Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in fashion and accessories but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ashleigh Collins and Mahsa Sajadi, co-founders of Nonchalant Supply, located in Toronto, Canada.

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

Nonchalant Supply is a functional accessory line for the girl-on-the-go. We offer a line of unique jewelry-inspired crossbody iPhone cases and accessories that free your hands and accessorize every outfit.

Tell us about yourself

Well, we are best friends, business partners, and roommates, which has made the journey of building Nonchalant Supply so unique and interesting. The concept was born from the frustration of never having our phones readily available when we needed them most. Whether it was while traveling, running errands around town, or partying with friends, we were always digging deep in our jacket pockets or handbags looking for our phones (and stressing when we couldn’t find them!). Mahsa had just returned from a trip to Europe, where the trend of crossbody iPhone cases was really taking off, and we thought to ourselves - why can’t they be cute too?! And hence the concept of a jewelry-inspired crossbody iPhone case was born. Our brand is all about having fun and living your best life.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Launching and growing a business during a pandemic. An interesting but super rewarding experience!

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

Persevering when things get tough, and challenges arise. We feel so lucky to have each other to lean on and motivate each other through the good times and the bad. It takes tenacity and determination to keep going, but we always remind ourselves of our dreams for the brand, and that is what keeps us pushing forward.

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

  1. Just do it! Getting started is half the battle. We put so many roadblocks in front of ourselves, but it just takes a leap of faith to get the ball rolling and things moving.
  2. Leverage your network, and ask for help in the early stages. People love helping people, and through this, you will be able to find your tribe and have people invest in the success of getting your business off the ground.
  3. Plan! Take the time to set out what your next 6-12 months will look like. Build out your goals and what you want to achieve. This will keep you on track and help you focus on what is next when things get tough and challenging.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Inspire the people around you to do what they love, and help them wherever you can.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.nonchalantsupply.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nonchalantsupply/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nonchalantsupply/

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.