Episode #126: Toy Lessons Learned From My First Fashion Company Part 1
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The Toy Coach’s entrepreneurial journey didn’t start in toys, but instead it started in fashion. In 2012 Azhelle Wade, aka The Toy Coach created a fashion brand called Costumize Me. What started as a made to order costume company, evolved into a convertible event wear brand with the tag line 1 dress 100 ways to wear. The story of Azhelle building a brand in an industry she knew nothing about is one that she is excited to share with you on the podcast today, because it’s one that you can probably relate to as a new-ish toy creator. Listen to how Azhelle conquered that fish out of water feeling and dove into an industry she knew so little about.
This two part episode series details a toy designer’s entrepreneurial journey in the world of fashion. And because this is The Toy Coach podcast, every lesson learned and mistake made is packaged into a lesson that you can take and apply to your toy journey today. From naming your brand, filing your trademark, testing your concept, changing your idea, flipping from inventor to entrepreneur…this story covers the highs and lows of entrepreneurship in great detail with your favorite toy coach as your guide.
EPISODE CLIFF NOTES
Find out when and how Azhelle first came up with the perfect name of her clothing brand and made sure it wasn’t already taken [3:20]
Learn the benefit of investing in marketing materials and promotions before you purchase inventory on your product idea. [11:42]
When to work with an expert to take your initial idea to the next level. [16:42]
Your life experiences could inspire the evolution of your amazing toy or game idea. Hear how Azhelle’s experiences inspired and changed her fashion company. [20:58]
Can you DIY your first product run? Maybe! Find out how Azhelle DIYed hers. [27:48]