Liz Frandsen
Liz Riden
Philadelphia
What is your product(s)?
LIZ RIDEN is a leather handbag and accessory brand. We specialize in American made, classic handbags in timeless silhouettes.
Where were you with your idea or business before joining Factory45?
Before Factory45, LIZ RIDEN was a completely solo operation. I (Liz), designed, cut, and sewed every single bag order that came in. I joined Factory45 to be able to learn how to confidently navigate manufacturing and to be able to successfully scale my business from just myself.
How did joining Factory45 help you?
Through Factory45, my business has grown exponentially. The course work has given me the knowledge to feel comfortable communicating with suppliers, manufacturers, and industry professionals. A lot of the insider “secrets” about how to talk to factories was greatly helpful, as well as the resources provided. The amount of downloadable content provided in this course alone is priceless. Shannon/Factory45 provided me with a database of ethical suppliers, manufacturers, pattern makers, and great industry contacts. In addition, the Factory45 community has opened up my network to so many new contacts and opportunities. The Facebook group has been wonderful for bouncing ideas around and getting feedback with other entrepreneurs. In addition, through Factory45, I was able to secure placement in an amazing retail store, For Now in Boston! This retail placement also lead to 3 other stores discovering my brand as well as new customers.
In your opinion, what is the most valuable thing about Factory45?
The most valuable part of Factory45 so far for me has been all of the downloadable content and course work. I am still in the process of finding manufacturing, but having a “guidebook” to fall back on has been INCREDIBLE. It’s so nice to be able to have all of the content saved in one place for easy reference, and the printed out resources handy for any sourcing needs.
What were some big or small milestones that you hit after going through Factory45?
Through Factory45, I have begun thinking a lot more about my ethical supply chain, from the very beginning supplies through the manufacturing. This has allowed me to make decisions that align with my core values while I scale my brand right from the start. I have gained a lot more wholesale accounts through understanding my brand and positioning better, and can’t wait to begin implementing what I’ve learned to find a manufacturer to grow even more!
Please describe your business after Factory45.
After Factory45, the LIZ RIDEN brand is now meeting with manufacturers to begin sample making and production for the next year! We are hoping to launch a Kickstarter campaign this summer, and feel fully equipped and ready to grow!
Hear from Factory45 Alumni Liz Frandsen about Small Batch Manufacturing
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