We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Wendy Hee. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Wendy below.
Hi Wendy, thanks for joining us today. Let’s start with the story of your mission. What should we know?
At the core of my business is a mission that transcends mere craftsmanship; it’s a commitment to sustainability, creativity, and a conscious approach to fashion. My mission is to create exquisite, one-of-a-kind bags by primarily using reclaimed, scrap, and vintage materials. This commitment is not just a business strategy but a reflection of my deep-seated belief in the importance of eco-friendliness in the world of fashion.
The meaningful essence of my mission lies in the desire to redefine the narrative of consumerism by providing a sustainable alternative. Every bag I create is a testament to the potential for beauty and functionality within materials that others might overlook. It’s a small yet significant step towards reducing the environmental impact of fashion and promoting a circular economy.
Being a bag maker is not just a profession for me; it’s a way to contribute to a world where creativity and responsibility coexist. It brings me immense pride to build a business that stands for more than just profit margins. By using reclaimed and vintage materials, I not only reduce waste but also breathe new life into forgotten fabrics, weaving stories into every stitch.
In essence, my mission is a declaration of responsibility—to the planet, to the art of bag making, and to the community that appreciates sustainable, unique craftsmanship. It’s a journey that brings purpose to my work, and it’s the driving force behind every bag that leaves my studio—a symbol of conscious creativity and a step towards a more sustainable future
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.
My name is Wendy Hee, the artisan behind ‘Made In Manoa’, where each bag is more than just an accessory—it’s a wearable piece of art. Nestled in the enchanting Manoa Valley on Oahu, I draw inspiration from the beauty that surrounds me to craft bags that tell a story and make a statement.
At Made In Manoa, I specialize in handcrafting bags using primarily vintage, reclaimed, and scrapped materials. This commitment to sustainable fashion is not just a trend for me; it’s a way of life. Every piece I create is a celebration of history, a nod to the past lives of fabrics and materials that might otherwise be forgotten. It’s a journey of transforming the old into something new, vibrant, and purposeful.
What excites me the most about my work is the opportunity to blend creativity with consciousness. Each bag is a canvas, a unique expression of artistry, and a reflection of the vibrant spirit of Manoa Valley. The valley is not just my workshop; it’s an integral part of the story woven into every stitch.
What sets Made In Manoa apart is the meticulous handmade process. Crafting each bag is a labor of love, an intricate dance of design and sustainability. I believe in the power of slow fashion, where quality takes precedence over quantity, and every creation carries the touch of human hands.
Moreover, the name of my brand is a tribute to my neighborhood—Manoa. It’s not just a geographical reference; it’s a symbol of commitment to creating products that reflect the spirit of this beloved neighborhood.
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
There was a pivotal moment in my career that shaped the trajectory of my professional journey. Having graduated from the University of Hawaii with a degree in Management Information Systems, I embarked on a successful path in Information Technology. Climbing the ranks to a directorship in software development, I felt a sense of accomplishment and stability.
However, unexpected turns are an undeniable reality of life. The company I worked for had to close its doors, leaving me without a job. It was a shock, to say the least, and a moment of profound realization about the unpredictability of our lives.
This unexpected turn of events became a defining moment for me. Rather than viewing it solely as a setback, I saw an opportunity for a new chapter. It was a moment of clarity, realizing that life’s uncertainties could also be gateways to new possibilities.
In the face of this challenge, I made the conscious decision to pivot and explore entrepreneurial ventures. It was a shift I hadn’t previously considered, given my full-time commitment to my IT career. This transition wasn’t just about finding another job—it was about creating something of my own, delving into the world of entrepreneurship.
Starting my own business became a journey of self-discovery, creativity, and resilience. It required adapting my skill set and mindset to the demands of entrepreneurship. The experience of building something from the ground up, navigating the complexities of running a business of my very own, and learning to embrace uncertainty has been both challenging and immensely rewarding.
This pivot not only reshaped my professional path but also opened up new avenues for personal and professional growth. It taught me the value of adaptability, the importance of seizing opportunities in adversity, and the fulfillment that comes from taking control of one’s destiny.
In retrospect, what seemed like a setback turned out to be a springboard for a new and exciting phase of my life. It reinforced my belief in the power of resilience and the potential for positive transformation even in the face of unexpected challenges.
Any thoughts, advice, or strategies you can share for fostering brand loyalty?
At the heart of my business philosophy is the belief that being a small business brings an incredible advantage—the ability to genuinely connect with each and every client. For me, fostering brand loyalty is not just about transactions; it’s about building meaningful relationships with those who appreciate the artistry and sustainability behind my bags.
One of the strongest pillars of my brand is the small but loyal clientele I’ve cultivated. Every purchase is an opportunity to create a lasting connection. I go beyond the transaction by including a handwritten note and a tag detailing the pre-loved materials that went into the bag. It’s a personal touch that resonates with my clients, and I believe it adds an extra layer of value to their purchase.
For those who have chosen my bags, I see them as more than customers; they are part of a community, my tribe. Loyalty is a two-way street, and I make it a priority to reciprocate that loyalty by being exceptionally accommodating. Whether it’s custom adjustments, addressing concerns, or fixing any issues, I want my clients to feel not just satisfied but genuinely cared for. This level of personalized attention goes a long way in building trust and fostering a lasting connection.
In the digital age, social media becomes a powerful tool to extend this sense of community. I actively engage with my clients on various platforms, sharing behind-the-scenes stories of my creative process. From inspiration and concept to design and the actual crafting of each bag, I invite them into my world. This transparency allows clients to become a part of the narrative, creating a sense of shared ownership not just of their bag but of the entire creative journey.
Building a ‘tribe’ on social media isn’t just about growing numbers; it’s about cultivating a community that resonates with the values of my brand. By sharing the stories behind each bag, I aim to create a deeper connection and allow clients to feel closer to me as the bag maker. This, I believe, is a powerful way to foster brand loyalty, turning clients into advocates who share not just the products but the passion and ethos that define my brand.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://madeinmanoa.com/
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/made.in.manoa
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-hee-16a31a4/
- Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/MadeInManoa
Image Credits
Michael Hee