Amanda Toy
Nicole & Rose
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
What is your product(s)?
Nicole & Rose is a size inclusive slow fashion brand focused on empowering women to be their most authentic, beautiful, radiant and worthy selves. We aim to create timeless & effortless clothing that you will not only feel amazing in but also feel amazing about as it’s made with other humans, animals and the environment in mind.
Every item of clothing has been thoughtfully created with comfort, ease and versatility in mind and the timeless design allows for them to be worn for many years to come. We source natural and eco-friendly fabrics and all pieces are ethically made in Calgary, Canada.
Where were you with your idea or business before joining Factory45?
I have always wanted to start a clothing brand but it never felt like it could be a reality for me as I didn’t go to fashion school. I started sewing during the pandemic and after a year of a lot of learning I felt I might finally be ready to take the leap and start a clothing brand, but I had no idea where to start. I just happened to stumble upon Factory45 at that exact time and after taking the free workshop and gaining so much valuable knowledge I knew I had to join!
How did joining Factory45 help you?
It helped me in countless ways! The resources are so incredibly valuable. I was most worried about finding suppliers and a production partner and the lists and templates are honestly invaluable. The mentorship and support from Shannon and all of the other members was also invaluable. Being able to ask questions from people who have been in your shoes and knowing you have others cheering you on was so encouraging.
In your opinion, what is the most valuable thing about Factory45?
Honestly each one of those things! If I had to pick I would say the databases and mentorship but honestly it was all super valuable. I truly would not be where I am today without Factory45, I am so grateful for Shannon and the program and highly recommend it to anyone looking to start a fashion brand!
What were some big or small milestones that you hit after going through Factory45?
As I just recently launched my brand, launching was definitely the biggest milestone! It’s still surreal to me sometimes that I now have a clothing brand, something I have dreamed about for a very long time.
Please describe your business after Factory45.
I had a successful launch and am preparing for the next launch soon! I’ve also started working on the fall/winter collection and am really just figuring out things post-launch. My next dream is for Nicole & Rose to become my full-time job within the next year or two!
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