Small Business Interview: T*Racy Design

As once said by the famous Virgil, “They succeed, because they think they can.” Much like this quote is the passion of Tracy Belben, an upcoming designer who is making her mark in the small business arena. Read below to learn Tracy's tips for starting a small business.

• Q: What was your inspiration for opening your business?

A: The freedom of being able to express myself and share my work with others. I started the business between architecture jobs, during the recession of 2009–2010. I've always enjoyed fashion and shopping, and didn't have the budget to buy new clothing and accessories as I had been able to before the days of unemployment. In an attempt to keep up the lifestyle, I started creating my own accessories to jazz up existing outfits, eventually realizing the attention from friends within the fashion industry. “Your work… it’s so bold, edgy, and… what’s the word? …RACY!”- One friend said. From that point onward, “T*Racy” was born.

• Q: What was your ultimate goal when you decided to open your business, and has the goal changed?

A: The ultimate goal, at the beginning, was to express myself and generate some income to survive the recession between jobs. Eventually, the goal shifted towards designing a line, one that allows the customer to express themselves and generate a long-lasting brand. With this I also hoped to be recognized by a savvy, fashion-conscience demographic.

• Q: Does your business have an ecommerce site?

A: Yes, currently I’m using Etsy.com and use the Square iPhone app (square.com). The app allows me to process orders when I’m selling at trunk shows or for special orders through phone or email. Currently, I am collaborating with award-winning fashion designer Daniel Hernandez for a special collection that will be available exclusively through DH Studios, Inc.

• Q: What advertising methods do you use?

A: Personally, I love Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest (I just started using it) as a way to connect with followers, and advertise events where I will be selling product or to announce new products that have been added to my website. Best part about using social media for advertising… it’s free! When I receive orders from individual customers, online or at a show, I include a free bumper sticker or magnet of a large T*Racy lips logo. This reminds people of my brand, wherever they are. I also carry business cards everywhere I go.

• Q: What advertising methods do you find most effective?

A: This may come as a surprise, but business cards are the most effective. Face time with customers, potential collaborators, and press contacts are crucial. A well-designed, high-quality business card, in combination with a handshake, smile, and eye contact, grows a business and leads to sales.

• Q: How important is it to recognize loyal customers?

A: Extremely important! Loyal customers are the people advocating your brand, by wearing the product and talking about it. Treat them well, appreciate them, and they will naturally sell for you because they love the product.

• Q: What percentages of your customers come from your local community?

A: Currently, about 65%–75%, since I participate in local fashion and trunk shows. The remaining customers are from all over the world.

• Q: What sort of work do you do for the business outside business hours?

A: I am constantly networking within the fashion community in and around New England. Websites like Meetup.com are great resources to meet people within your industry. I also attend other designers’ events to network, learn, and become inspired. Even if I’m on vacation, I hand out business cards. It’s a 24-hour business.

• Q: Do you do this work from home?

A: Yes and no. The design and production work is prepared at my home studio, but the e-commerce and social media aspect of my business is conducted while I’m on the go, by iPhone or laptop. I can work anywhere.

• Q: Is running your business harder than you thought it would be?

A: Absolutely. I knew it would be hard, but didn't realize how much there is to learn, especially when it's not your background. You learn by doing, and "doing" is a challenge. It's intimidating starting a business! Making the leap and trusting yourself is the hardest part. Finding a support system, mentors, and partners is crucial to grow a brand.

• Q: How long will you stay in this business for?

A: As long as I can. The beauty of being trained as a designer is the ability to come up with new ideas. If something isn't working, you think of another creative option and test it. Over and over again...

• Q: What sort of training did you have before going into business?

A: I went through Architecture school. It taught me how to think by brainstorming concepts, presenting my work, and transforming an idea into reality.

• Q: What advice would you give someone who wants to set up their own business?

A: If you have a great idea and strongly believe in it, don’t let anything (including yourself) hold you back! Life is too short for “coulda/woulda/shoulda” excuses.

Tracy Belben

T*Racy Design

http://t-racy.com

Social Media:

Twitter: @T_Racy_Design

Facebook: http://facebook.com/t.racy.design.shop

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/tracydesign/

Check out another small business owners story. Small Business Interview: the Creative Strategy Agency