One of the new dresses released this week
Hi Friends,
I just got back from a three-week break from the hustle of the city. I have to admit touching grass is so refreshing! I heard the birds chirping and kids laughing. Being in a different setting was a retreat for me to think over what we're doing and the overall direction. I'd love to share some things we'll plan to do this fall.
MORE SHOOTS
For our Royalty dresses launch, we did a studio shoot in addition to the creative photos taken in Nepal. It was worth it because you got to see how they look on more body types and how to dress them down. Since we'll be getting interns soon, they can plan the shoots for future collections, and we could do them every other week!
It's good to see how a dress can be styled different ways, to see it on different body types. More posting on social media. This will increase our demand! Plus, it's creative to see different backdrops. Here's one we recently put together that will launch in August:
Jill modeled our next collection drop at Pondview Lavender Farm in Wisconsin
WHOLESALE
Well, we finally did a photo shoot far in advance! Two weeks ago a team of Elegantees supporters gathered at Pondview Lavender Farm and shot our entire collection with the beautiful backdrops. So our catalog is actually available to show, with 3 more weeks to spare until this collection is available online!
Meanwhile, one remote intern has been helping me with Instagram connecting and lots of stores are asking us for a catalog. Since the pandemic, we have not seen much with wholesale to boutiques and small chains. We're hoping that we'll see more orders then and solve the production bottleneck issue that is about to come.
THANKFUL FOR PASSION
I was chatting with Michele (she's leading the nonprofit) about how we're getting so many things done but not feeling burnout. We actually feel quite productive, and I think it's the joy we put into everything.
We want to see more women come through our programs and be offered jobs. This is such a motivator. The collaborating with others make it something to love from a work perspective too!
NEW YORK OFFICE UPDATE
We've been fundraising for the office space in NYC to be able to have in-person interns. I was blown away to see generosity pour in. We have enough to cover the first few months rent (based on estimates of what rent will be). Seeing the provision and support come in has me trusting enough that we can take the steps to get the lease, and trust all will be provided as we go.
Hope you have a beautiful weekend, and enjoy whatever you're putting your hands and heart into. You have so much to offer, and also to receive. I am so glad to do more collaborating because it makes the journey so fun to do with passionate people who have become friends.
Thank you for your support and enthusiasm for all our pursuits!
In Freedom,
Katie
