We recently connected with Monica Agana and have shared our conversation below.

Monica, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. To kick things off, we’d love to hear about things you or your brand do that diverge from the industry standard

Embracing Sustainability: Our Commitment to Reducing Waste

In today’s world, the impact of e-commerce on the environment cannot be ignored. As the founder of Savage Babe Collection, I have witnessed firsthand how the growth of online businesses has contributed to environmental degradation. With the population steadily increasing, it is crucial for businesses to take responsibility and be more intentional about their impact on the planet. For me, reducing our carbon footprint is not just a business strategy—it’s a personal mission rooted in my love for the Earth.

Growing up in the Pacific Northwest and now residing in the beautiful desert of Boise, Idaho, I have always been connected to nature. My passion for outdoor adventures and appreciation for the planet fuel my desire to create beautiful fitness clothing for women while minimizing harm to the environment. It is essential for businesses to recognize their role in protecting the planet and take active steps to reduce their carbon footprint.

Reducing our carbon footprint is not just a business objective for Savage Babe Collection—it is a personal commitment driven by my love for the planet and the desire to protect it for future generations. Through sustainable materials, local production, a conscious supply chain, energy efficiency, and carbon offsetting, we strive to make a positive impact on the environment.

As customers, you play a crucial role in driving change. By choosing brands that prioritize sustainability, you become part of the solution. Together, we can create a future where businesses are intentional about their impact on the planet.

Our Reduce-Waste Mission:
Savage Babe Collection is intentional about what we do and how we do it. We believe that even small actions can make a significant difference when it comes to preserving the environment. Here are the key aspects of our reduce-waste mission:
Biodegradable Packaging: Making a Sustainable Shipping Process
We are proud to use biodegradable packaging materials for all our shipments. Unlike traditional packaging materials that contribute to landfill waste, biodegradable materials break down naturally over time. This reduces the strain on our environment and minimizes our carbon footprint. By using biodegradable packaging, we contribute to a sustainable shipping process that aligns with our commitment to the planet.

Significance of Biodegradable Packaging:
Reduced Environmental Impact: Biodegradable materials, such as compostable plastics and plant-based packaging, are designed to degrade without leaving harmful residues behind. They break down into organic matter, reducing pollution and minimizing the long-term impact on ecosystems.

Conservation of Resources: Biodegradable packaging is often made from renewable resources such as cornstarch, bamboo, or recycled paper. By utilizing these materials, we reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and contribute to the conservation of natural resources.

Mitigation of Landfill Waste: Traditional packaging materials, such as non-biodegradable plastics, can take hundreds of years to decompose in landfills. Biodegradable packaging, on the other hand, breaks down much faster, reducing the amount of waste that accumulates in these already overcrowded spaces.

Unique Products with Reduced Waste:
In addition to using biodegradable packaging, we also produce limited quantities of our products for each launch. This intentional approach ensures that our products are unique and exclusive, and customers can only purchase them while stocks last. By producing limited quantities, we minimize the risk of excess inventory and reduce the likelihood of unsold items ending up in landfills. This strategy not only keeps our products in high demand but also reduces waste in the production process.

Reusing Shipping Materials:
When customers exchange or return an order, we encourage them to reuse the original packaging if it’s still in good condition. By doing so, we reduce waste and promote a circular economy. In the blog post, we will emphasize the importance of reusing shipping materials and how it plays a vital role in minimizing our environmental footprint.

Local Pick-up Reuse:
For our local customers who frequently make pick-up orders, we urge them to return Savage Babe bags from previous purchases so that we can reuse them. This initiative further reduces the need for new packaging materials and showcases our commitment to sustainability.

Lightly Used Collection:
We believe in giving a second life to products whenever possible. Our ‘Lightly Used Collection’ features items such as sports bras and leggings that were previously used for launch photoshoots. Rather than letting these products collect dust in storage or fill up landfills, we offer them at a discounted price to our customers. This not only reduces waste but also provides an opportunity for our customers on a budget to own Savage Babe Collection

Collaboration for a Cause:
We have collaborated with other businesses that share our commitment to the environment. In the past, we have donated a portion of our proceeds to non-profit organizations supporting environmental causes. By joining forces, we aim to make a more significant impact and create a sustainable future together.

