Every woman is built differently. That is why no one shirt or pair of pants will fit the same for each person. Buying off the rack may be convenient, but that comes with a price. Off the rack does not give most women the fitted comfort they all deserve.
Partnering up in business, April and Marin have started their own custom clothing business which specializes in clothing that will continue to be timeless within your wardrobe, and long lasting. At AprilMarin women of all sizes can get clothing made for their bodies at a price much more reasonable than found within other custom clothing businesses.
I got an opportunity to chat with the women within the AprilMarin brand as well as find out a little more about their business and success.
What kind of clothing do you make at AprilMarin?
We make women’s contemporary custom clothing, chic, classic and timeless staples in a women’s wardrobe. We currently offer pencil dresses, suits and jackets.
How do you determine the costs for an item?
Item costs are based on labor time and material. Our aim is to make custom clothing at an affordable price.
Where do you see your business in 5 years?
We just celebrated our 1 year anniversary and this year has far exceeded our expectations. We have had tons of inquiries for our custom jeans and sweaters and we are definitely thinking about it.
What went into the planning to make your business what it is today?
Drive and passion. We are two girls with a mission- we always knew we wanted to do something that made people feel good about themselves! The AprilMarin mission is to give women the chance to look and feel their best with a custom wardrobe. When you look good, you feel good and custom made clothing always makes you feel good.
How did the two of you meet?
We met during our undergraduate studies at Pace University in Pleasantville, NY.
We had many marketing classes together and knew immediately that our love of classic fashion, innovative design and chic style would some day be shared with the world!
What kind of knowledge were you able to bring to the business?
Our eye for fashion, knack for a good bargain and marketing background all play a part in what we bring to the business as well as our ability to multi task, which we think is important in any business.
What makes your business different from the other businesses available?
We heard women from all over of different ages and backgrounds voice that they wanted their clothing to fit, even if they were not a size 2 or 4 and we found the perfect fit!
Classic, simple, contemporary designs with a twist. Customers are able to buy clothing that fits their body type as well as customize the lining of our jackets, all at an affordable price… which is truly unique!
How much of a cash investment did it take to get up and running?
We have put a small amount of cash into the business to start, but we have not sought any outside investments. Since our business is custom and made piece by piece we do not carry inventory, which keeps our cost down.
Is there anything that you would do differently if you could go back and start again?
No, we believe in destiny and good timing and feel that the launch of AprilMarin was done at a great time in the market as well as in our personal lives. We look towards the future for change and innovation, and never look back.
What advice would you offer to someone interested in starting their own business?
Go for it! If you are passionate about something you can make it happen. Also, get your idea out there… it is not bragging… it’s networking and you would be surprised how people will support you.
cassy on July 2nd, 2008 at 10:27 pm
The collections are so fashionable and very stylish…Im thinking if i can also wear those clothes especially “holly jacket”, its elegant.