May 01 2014.
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Determination and never giving up on her dream is what motivated Shayani Alwis to not only launch her own label Shay Int. but to open a lovely boutique in the heart of Colombo. This alumna of Academy of Design is blazing a trail as a young designer creating hip affordable clothing for especially young people. Harnessing Facebook as a powerful marketing tool Shayani posts ‘selfies” of her wearing her own designs which goes down a storm and keeps her clientele updated on the latest designs in store. Here, Shayani reveals her motivation to succeed.
What is the single most important reason for your success?
Determination and dedication are the main characteristics which have driven me to achieve my relative success.
How did you come up with this idea?
This idea has been with me for a long time. Since my childhood I have always dreamed of being a fashion designer and it is something I worked for since I was a child. I set myself various goals in order to achieve my idea.
How do you balance work, life and friends?
I have set myself a time schedule and I make sure I stick to it. Most of my day I spend in the factory checking on the progress of the designs and production. I then come in to the store to ensure that everything is running accordingly. My friends are supportive of my work and they tend to plan activities around my schedule which is quite helpful. Some might say I am a bit of a workaholic as I tend to work seven days a week. I feel I need to put in this much of work as my business is still growing.
What were your most difficult obstacles when starting your business?
For me the most difficult aspect was dealing with factories. Coming to terms with the manic workload was also quite daunting and I had to condition my mind to take on all these additional responsibilities.
Any advice for young people who don’t have the courage to start up their business?
All I can say is to set your mind to it and make a start. Whatever your goal is, get inspired. It could be anything, but you have to start somewhere, that will keep you going.
How old were you when you started your business?
I was 23 years old when I first started out.
When did you first get the idea for your business and what did you do towards making it a reality?
When I completed my degree in Fashion Design, I had an idea that someday I will produce clothes under my own label. However, I was offered an internship with MAS Linea Aqua which I completed. During this period, I had time to decide if I wanted to venture on my own. I had always collected many images of things that inspired me and mentally I had a vision of what my shop would look like! At the end of my internship I found a property broker to help me source store space, I found a factory and fabric suppliers. After that I told my parents that I had got everything lined up and they were very supportive.
If you could add a famous entrepreneur to your team who would it be and why?
British fashion designer Stella McCartney is one I would like to have in my team, as I can relate to her style and she inspires me.
How did you get the capital to start up your venture?
My parents were very impressed that I had everything planned to even the finest detail and they said they would be my main investors.
What is your “Golden Rule” in business?
Never stop challenging yourself and never give up.
Where do you hope to see your business in 5 years time?
Ideally I would like to take my brand Shay Int. overseas.
By Tina Edward Gunawardhana
0 Comments
Shehani says:
May 02, 2014 at 12:00 amI purchased a her stuff once. Worst quality. Fell apart after one wash.
ron pieres says:
May 02, 2014 at 12:00 amSet up an internet shop shop front and you will make a mint. I wish you every success.
Xuan Ngo says:
May 02, 2014 at 12:00 amYou are a hottie darling....
Saumya says:
May 02, 2014 at 12:00 amMaterials are not so good. But the designs are great!
Cassandra says:
May 02, 2014 at 12:00 amWish you all the luck in the world. Best wishes for every success!
cassie says:
May 02, 2014 at 12:00 ami dropped by your store last week,and my god ur clothes are beautiful !! cant wait for the next visit.also on the side note ,love taking personal style advice from you shay :)
nicky karunarathna says:
May 03, 2014 at 12:00 amHey Shehani, it is disgusting comment. Please do not put your countrymen or women down. It is a golden rule paramount in ethical and moral upbringing. I wish her all the best.
Deanne says:
May 06, 2014 at 12:00 amI have to say a agree with Saumya and Shehani. The quality is very bad.
felicia says:
May 07, 2014 at 12:00 amThe designs are well thought of but execution has been very bad. The cut and fit is not the best. Although not one of kind atleast the export quality stores have some fit and quality.
hashini kamanwella says:
May 09, 2014 at 12:00 amI personally didn`t like the clothes, fabric was very poor quality and the prices do not match the quality of work. Designs were average the store consisted mostly of long flowy skirts, you can find these anywhere and I would pay such alot for it.
Raleema says:
May 09, 2014 at 12:00 amDidn`t have a good experience with the clothes. Maybe it was the two skirt I ot from there but won`t be going back since I spent over 5000 on them.
prasantha says:
May 12, 2014 at 12:00 amfamilly
Minelle says:
May 22, 2014 at 12:00 amLove the designs! The quality of the fabric has improved a lot since my first visit. You are really growing as a designer and entrepreneur. I wish you all the best.