Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in clothing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ashly Ryan, founder of Splice Clothing, located in Las Vegas, NV, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Splice Clothing is a line of reversible travel clothing designed to help women pack light and adventure easy so they can focus on the experience instead of the baggage. I wanted to design clothing that helped me and other traveling females feel confident and comfortable in what they were wearing without having to overpack. With our functional, travel-friendly styles, it's easy to mix and match and create tons of outfit options, even just packing in a carry-on!
Tell us about yourself
In 2017, I quit my job in renewable energy to embark on a ten-month-long Round World trip with my now-husband to over 20 countries on five continents. I packed a 50-pound backpack stuffed with clothes, and I quickly realized traveling with so much stuff did not make for an easy adventure. After returning home, I decided to pursue my lifelong dream of wanting to start a clothing line. I'm a self-taught designer and seamstress who had made all my own prom and homecoming dresses and a few bridesmaid's dresses too, but I had never delved into the world of casual clothing. But I wanted to create something that would help me and other travelers be able to travel with just a carry-on but not have to wear the same outfit over and over again. So I decided to start designing reversible travel clothing - and Splice Clothing was born! I love that I'm able to help women maximize their adventures and make packing and dressing for them easier than ever.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Having happy customers all over the world - in more than ten countries!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Taking criticism is the front-facing person of your business. Sometimes if our products aren't the right fit for someone and they offer their feedback, you take it more personally because your business is like your baby. But you have to realize everything is a learning experience and an opportunity to improve your business practices.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Start marketing as soon as possible - even if you think it's too early. Start your social media handles and email lists, and start getting people excited about your launch!
- Define your target market and refine your business to fit their wants and needs.
- Just go for it! It's scary and stressful and hard work, but it's so worth it to pursue your passion and accomplish your goals!
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Thank you for this opportunity! I'd love to share a discount code with your readers - Use code CARRY-ON for 15% off all Reversible Travel Clothing on spliceclothing.com.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://spliceclothing.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spliceclothing
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spliceclothing/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/spliceeverywear
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.
