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Mom Entrepreneur: Homa Yarmand
Business: Modify Clothing
Website: www.modifyclothing.com
Tell us about your Modify Clothing
I designed A convertible little black dress that can change it’s look as often as you change your mind, mood or attitude. you can create a wardrobe of looks with this dress and a selection of fabric accessories that can be tied, twisted or wrapped. Stylish, versatile and fun, Modify Clothing goes where you go – from day to dinner, playful to romantic, casual to dressy, and everything in between. Just slip into our slim, body flattering dress, grab some wraps (they fit easily in your bag or tote), and you’re ready for just about any occasion. Perfect for travel, Modify is the only dress you’ll need to pack, and you’ll save valuable space in your carry-on or suitcase.
What inspired you to start your business?
Modify was inspired by the observation that most girls buy a dress, wear it few times , then stash it in the closet like yesterday’s news. And because I don’t like any kind of waste, I started thinking about convertible dresses .
How long have you been in business?
I started Modify Clothing in March 2009. the same month that i turned 60. It was a birthday present to myself.
What did you do in your past work life?
I have a Ba in social work, and a MS in education from pepperdine university.
couple of years ago i went back to collage I took . 24 courses in early child hood education. I love working with young children . and i worked as a preschool teacher. i dont have any formal training in design and fashion. but since i was very young i could make dresses for myself and latter for my daughter. When I started Modify Clothing I did not know any thing about the business side of it . I just had a design. so i started researching and talking to peaple online. getting advice..I talked with PRs and got their advice and i worked with a PR for a little while, but I coul not afford them any more. so I though my self what to do. and here I am.
Describe your ideal workday.
I am not as busy now that my children are not living with us anymore. Every morning when I wake up , before i get out of bed, while i am still in bed, I do some kind of meditation. I say to myself that it is a very good day and everything is great. I send good thoughts to my children and everyone that i think needs it. then i get up and start my day. I go online and check my mails and orders and then i pack the orders and mail them. i do some research on how to do publicity .
What have been some of your major successes?
I think to make a concept to reality is a success by itself.
I think When Modify Dress was published on july13issue of Woman’s Wold Magazines , and then it was talked about on NY PIX 11, MORNING SHOW ( all for free) was my majors successes. It meant that others think it is a good product because they liked the dress and it wasn’t advertisement.
What have been some of your major challenges?
the most challenging aspect of my business is the publicity. Whit not much cash to spend on advertising, I am looking for free publicity. People buy the things they know about, and that is what I sm trying to do, make Modify Clothing a recognizable name.
On those impossible days, what motivates you to keep going?
Recently we have been facing some financial problems and I need to make money . So In any situation I think that this has to work and I have to find a way to solve the problem and go on.
Do you have a motivational quote?
I believe in universal energy.and that we are all connected. I think If you really want something, you will get it. I think of people as good and willing to help me. So I am not afraid to ask then for help.
every day I say ” today is the best day of my life”
What is your balancing secret in managing a business and family?
I love my family and they are the most important thing to me . right now that my kids are grown up , I don’t have much problem , because I have enough time for both. But for younger mothers I know it is a challenge.
If there was one piece of advice you could give to your children about running a successful business, what would it be?
To be successful you have to know your business, so do research and learn as much as you can. also treat people nice and fair , (workers or customers )
Do you have a favorite business tool and/or resource?
Internet. whenever I have a problem I go straight to my pc and soon i find some kind of answer.
What is next for your business?
I really love to make a line of convertible Dresses. I do have some Ideas and designs. But to do that there should be financial support. I Also Like to make it in plus sizes too.
Your two cents sales pitch?
I am still learning. Selling is not one of my talents. But I am doing everything that I can. I wish I was only responsible for the design. that way I did not have to wry about selling.
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