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Behind The Scenes / From The Workroom / Handmade Wardrobe / Inspiration / Personal & Faith

Taking Care Of Business

I’m reaching a point in my clothing line where I can no longer keep up with demand. I’m sewing late into the night. I’m sewing when my kids are awake and I should be playing with them. I’m sewing all through the weekend. And though on one hand this is good news, because it means my line is growing and successful –  It’s been breaking me, slowly and surely.

It’s at points like this, when I get stuck in a funnel of survival, that I’m really grateful for my husband. Because it’s at these points he comes up with infuriatingly simple solutions – like, why don’t you get your line manufactured instead of making it yourself? I’m glad one of us isn’t crazy.

Actually, it’s not that I hadn’t thought of this before – it just wasn’t an option. Back in Iowa we were hours from any hubs of commerce where manufacturers were based, which would make the logistics a nightmare – and I had tried in vain before to find a decent seamstress in my own town. But now we’re so close to DC – well that’s a different story. So for the last few weeks I’ve been researching my little butt off. I’ve been calling, emailing and basically harassing every factory in town, every seamstress, every small sewing company. And this past weekend, I went and had consultations with a few. Actually it took up my whole weekend. I was exhausted, and tired… but you know what? I think I found a manufacturer I really like. I have them making a test sample this week, and if I’m happy with the quality, then I’m hoping to use them from now on. And you know what that means? All those things in my store that say “sold out” might not be anymore – I KNOW how awesome is that? Thoughts, prayers and crossed fingers will be much appreciated this week – this could be the beginning of taking it to the next level. And so even though I look a little like a wreck – inside, I’m doing a happy dance.

About Author

Meg is the Founder and Creative Director of Megan Nielsen Patterns, and is constantly dreaming up ideas for new sewing patterns and ways to make your sewing journey more enjoyable! She gets really excited about design details and is always trying to add way too many variations to our patterns.

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Erindyan
12 years ago

I am a new reader and I have never managed to snag anything from your line, but I think your clothes are gorgeous, as are you, inside and out. I’m so pleased your business is growing and super excited for you!

Rebecca
12 years ago

Congratulations! What exciting news. I’ll keep you in my thoughts during this big transition!

Elle Croft
12 years ago

Totally exciting! Congrats; that’s a really big step; hopefully it’s the first step towards more big things! Can’t wait to be able to buy something before everything’s snapped up!

Terri
12 years ago

This is thrilling! A big step in the right direction.

chie
12 years ago

that’s such an exciting news meg! i hope it all works out:)

sarah
sarah
12 years ago

This really is exciting news! I hope everything does come back into stock – I keep hoping i get my hands on the darling ranges dress!

Caitlin
12 years ago

good for you sweetheart! that’s such exciting news. Can’t wait to see how this helps you grow your business! xx

ally
12 years ago

very cute skirt..love it!!!

*emy
*emy
12 years ago

Meg this sounds great!!! I hope it works out! CAN’T wait to see what you have in store for us this year!

Annelise
Annelise
12 years ago

I absolutely adore this outfit, so stylish!

Can’t wait to hear how the manufacturer goes, I’ve got my eye on a Banksia Top! And the Eucalypt Top… :)

BiblioMOMia
12 years ago

Congratulations! What a big step for your business–and for your family. I can’t wait to hear what’s in store…ummm…literally…

jenloveskev
12 years ago

hello pretty lady! I love this outfit on you. Great colors!

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