Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Debbie Barbarita. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Debbie, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Naming anything – including a business – is so hard. Right? What’s the story behind how you came up with the name of your brand?

Well, this was an easy one for me. When our grandson was born, I referred to myself as grammy, but my daughter in law, of course, would use my first name, Debbie. My grandson tried to mimic her, but could not pronounce Debbie … so it came out Bebe. Bebe became my ‘grandmother’ name! When I was naming my design business, Bebe just seemed perfect and along with my love of the color periwinkle Blue……Bebe Blu Designs was the outcome.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Most of my adult life I have done Volunteer work and served on numerous boards. With the untimely death of my younger sister, who we referred to as the artist in the family, I found the desire to start drawing again, which I had not done in years. This lead to finding quality products to use for my artwork and a business that I never dreamed of. I am most proud of, after much searching, my flour sack towels, totes and pillows are printed with direct-to-garment printing: a water-based ink that bleeds into the fabric and leaves the printed area feeling softer.

It is very important to me also that my flour sack towels are 100% cotton, hemmed on all sides and a corner loop.
I have worked closely with clients to do custom designs and artwork to be placed on flour sack towels, note cards and totes for their needs. This opened up another opportunity for my business.

While rediscovering my love of art happened a little later in life, I feel you are never too old to do something you love, and if you are passionate about what you do…somehow opportunities and a career might find you, instead of you finding it

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

For me, my strategy for growing my client list has always been having a quality product, honesty and the willingness to work out a strategy that works best for them. Whether it be a small or no minimum order requirement or trying to deliver in person; I try to put myself in their shoes and work within their needs. Being a small business owner has helped me see how important the little things can be. Also, social media has been a big help, along with word of mouth. I try to discover small boutiques and business where I feel my product may fit and reach out to them or send a sample.
Pop-up stores have also provided a way to discover new customers and display new products.
I feel if you are confident in your products, this comes across to new and existing clients, so if I had to pick one thing that helps me grow clientele it is letting them know I will work hard to make whatever works best for their business a priority for me.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

I would have to say that my pivoting point was in life that was the stepping stone to my career and business. I dabbled in art here and there, but never developed it any further. When our grandson was born, I offered to watch him during the days since both his parents worked. When he was young he needed my constant attention and I loved every minute we spent together. As he grew older it became apparent to me that I needed to find something to channel my creativity, but still be home for his care.
Around this same time in life, my younger sister died unexpectedly. It definitely was a turning point for me. Realizing, first hand, how fast life goes by, I was determined to make sure I did something I loved.
I started to draw again and was asked by a friend if I could put that drawing on a note card…..the rest is history. One thing lead to another and I started by own business in 2017. Never being a business owner, this was a scary but exciting time. My family supported me completely, which certainly helped. They are my biggest fans!
Looking back, sometimes I am amazed as to how a few stepping stones in life lead me down this path.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.bebebludesigns.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/bebebludesigns
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/bebebludesigns
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-barbarita-466379b9