While 2014 was all about development, 2015 is going to be the year of implementation - the year of the Bicycle Wrap Skirt. This week, being my first week back after a two week break, is all about reflection and projection. What that really means is that I've been making lists like a mad woman. Seriously. I've got three months until April and while that excites me to no end, it also terrifies me a little bit too. There is a lot to do between now and then!
If you've been keeping up with the progression of the skirt, then you probably already know that I am planning to launch a KickStarter in April to make the first batch of Bicycle Wrap Skirts available via pre-sale. The goal is to raise enough money to meet the minimums at a sew shop, and get the skirt into production. If you are at all familiar with KickStarter then you know that it is an all-or-nothing crowd-funding platform. That means that if I don't hit my goal, then I won't be able to go into production period. And the only reason I can think of for that happening would be if I don't get the word out. Using this model (or any model for that matter) means that spreading the word about the Bicycle Wrap Skirt will be absolutely crucial. And that in and of itself is no simple task. It involves writing articles and reaching out to media outlets, bloggers, editors, and the like.
Opening up to new people; asking for help; pitching my ideas - these are not my strongest areas (I prefer the role of artist/designer after all), but I read somewhere that you should always do the things that excite and scare you, and that is exactly what I plan to do for at least most of the year. If you aren't pushing back against your comfort zone then you aren't growing - and I'm all about growth this year.
Not only will I be launching the Bicycle Wrap Skirt, but I'll also be outlining four other apparel designs to add to my collection in the future. I'll be creating my first KickStarter campaign and organizing a series of Pop-up shops to coincide with my KickStarter launch. Meanwhile, I'm working out the logistics of creating marketing samples; an industrial pattern; and coordinating with a sew shop to get ready for the first production run of skirts. And whenever I see an opportunity, I plan to participate in local business networking and apply for business grants, awards, and investments to help get this project off the ground. All this and more in three months. Can I do it? I don't know, but I'll definitely be giving it my all.
So here's to 2015, the year of conquering my fears, asking for help, and sharing the Bicycle Wrap Skirt with the world!