When many think of starting a fashion business, they think of an office, shop, large space, and so on. The cost of renting a space has caused a lot of intending fashion designers to abandon their dreams. The frustration that comes from the endless expenses of renting a space can weigh anyone down.
The good news is you can start your fashion business from the comfort of your home. The first year of starting your fashion business is your business incubation period. In this period, you might spend more and earn less. You might also struggle with having consistent clients. Starting from home will reduce your business overhead costs.
The points below are what you need to have and do to start your fashion designing business from home.
1. Be skilled and ready
Have the necessary skills. Know exactly what kind of business you want to run. Your first set of clients will announce your business. If you are not confident in sewing, enroll for internships.
You need three major skills: sewing skills, business skills and digital skills.
Your sewing skill will attract more clients to your business overtime. It will distinguish your neat sewing and finishing from other designers.
Your business skill is to run and manage your business finances. You will be able to keep a proper record of your incoming and outgoing finances.
Your digital skills is mainly for advertisment. It will help you to gain the visibility your business needs.
2. Have a well-structured plan and daily schedule
Don’t downplay your business because you are working from home. Have a working business structure and stick to it. Approach your business as though you are not at home.
Know your opening and closing time. Have structured breaks. Know what you want to achieve daily. Don’t spend long hours watching television or sleeping. It is unhealthy for your business. Be productive as much as you can.
3. Have your basic sewing tools ready
It is important for you to have the necessary sewing tools and equipment. Examples are sewing machine, pattern curves, ironing board, set of fabrics, etc. The needs never stop but start with the basics. You can add little here and there overtime. For things you can’t afford to buy, you can outsource them.
You have to consider your space when buying your sewing tools and equipment.
4. Get your fashion business/ brand registered
In this day and age, it is important for you to register your fashion designing business. Registering your business gives it legal backing. It is affordable to register your business in Nigeria. You can do it yourself or ask an expert to do it for you.
5. Constantly advertise your business
You can create business pages across your social media platforms. You can also print out business cards and flyers. Reach out to more people. Put your business out there. There is no business without sales. If you are not making money, you have not started your business. If you don’t advertise, no one will know about your business.
6. Be realistic and pay yourself salary
Build your business from the funds you get. Separate your business account from your personal account. Pay yourself salary to encourage yourself.
7. Have a growth mindset
Don’t be too comfortable where you are. No matter how far you have gone, you can go farther. Expand your business.
Featured Image source: AmazonGot a suggestion? Contact us: editor@connectnigeria.com