NEW BREED SCHOLARSHIP

Why did you want to be a part of this exciting initiative?

It takes much courage to share your creative spark to a larger audience, my younger self took the leap 30 years ago when i opened my store GOOSE in 1996. With the confidence to do so, with alongside my almighty cheer squad. I am so pleased to be a part of this initiative to celebrate and encourage those bravely taking their first steps in the incredible retail world. I love the idea of supporting emerging brands to keep creating, keep pushing their ideas to see how they too can grow.

What is it that you look for in a new brand or product?

I am forever curious and evolving in the retail space, I strive to keep a point of difference and to look for products that compliment our story. Products that stand out from the crowd, I love finding the unexpected that I know our customers won’t see everywhere else. There has to be a sense of individuality with integrity for it to be showcased at GOOSE, to work with like minded brands and makers for our mutual benefit.

Also a huge factor is to make sure the numbers work, margin especially in these challenging times is so important to make sure that the complete story works for all. The product or brand might be fabulous however without the right margin it can't find a space on the shelf in the store.

Being a successful business owner, what is your one piece of advice to new start-ups and people running their own small businesses?

Don’t spend too much time looking sideways at what everyone else is doing. It’s important to stay inspired, listen and evolve, but you also need to trust your own instincts. The reason people connect with small businesses is because there is a person, an idea and a personality behind them. Hold onto that. You don’t need to be everything to everyone : you just need to know who you are and back it.

As a creative it can be exhausting, with your brain rarely switching off, it’s so important to try to find your life balance. Take time to step outside and away from the noise to find clarity and to keep your own unique vision + keep that creative spark x

Why did you want to be a part of this exciting initiative?

I love seeing all the new creative business owners out there! There truly is so much innovation. To see those who have a passion for a new product or new approach and maybe just need a little leg up or kickstart to get in front of the right people is something I love being able to help with. help with fresh perspectives to help guide through that start-up phase.

What is it that you look for in a new brand or product?

Someone who has thought of a unique selling point. Whether that is a new design, product or way of doing things. That may be in packaging, branding, the story they tell or even colours. I also want to see if they have thought of the whole package. Who their customer is, how they will sell it, the packaging, the price points and that USP again!! To see the imagery and the way they present that product is so important now also. No longer can it just be a good idea. You have to know how to market your product too.

Being a successful business owner, what is your one piece of advice to new start-ups and people running their own small businesses?

Running your own business requires persistence and resilience. You cannot give up if barriers present themselves or things go wrong. It is about constantly learning and improving. You need to be resourceful and know when to ask for help and outsource certain tasks. You cannot do it all yourself. Accept that early on and get a mentor or coach to guide you.

What made you want to continue the New Breed Scholarship?

The Life Instyle team love nothing more than seeing our brands flourish and thrive, it’s why we do what we do! We know that it takes a hell of a lot of blood, sweat, tears and sleepless nights to start a new business and we want to support the bold and the brave business owners who take these risks. We understand and appreciate one of the biggest challenges for small start-ups is getting your product in into the hands of potential customers, there really is no substitute for retailers being able to touch and try the product out. In addition to this growing your networks is also an essential part of the mix. The program has been designed to provide just that and is complimented with expert mentoring during the journey to ensure you feel supported and have the best chance at success. We have been completely humbled by the positive feedback of this program being a game changer for start-ups and we are excited to continue to play a part in the growth and success of emerging small business.

What is it that you look for when a new brand applies to exhibit at Life Instyle?

We know that Life Instyle visitors are continually looking for ‘what’s new’ so we are always on the lookout for brands that are original, creative, innovative, unique, and of course…beautifully designed. Brands that have a strong focus on being, sustainably produced, ethically produced, cruelty free , socially conscious and Australian designed and owned.

What is your one piece of advice to someone starting out?

Don't be afraid of being afraid. Sometimes the one thing you need for growth is the one thing you are most afraid to do.

Why did you want to be a part of this exciting initiative? 

Because I love seeing creative people succeed! It can be tough out here for the makers, but we all benefit from helping each other up. Plus, it’s my job to be across up-and-coming brands. This feels like a cheeky sneak peek into the future.

What is it that you look for in a new brand or product?

Passion, because if you’re not passionate about your brand, then why should we be? Strong, consistent branding, because inconsistent branding just muddies the message. And finally, consideration. Consideration for the customers, the people who are making the product and the environment. 

What is your one piece of advice to new start-ups and people running their own small businesses?

It’s a bit of a cliché, but you kind of have to push through the “What if I’m not good enough?” part. If you have a great idea, and you’ve done the research and you’ve done the prep, but the one thing holding you back is self-doubt, then you just need to push through and go for it.