Diana Kerins
Bambina
New Jersey
What is your product(s)?
Bambina is a women’s swim and resort wear brand that’s proud to bring you sexy, comfy, sustainable styles we know you’ll wanna live in. From how we source materials to how we manufacture and package our products (and everything in between) we’re always learning and seeking out the most Earth-friendly ways to bring our collections to you. Our new swimwear has been created using innovative fabrics made from abandoned fishing nets and other plastic waste, and our resortwear is made from deadstock material, diverting perfectly usable fabric from ending up in a landfill.
We’re committed to keeping our production right here in the USA, and work with a women-owned factory in the heart of NYC’s garment district. For every order placed, we donate 1% to Bottomless Closet, an organization that empowers NYC women in need by providing them with necessary tools to prepare for the workforce and get back on their feet.
Where were you with your idea or business before joining Factory45?
Upon joining Factory45, we were already selling on our e-commerce website but felt directionless and lost. We had launched two collections prior to joining,but were struggling with sales and had no clear path forward. We joined Factory45 in hopes to gain a sense of community and accountability and learn from Shannon and the mentor’s expertise.
How did joining Factory45 help you?
Factory45 helped us in a number of ways and we are so happy we joined. Firstly, the sense of community and being surrounded by fellow fashion entrepreneurs who share common passions is invaluable. It’s easy to feel isolated or alone in entrepreneurship and everyone in the group including Shannon and the mentors are so generous with their knowledge. Working with Denisha, our alumni mentor, has helped so much to have someone with such positive and unwavering energy rooting for you. I have taken comfort in sharing both my accomplishments and missteps with her and look forward to her Voxer messages to keep me going. We have made friends and connections with fellow entrepreneurs who we are excited to collaborate with.
In your opinion, what is the most valuable thing about Factory45?
In my opinion the most valuable part of Factory45 has been the community and connections made both with Shannon and the other entrepreneurs in the group. The support of the women in my cohort has been great. We are currently working with Natalia (who we met in the group) on a custom print for our upcoming collection and it’s been a wonderful experience.
What were some big or small milestones that you hit after going through Factory45?
- We launched new products for the first time in two years this past June ‘22.
- I participated in my first live interview
- I have been more confident and comfortable speaking on camera and explaining my business to others
- I have become more resourceful with money and finding creative ways to problem solve
- My mother and I work together even better as a team now
Please describe your business after Factory45.
We now have more focus, clarity, and enthusiasm within our business. We have a clearer path forward more-so than we ever have in the past and it’s wonderful to know we have such a supportive community of like-minded people within Factory45.
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