At Savage Babe Collection, sustainability is not just a buzzword – it’s at the core of our brand identity. We take our responsibility for environmental impact seriously and have implemented various strategies to reduce waste. Through our biodegradable packaging, the reuse of shipping materials, the lightly used collection, collaborations with like-minded businesses, and the production of limited quantities, we strive to make a positive difference in the fashion industry.

Embracing Recycled Materials: A Future Goal
As a small business, we understand the limitations that financial constraints can present. Currently, incorporating recycled materials into our product lineup is a goal that we are working towards as we continue to grow over the next 10 to 15 years. Our commitment to sustainability remains unwavering, and we aim to make this transition as soon as it becomes financially feasible.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

When the idea of starting my own business first crossed my mind, I was still working a regular 9-5 job. Deep down, I knew I wanted a career that offered more freedom and flexibility with my time. Despite this intuitive knowing, I went against it and pursued the entrepreneurial path anyway. Little did I know that it would lead me to create Savage Babe, a clothing brand dedicated to empowering women and creating a supportive community.

Following My Passion:
Six months before finally giving my two-week notice, I started my side hustle clothing brand, Savage Babe. I knew I wanted to make a difference in the lives of women, but I also wanted to incorporate my natural passions into the business. After all, I believed that true fulfillment would come from merging my desire to help others with my love for creating and designing.

The Joy of Creation:
From a young age, I’ve always been drawn to creative endeavors. I would spend hours alone in my bedroom, lost in the world of drawing, painting, crafting, and creating various things. I vividly remember my thrift shop adventures, where I would buy used clothing from places like Goodwill and transform them into entirely new pieces. I would proudly wear my creations to school, feeling a sense of accomplishment and self-expression.

The Birth of Savage Babe:
One fateful night in December 2018, the idea of starting a clothing brand struck me like lightning. It was then that Savage Babe was born. I knew that by building and growing this business, I could potentially reach thousands of women and share my own story to inspire and uplift them.

A Personal Journey Embodied:
I believe that the essence of Savage Babe is intertwined with my personal story, experiences, and spiritual growth throughout the years. It’s a brand that reflects the highs and lows of my own evolution, from childhood to the present moment. I am immensely grateful for the journey and how Savage Babe has evolved, not only as a clothing brand but as a community of empowered women. Together, we strive to unlearn old beliefs and thought patterns, creating lives filled with purpose and fulfillment.

A Grateful Team Effort:
I want to emphasize that I did not build this brand alone. I am blessed to have the support of my former business partner, Marlon, who joined me on this journey until his resignation in February 2023. Our past and current employees, as well as our dedicated team of ambassadors and customers, have been instrumental in the growth and success of Savage Babe. To all those who have been with us from the early days and to those who have recently joined our community, your constant love and support are deeply cherished. We never take it for granted.

Conclusion:
The story of Savage Babe is a testament to following intuition, combining passions, and creating a community of empowered women. It’s about more than just fashionable clothing—it’s about empowering each other to unlearn, grow, and create the lives of our dreams. As we continue on this journey together, let’s celebrate the joy of creation and the strength of a united community that can uplift and inspire one another.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

Embracing Ease: The Lesson of Unlearning for Success

In the journey of building Savage Babe since its inception in January 2018, I have come to realize that sometimes the lessons we need to learn involve unlearning deeply ingrained beliefs. One such lesson that has profoundly impacted me over the past five years is the misconception that success in business requires constant hustle and forceful actions. In truth, I have discovered that allowing things to flow naturally and embracing ease can lead to greater success and fulfillment.

The Fallacy of Constant Striving:
Initially, I bought into the notion that I had to work tirelessly and force every aspect of my business to achieve success. It seemed logical that answering every Instagram message immediately, rushing to reply to customer emails, or constantly giving away freebies would secure customer loyalty and propel my brand forward. However, the reality I eventually embraced was far different.

Embracing the Power of Space:
Through my experiences and lessons learned, I realized that I didn’t have to exert so much effort and constantly chase after results. The moment I gave myself permission to be okay with not responding to every message instantly or trying to make things happen forcefully, I witnessed a shift in my business. I learned that creating space and allowing things to unfold organically opened up new possibilities and enabled positive outcomes to naturally fall into place.

