it's been a wild ride so far, with plenty of hard work and risks taken along the way, but I couldn't be prouder of what we've achieved.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
As a business owner, I've discovered that the most challenging aspects of the role are two sides of the same coin. On the one hand, being in charge of your own venture means that the possibilities are endless, and your vision is your creation. But on the other hand, every risk you take is entirely your own, and every loss is deeply felt. On a day-to-day basis, running a business presents unique challenges. Unlike working for a large corporation, there's no expansive support system in place, no HR department, no benefits, no training programs, and no fancy perks. It's a raw and basic experience but also one that's full of potential for growth and fulfillment.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
This sounds counterintuitive and probably unlike anything they tell you on Instagram but don't wait for a big earth-shattering idea. Roll up your sleeves and get started doing something. Learn everything about it and keep learning. Don't think you're the best, don't believe you know it all; just keep plugging away at ways to get better. I find, at least for me, ideas come in the midst of moving forward, not while I'm sitting and pondering the world.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.mygreenkid.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CustomerServiceGreenKid
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.greenkid/
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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