In today’s podcast episode, I’m interviewing a gifted designer who has combined her passion for fashion with her love of the planet.
Originally from Belleville, Ontario, Heather Case studied fashion design at Fanshawe College in London, Ontario. She went on to intern with Canadian designer Lida Baday and worked with the company Preloved in Toronto before opening her own custom design business in Picton, Ontario.
After a few years of gaining knowledge of fit techniques, pattern development and a growing attachment to natural textiles Heather eventually launched her own sustainable line of women’s apparel, fittingly named Heather Case Handmade Clothing.
Today, Heather prides herself on creating fashions are wearable, sustainable and Canadian-made. I’m also proud to say she’s one of my incredible coaching clients.
In today’s conversation, Heather and I talk about how to curate an eco-friendly closet, as well as how collaboration can be the catalyst for growth and expansion inside your business.
We also discuss Heather’s own story, as well as side hustles, markets and pop-up events, not to mention the benefits of finding your own business coach.
Here are my top 10 takeaways from my conversation with Heather:
1. We only have one planet, and we need to protect it.
2. Sourcing goods and talent locally can help reduce our business’s carbon footprint, while also boosting the local economy.
3. Collaboration opens your mind, gives you new ideas and helps you reach new audiences.
4. Finding a supportive community often starts with you speaking up about what matters most to you.
5. Pop-up events are an effective way to grow your brand and extend your audience reach.
6. Adopting a “slow grow” approach to the way you do business can help you release unreasonable expectations and position you for steady expansion.
7. Solopreneurs can often benefit from the insights of a coach since they bring a fresh set of eyes to your brand or business.
8. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember to take it one baby step at a time.
9. Letting go of being in control can be challenging for small business owners, but it also may be the step you need to take to ensure future growth.
10. Risk can be scary, but it’s also a necessary part of growing your business.
Thanks so much for listening in! I'd love to hear your feedback.