We can’t stress enough how important a good support network is when you’re starting, launching and scaling a business, but sometimes you have to figure these things out on your own. There’s a long list of things you’ll learn when you’re starting a business, but it’s all part of the process, and it’s what makes working for yourself so much fun.
If you missed it, last week’s blog post delved into building a support network and a creative team, and we shared why it’s so important to work with the right like-minded mentor when it comes to sourcing and product development. Working with a consultant when you’re starting up without experience is smart business, and upskilling to fill the gaps is an essential ingredient in every successful business recipe.
As Fashion Equipped’s Product Development and Sourcing consultant, it’s a topic that Manuela Castelluzzo understands inside out, and she knows first-hand just how vital a product development and sourcing strategy is.
After working with Manuela, Nicole Jago has experienced first-hand that the right fashion mentor can help guide you in the direction of success. Nicole is now building the areas of her business that were once very foreign to her, by investing in her own development and upskilling with a mentor.
“I started working one on one with Manuela because I needed the expertise of design and development, as they are skills that I don’t have myself. My product has a technical element to it that needs to perform as per its purpose, so getting the design right is critical. I am also new to fashion, so I needed the experience and industry knowledge that Fashion Equipped has to offer, so that I can source suppliers and move forward with my product development. I’ve had such a fun experience so far in my consultations with Manuela, and it’s been so exciting to see my ideas formulate into designs. It’s been great to be able to touch fabrics, work through samples together and make design decisions in real time.”
Learn more about product development and sourcing here or book a complimentary 30-minute discovery call with one of Fashion Equipped’s mentors and consultants today, and make the fashion business, your business!
About The Author: Elizabeth Formosa
Elizabeth Formosa is the Founder of Fashion Equipped.
Over the past 20 years, Elizabeth has worked with some of Australia's largest retailers and privately owned wholesalers, and she's gained valuable industry experience working in senior roles in retail buying, product development, sourcing, sales, brand building, marketing, strategic planning and team management.
As a consultant and mentor, Elizabeth now shares her knowledge and experience with Australia's next generation of fashion businesses and designers.
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