Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in a ladies' clothing line but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Chloe Beaudoin, co-founder of Apricotton, located in Toronto, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Apricotton designs bras specifically for tween and teen girls. Our bras are designed to grow as girls grow with moisture-wicking and stretchy fabric, hideable straps, and removable padding so that it lasts through multiple growth stages. We also make bra shopping a celebration by hand wrapping all of our bras like a present!
Tell us about yourself
Growing up, I really struggled through puberty. The concept of bra shopping was exciting in theory but much more terrifying in practice when I was surrounded by older women frantically trying to find me the "perfect" first bra. Ever since this experience, I've thought about why bra shopping is so intimidating for teens (and even adults!).
After graduating in the middle of the pandemic, I met with my Co-founder, Jessica, who spoke about her then 11-year-old sister's bra shopping struggles. We realized we could make a difference if we started Apricotton.
Our mission is to ensure no girl goes through puberty alone. We act as older sisters, educating girls about everything related to growing up and making them feel excited about buying their first bra.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner was getting our first review on our website. I remember reading the review for the first time and calling Jessica right away to tell her. A mom wrote that her daughter did not feel comfortable going to school wearing a bra, but when she tried ours on, she immediately forgot she was wearing one. Since then, we've got hundreds more reviews and messages from moms thanking us for making their daughters feel excited about wearing a bra. It feels accomplishing to learn that Apricotton is genuinely helping girls feel more confident in their bodies.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The most challenging part of being a business owner is staying organized. There are so many tasks, large and small, to do every single day. Some of them are necessary to run your business day-to-day, and some are necessary for growth. Still, it can be difficult to manage, especially if you have a small team. Scheduled meetings, organized folders, and a planner can help, but it can still feel overwhelming from time to time.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- You don't need to be an expert in any specific field to start a business. Reach out to experts to learn from them or even get them on board with your business.
- Entrepreneurship can be lonely. It's important to have a strong support system, whether that be from family, friends, or other business owners.
- Remember to take time for yourself. Starting your own business is hard work and time-consuming. Still, it's necessary to prioritize and take breaks, so you don't burn out.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
When you're first getting started, really think through what motivates you about your business - this will be your key driver when you're facing challenges.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://apricotton.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/apricottongirls
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apricottongirls/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.