Today we’d like to introduce you to Reshma Alfus.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I learned crocheting from my mom over 20 years ago. I watched my mom crochet and learned the skill as she made intricate patterns come to life. I finally taught myself how to knit in early 2016 and have been addicted ever since. I started Hello Lavender because I needed to be my own boss, to have an avenue where I could express my creativity freely and in my own way. I’ve never been a 9-5 person. Traditional work hours have never suited me. That’s not how my creativity works. It can strike anytime, anywhere. Owning my own business has allowed me to make my own hours, explore different towns and cities, and find inspiration where it happens to pop up. The alternative is sitting in a cubicle or building all day where I feel trapped and creatively stifled. No thanks. I’ll take freedom and creativity any day.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I’ve been lucky in my journey so far. I haven’t encountered many major struggles with the business (knock on wood!). I’ve had tremendous support from my husband, friends, and family from day one. I’ve met incredible women entrepreneurs recently, who I now consider close friends and have been such an inspiration. It’s so important to surround yourself with like-minded/creative people who understand what it takes to start and run a business. We support each other’s businesses and encourage each other along the way, all the while bouncing ideas off one another.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Hello Lavender – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I make handmade modern knitwear and fashion accessories. I specialize in winter knit beanies and I feel like I’m known for my crochet fringe earrings. Everything I create is handmade by me, which is something I pride myself on. The nature of handmade goods means that there are fewer of them, so whatever you’re wearing is unique as you. I feel like my color and yarn choices set me apart, as I support a lot of indie dyers and purchase my yarn from them. Using yarn from indie dyers gives me the opportunity to make truly one of a kind pieces since no two skeins of yarn are the same. I believe in community over competition and try to support as many makers along my journey as possible.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
I’m getting ready to try my hand at dyeing my own yarn, which is exciting and terrifying at the same time. To be able to create my own colors and use them for my knitwear means so much to me. I’m such a colorful person, so the thought of creating the perfect color for the perfect piece has me itching to dive in headfirst. I started with natural dyeing using plants, fruits, vegetables, and spices. The next step is acid dyeing, which is a whole other realm that requires special equipment and a ton of trial and error. I’m hoping to get the acid dyeing up and running over the Summer to prep for my busy season in the Fall and Winter!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.hellolavender.com/
- Email: info@hellolavender.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hellolavenderdesign/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hellolavenderdesign/
Image Credit:
Sonya Kammes Photography, @sonyakammes
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