Website: www.alldressedupandshy.com
Astrological Sign: Aquarius
Trade: crafty extraordinaire
Year Your Business was Founded: 2003
Other DIY affiliations: I participate in Stitch fashion show each year; Babes in Business; Texas Rollergirls
Myspace URL: www.myspace.com/alldresseudpandshy
My Blog: www.alldressedupandshy.com/blog
Favorite animal: canines
Favorite league of girls on wheels: Of course, TX Rollergirls

How did you get started?
This has been my dream ever since I was a kid. I used to modify my clothes back in elementary school. I never liked wearing the same clothing as everyone else and spending money on clothing wasn't an option for me. In highschool, I began thrifting and my favorite finds were the handmade 60's dresses. I never thought I could start a clothing line.. luckily some friends were great role models and very supportive. This past summer I made a skirt that ended up being too small. My friends let me put it up for consignment in their space at a local shop. It sold quickly so I made some more and they sold too. I soon met Jesse from Amet and Sasha and I was (and still am) completely inspired by her online shop. She helped me out a great deal and so did the mafia ladies and that's how All dressed up and Shy began.
 
Biggest Hurdle you encountered?
Time. I need more time in the day. It's hard to get it all done but if I have to get up early or stay up late to get my orders filled I will.

Lessons learned the hard way?
The hardest learning curve for me is how to manage every aspect of my business. It is very challenging to say the least. I perform every role in my company from designer, marketing, advertisement, web design, seamstress, accountant, packager, etc.

Most bizarre encounter with a customer?
I’ve been very fortunate to have had great experiences with my customers thus far. I really enjoy receiving emails from customers that describes how wearing one of my designs made their day.

Any advice about splitting your time between a day job and your business?
Learn quickly that sleep isn’t that important ☺  

Future Projects?
A craft book. I’m so excited about the ACM craft book. I truly have a great time with all the projects my fellow mafiosas have taken on as a group. It’s wonderful to be around such creative women.

Favorite Indie Business(es)?
Besides, my fellow mafiosa’s businesses I would say Sew Booyo, Chia Hats, Sweet Tooth, Lawless Designs...I could go on forever

Sage Advice?
Don't put something out in the world that you're not proud of... that being said, don't be overly critical.

Best thing about:
Running your own business: It’s really a thrill to see the fruits of my labor.
Knowing how to sew: It’s easy to create and alter clothing to fit my shape.
Being a rollergirl: Hockey Style checking another skater into the crowd of fans is a perfect and acceptable release of stress
Living in Austin: The people are amazingly good hearted and talented!

Worst thing about:
Running your own business: not enough time to get it all done.
Knowing how to sew: sewing through a finger nail..ouch, it really happens and it does really really hurt!
Being Vegetarian: when a person ask you to explain why you are a vegetarian.
Living in Austin: traffic and lack of public transportation


 more about the other mafiosa ...