Losing Sight of My True Purpose:
It’s not easy for me to admit, but there was a period during the past five years when I became consumed by the pursuit of success, fame, money, and recognition. In my relentless pursuit, I lost sight of my true why—the core purpose behind Savage Babe. As a result, things started to unravel, and I realized that I needed to release control and stop trying so hard.

Finding Intention and Purpose:
Releasing the need to force outcomes was a pivotal turning point for me. Instead of rushing to make things happen, I shifted my focus to building my business with intention and purpose. It was a refreshing change where I began to enjoy the challenges, appreciate the lessons learned, and embrace the creative process of developing new products from scratch. By surrendering control and trusting the journey, I found a sense of alignment and fulfillment I had been missing.

Discovering the Joy in the Process:
As I let go of the steering wheel and allowed myself to be present in each moment, I experienced the joy of the entrepreneurial journey. I realized that success is not solely defined by external measures but by the joy and fulfillment found in the creative process, the lessons learned, and the connections formed with new people along the way. By embracing ease and letting go of the need to force outcomes, I discovered a deeper sense of purpose and alignment with Savage Babe.

The past five years have taught me invaluable lessons about unlearning preconceived notions and embracing a new approach to success. I now understand that working harder does not always equate to achieving greater results. Instead, by allowing space, surrendering control, and finding intention and purpose in each step of the journey, I have experienced a transformative shift. I encourage others to challenge the notion of constant hustle and instead embrace the joy of the process, trusting that success will naturally flow when we align ourselves with ease and authenticity.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

Embracing Change: A Journey of Business Pivots

Throughout our lives, we often encounter moments that require us to make significant pivots. These pivotal moments can occur in various areas, including business, career, or life as a whole. Today, I would like to share a recent story of a business pivot that I experienced with Savage Babe. It’s a tale of unexpected changes, tough decisions, and ultimately, embracing the opportunity to align the business with my own principles and values.

The Unexpected Departure:
In February 2023, my former business partner decided to leave Savage Babe. This unexpected departure led me to a crossroads. I was faced with a choice: dissolve the business or chart a new course forward. Initially, dissolving the business seemed like the natural path, as it had been discussed previously. It was what my mind was set on at the time.

The Moment of Reflection:
However, circumstances took an unforeseen turn. My former partner departed before we could finalize the dissolution, giving me a moment to pause and reflect. This unexpected twist compelled me to reassess my true intentions and consider whether I was ready to say goodbye to Savage Babe.

Choosing to Pivot:
After careful consideration and soul-searching, I made the decision to keep Savage Babe and embark on a pivot. I recognized this as an opportunity to reshape the business according to my personal principles and values. Although I knew that pivoting would come with its own set of challenges, I was ready to embrace the journey ahead.

Navigating the Transition:
Like any significant transition, pivoting a business requires navigating through uncertain and rocky terrain. I acknowledge that the process may not be entirely smooth right away, but I am prepared for the challenges that lie ahead. This year, my focus is on implementing the changes needed to align Savage Babe with my vision. I am excited about the transformations taking place and the positive impact they will have on the brand and our loyal customers.

Embracing the Unknown:
As I embark on this new chapter, I understand that not everything will fall into place immediately. It will take time and dedication to fully solidify the changes and see the desired results. However, I am ready and willing to embrace the unknown, knowing that each step forward brings me closer to the business I envision.

A Bright Future:
With the new changes and direction underway, I am filled with excitement and optimism for the future of Savage Babe. I am grateful for the continued support of our current customers, who have shown their enthusiasm for the brand’s evolution. While the full realization of these changes may take time, I am committed to working diligently throughout this year to make Savage Babe the best it can be.

Pivoting a business is never an easy decision, but it can lead to incredible growth and alignment. The unexpected departure of my former business partner became an opportunity for me to reassess and choose a new path for Savage Babe. As I navigate the transition and implement changes, I embrace the challenges and look forward to the positive impact they will bring. The journey ahead may be uncertain, but I am confident that with dedication and perseverance, Savage Babe will thrive and continue to serve our incredible community of empowered women.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://savagebabecollection.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/savagebabecollection/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/savagebabecollection
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUWeL2IhH77oXyYuNqHJlEw
• Other: https://open.spotify.com/show/4aHtHuiLpYDPJlR7ew38Wj?si=d34184426070421e

Image Credits
Marlon Orellana Marisa Zimmerman