We recently connected with Jacqueline Calderon and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Jacqueline thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Looking back, do you think you started your business at the right time? Do you wish you had started sooner or later

Sometimes I think about how things would have turned out if I had started things right after high school instead of after graduating college. I think that I would have been less doubtful of failing and willing to take more risks. However from a financial standpoint I would not have had the capital to begin anything with. The same can be said if I waited to be older and more financially stable, I would have probably not want to begin a business anymore.
Ultimately, I don’t regret when I started. There were struggles, of course, but each one taught me valuable lessons. However I feel that I was in the sweet spot of being both cautious but willing to take the plunge. Every challenge helped me grow both personally and professionally. Would I have succeeded sooner if I’d started later or earlier? Perhaps. But I think the timing was exactly right for me, and that’s what made the journey uniquely mine.

Jacqueline, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I have been running Velvet Sunshine for almost five years now. What started as a scrunchie business has turned more into an embroidery focused business. I have customized everything from sweaters, graduation sashes, blankets and much more. I have provided both wholesale products as well as custom products for individuals. Personally I enjoy creating one-of-one pieces with clients who are usually in the market for a unique piece for a loved one.

I also sell my products in person at flea markets all over SoCal. Usually in the Orange County/ LA area and sometimes San Diego! My main items for these events are embroidered sweaters and newly added graphic tees.

We’d really appreciate if you could talk to us about how you figured out the manufacturing process.

I’ve learned everything on my own. I truly do not know how learning to operate heavy machinery became second nature to me. I started with a single needle embroidery machine and eventually upgraded to a 10 needle machine that made production much more efficient. Many people think that my items are outsourced but everything is made by me at my home based workshop.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

The best source of new clients has been word of mouth from previous clients. Being referred to friends and families opens new opportunities to work and connect with them to bring new creations to life. It also helps establish trust as they have someone who has worked with me prior to them.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.velvetsunshineco.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/velvetsunshineco?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Image Credits

@hashysonny on Instagram
@fluffcherrysonny on Instagram
@sonnybabymama on Instagram