The Drive: What challenges have you overcome?
I think the biggest challenge to overcome was myself and my own self doubt. I didn’t even realize I was capable of what I have achieved and I’m not talking about business success, I’m talking about learning new skills, designing new garments accessories or items, working with new fabrics. I’m not trained in my industry so have had to teach myself everything, but when I sit back and admire a design that I have made, I have to push down everything negative and acknowledge to myself that I can do so much more than I thought.
For better or worse: What are the pros and cons of running your own business?
The pros are you are doing something that you love (otherwise why bother). You are doing something that you believe in and you are doing it for yourself and your family. You have a say in the physical hours that you work and how that works for your family.
The cons – it never ends! You are always caught up in your business wherever you go and whatever you do, even if only mentally.
Hopes and dreams: What next?
I had hoped this year to enter the WOW competition but ran out of time to complete my design so I will be working on it for next year’s show. On a more current basis giving more to the community is becoming very important to me, so finding ways to do that is my new passion.
To see the full range of Amabel designs, visit the Amabel Gowns website.
