Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in clothing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Marla Garchik, Founder, and CEO of Peace Love Solve, located in Highland Beach, FL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Our brand is an apparel company and a movement. The custom pieces spread messages of awareness, acceptance, kindness, and inclusion for children and adults on the autism spectrum. We're a profit-for-purpose company that also supports and partners with many other initiatives. Mental Health, Ending Hate, Alzheimer's, Cancer Research, Feeding the Hungry, and more. We are making positive changes for many issues and causes close to our hearts. Our customers are anyone who believes that peace and love will help create a kinder, more inclusive world.
Tell us about yourself
Because of my personal journey, I created an apparel and lifestyle brand to spread autism awareness, acceptance, kindness, and inclusion for children and adults on the autism spectrum. Our son was diagnosed at the age of 2 1/2. At that time, we enrolled him in an intensive early intervention program that changed his life. Our son's transformation is what gives me the strength, commitment, and motivation to advocate for others and to give back. Made with love, a portion of each sale is generously donated to Autism Speaks or to a charity of choice. Wear Peace Love Solve. Wear Change.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I'm proud that I wasn't afraid to dream big but start small. I started a brand for social - good with the purpose of creating positive change. As a business owner, I love seeing our clothing on others. By wearing our clothing, people are simply starting a conversation about kindness, acceptance, and inclusion. The biggest accomplishment has a happy customer who returns to purchase something else from us.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
One of the most difficult challenges to owning a small business is recognizing that what you tell yourself every day will either lift you up and guide your business or slow you down if you don't take the time to be mindful. You must believe in your potential. Cultivate your friendships and take action in your community. Understand the importance of being patient. Things will happen in their own time, even when we don't see immediate results.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Believe in yourself and your vision. Know that anything is possible when you put your heart and soul into something you believe in. Secondly, start a brand that is not only an amazing product but defines your passion for giving back and making an impact. Lastly, we are all capable of creating change. Never give up on your dreams.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Acts of kindness and empathy are a choice that requires all of us to take action. By purchasing our clothing, you can make a difference in our world.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://peacelovesolve.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/peacelovesolve
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peacelovesolve/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/peacelovesolve
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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