Today we have the pleasure of getting to know Shan from missy melly a little bit better, so Shan¦.
Tell us about your business:
missy melly has been running now for 2 years and came from a desire to dress my twin girls in something different. I am the owner and the designer but now employ another work from home mum to help with the sewing. Missy melly is all about fun, bright colours, practical styles, easy care, clothes your girls will feel comfortable in while still looking super stylish. We cater for ages from 6months up to 12 years.
What inspired you to start your business?
As mentioned above I wanted to make my twin girls something a little different to wear. They have inspired me through their lust for life and creativity. Just being around them makes life so much more fun and I wanted their clothing to reflect that.
Is there an interesting anecdote behind your business name?
Again because my girls were the reason behind the name its been named after them miss madison and miss elly. I originally mas going to be miss melly but thought when spoken it sounded like miss smelly and that certainly wouldnt do! So missy melly it became.
What is the most satisfying part of what you do?
Dressing girls in clothing I love and that is age appropriate. I love meeting new customers, the social interaction on my facebook page, seeing pictures of little ladies from everywhere wearing my creations, all while working around my daughters very hectic schedules.
Have you tried something in business that didnt work as planned, or on the flip side “ worked out better than expected?
I tried doing it all initially and it was too hard to stay true to my style and myself. Employing someone to help was the best thing I ever did as now I have time to be a mum as well as expand my business.
What would be your best tip for someone thinking about selling their handcrafted goods?
Keep your head down and dont worry about whats going on around you. Stay true to yourself and your passion will shine through in your work.
What is your favourite item you make?
I enjoy making most of my items but more so I love using fabrics. Im happiest when Im thigh deep in fabric piles sorting out whats going to happen next at missy melly. I am very excited about our new summer shorts and playsuits this year though and cant wait to make up some more.
Any personal or business highlights in the last year:
Personally, I have taken control of my health and fitness and have gone from couch potato to running 10km and have just entered the city to surf 14km run in November. Businesswise my highlight would definitely be the continuing connections I make with other like-minded women. I simply love being around gorgeous and positive people and missy melly is constantly providing these connections.
3 things about you that people might not know:
- I love 80s music and will ALWAYS belt out a few tunes at karaoke
- I am going to my 20 year school reunion this year and cant wait
- I only starting to sew about 4 months prior to starting missy melly and I taught myself and am continuing to teach myself
Thank you Shan, it has been a pleasure meeting you, the maker!
