We were lucky to catch up with Shelby Sides recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Shelby thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We love asking folks what they would do differently if they were starting today – how they would speed up the process, etc. We’d love to hear how you would set everything up if you were to start from step 1 today

I truly believe that every mistake I made and the obstacles I needed to work around were all very necessary to shape me and this business. There are instances that have happened recently that truly would have been a lot harder to work through if I didn’t already have a reference point from past situations. Even the positive experiences and opportunities I have come across all feel incredibly necessary in the development of Studio Sides. I have really good examples of what is achievable and it helps put in perspective what is left to learn.

If I had to something to do over, it would be how long I spend in my head. Daydreaming is a beautiful thing but it never becomes reality if there aren’t actions that follow. I also have the tendency to overthink the feedback and the overall process of creating, which can lead to stagnant creative periods. Had I learned how to let go of control over certain things and just get out of my own way, I feel like I would have grown into this craft a lot sooner.

Shelby, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Specializing in naturally hand dyed silk, Studio Sides captures nature in exclusive collections of wearable works of art and one-of-a-kind lifestyle pieces.

Botanical artist, Shelby Sides, fell into this craft on a random evening cooking dinner. A small splash of tumeric created a very noticeable stain on a brand new white tee. In researching for a way to remove the stain without the use of bleach, it was discovered that tumeric can be used as a natural dye. From there it spiraled into what this business is today.

Utilizing dye material created from real plants and flowers, Studio Sides offers 100% silk apparel, accessories, select bedding, and home decor. Each piece is hand dyed in Maui, Hawaiʻi and features creative renditions of daydreams.

In addition to experiencing nature in such a unique form, we hope that each of our blooms experience the luxury of silk on a daily basis. While it is a luxe fabric, you are highly encouraged to find a way to incorporate it in your life. Each day is precious and it really should feel that way.

Wearable Art collections are curated with the intention of being worn from the sheets to the streets. Collections for home highlight true creative expression through natural color. With a focus on small batch production, hand dyed items are available in limited quantities with only a few pieces available in select colorways.

How did you build your audience on social media?

In a lot of ways, my brand’s social media presence represents the things that I find most beautiful in day to day life. I like to think of it as a colorful love letter to the daydreamers and sunshine chasers. With a background in marketing, I do have the understanding that the current algorithm and trends ultimately dictate growth in terms of followers but I find that genuine connection has been a more successful marketing strategy. Finding platforms that spoke to me creatively and then consistently showcased the magic that I experienced in learning my craft, untapped an audience that I feel honored to engage with.

Bringing the audience glimpses of the behind the scenes and little moments in my personal life has developed connections that constantly inspire me. And in actively supporting others in their passion pursuits has led to a community that pours back into my own.

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

Seeking a community in the audience I slowly established. I cannot tell you how many opportunities, both creatively and personally, we have experienced solely out of genuinely supporting others. Word of Mouth has been a huge contributor to our current customers, and it is such a positive way to keep everyone inspired.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.studiosides.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/studiosides
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/studiosideshi

Image Credits

Ana Garcia (Model in Yellow), Ryan Findeisen (Model in White Skirt)