Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in clothing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Catherine Wilson, fashion designer of Catherine Curtis, located in Toronto, ON, Canada.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Independent Canadian designer. Ready to wear and bespoke collection that reaches a variety of age groups from 16 to 80”s who are looking for special garments. We have a distinct look that is a little sassy with an elegant undertone.

Tell us about yourself

I came to Toronto in 82 at 17 yrs old and made my way into design school at 24; once graduating, I had an opportunity to live in Florence for a year and worked at Fugit studio. Hangout with artists from oca; it was the most beautiful landscape for me to learn the aesthetic of what my style would look like.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I was able to grow into two shops. Believe me, right now, I am just thrilled to be still able to have one shop and service my clients. I haven’t reached my goals yet, but being independent and Canadian, it can be tricky as the competition globally is strong. But we keep trying our best.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

Financing, keeping production costs in check, and finding fabrics it’s all balancing acts.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

Stay focused and work hard, usually seven days. Unless you have lots of money, you better learn how to do most jobs… be direct and hold people accountable. Everything falls on you; get used to it, have very thick skin, self-promotion, and truly believe you can do it.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I love what I do. I have amazing clients that keep coming back for years. Our main goal is to help clients look great and make their experience with us as wonderful as we can. Being creative is my saving grace. Design is seriously not serious, but staying in business is so don’t blow up your account overextending, stay humble and modest.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://catherinecurtisdesigns.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/officialcatherinecurtis/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialcatherinecurtis/

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.

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