We were lucky to catch up with Autumn Cromer recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Autumn thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you walk us through some of the key steps that allowed you move beyond an idea and actually launch?
I’ve always had the idea that I wanted my own custom tailor-made clothing store since I was a child. More over being on the runway showing my collection at New York Fashion Week. By the time time my children were of age, I was 38, I was able to begin to re-think the idea of having such a space. I used my earnings from being a hair stylist to start part of the process. I had to figure out what type of designer I was and who would I market my clothing to. I took business classes to learn more about business and becoming an entrepreneur. Practice and education were the key elements in helping me perfect the design concepts no matter which area of fashion I was in. It took about 3 or 4 years before I had my first Fashion show.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
There’s a calling that comes from within the you must answer to. I wanted more growth in my life but didn’t know where to start. “Do what you love”. Words that are always spoken to by others and I did just that. Problem was I didn’t know which area to focus on more. I’ve learned that I’m not a one dimensional designer. I’ve always liked creating custom pieces whether it be jewelry, accessories or clothing, for people. The happiness is what I’m after or the joy the feel to have something Noone else has. That’s the spark from time to time. It helps create freely and to share with others. What I’m most proud of is my determination to not give up. Life gives us many reasons to quit. Even though I’m not making thousands of dollars right now, I’m certain that one day I will and everyone will know my brand.
How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?
Funding my business has been a journey
However the blessing was that I’m a natural hairdresser and I took $25 to purchase a few materials. Since I adore using old clothing to create, it became a very useful resource that doesn’t cost a thing. I already had sewing machines and through the kindness of others by simply asking, I received loads of used sewing equipment and used clothing.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
My main goal is to headline a solo show at New York Fashion Week. Other than that, my aim to be the creative space for others to come learn and create.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/autumn_gineen
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/autumn_gineen
Image Credits
Photo credit
Jodie L Summers
Autumn Gineen