The drive: What challenges have you overcome?
Having imposter syndrome is real, and asking for help is hard when you don’t feel you have earned it. Being pushed back by people who assume you are not genuine is difficult too. The world of social media has been an eye opener, trying to defend who I am, before realising… actually I’m learning along the way too and that’s OK. Other challenges include: growing and trying to be a better, more inclusive designer; provoking people to ask the hard questions, without slandering other brands; and that everything is a balance and I’m learning that I can do more than I think.
For better or worse: What are the pros and cons of running your own business?
I really enjoy making the kids a priority and being able to work to my own schedule. I’m passionate about what I’m trying to achieve and that inspires me to keep improving our practices. Creativity is one of the best parts, and I can’t wait to take some bolder risks.
Conversely, staying motivated can be hard after sleepless nights and it’s all on you to turn up. With a business like this, there comes a lot of risk and the possibility of failure is always at the back of my mind. Learning to control my overthinking and take the knock backs on the chin will help me to grow as a business owner. For now, it’s just me, and I’m lucky to work at my own pace.
Hopes and dreams: What next?
In the short term, we continue to add new designs, variations, and work on spreading what Quinn stands for and represents. Quinn continues to explore the ever-changing technology of fabric and sustainable solutions. There are some amazing things happening in this scene and we can’t wait to introduce these to the New Zealand market.
We have received some great feedback around our rash shirt range, and there are some exciting new swimwear options in the pipeline for summer. And as you might have seen, our size range is increasing to a women’s 30. We believe every woman should have the option to wear whatever they like, no matter their size, nor what a reality TV personality thinks!
Longer term, I hope Quinn continues to grow, whilst maintaining our Slow Fashion values and shedding light on Fast Fashion’s impact on people and the environment. I would love to continue adding to our range, and supporting many New Zealand businesses along the way.
Head over to the Quinn website to browse their range of women’s clothing. You can also connect with them on Facebook and Instagram.
