This month’s episode features an entrepreneur who is involved in sustainable fashion. Enjoy.
Could you kindly introduce yourself?
My name is Lalita Nana Sarpomaa Bannerman and I’m 29 years old with a Masters Degree in International Relations.
Tell us all about Blema Cedi Shop?
Blema Cedi Shop (Vintage by Blema) is a Sustainable Fashion business with the core mission to provide affordable fashion and lifestyle and to reduce waste by reusing and giving new life to old things.
How long have you been running this business?
Blema Cedi shop was registered in 2017, but I’ve been running this business for 3 years.
What gave you the idea for your business?
I have always been a fan of thrifting and I hate buying expensive clothes. In my bid to help save the environment, I decided to give people the option to thrift and shop without leaving their homes at affordable prices.
Did you tell people about your idea? How did they receive it?
I actually didn’t discuss or consult anyone before starting my business. I knew what I wanted to do, and I did it.
What kind of market did you have in mind?
My target market is everyone. Everyone likes stylish clothes that are affordable.
How difficult was it to start?
It really wasn’t difficult for me to start.
What challenges do you face on a day-to-day basis?
My main challenge will have to be people complaining about clothes being always sold out online. Lol.
What has been the worst experience of running your business?
Every experience is a chance to do things in a different way so I can’t think of the worst experience.
What has been the best experience?
Some of my best experiences include my customer feedback. They are always so happy when they receive a delivery because I always add a “freebie”.
How do you market your business?
I always get the “Oh I love what you’re wearing” and then I just show you my Instagram business page. My customers also do a lot of referrals and I’m grateful for that.
What has the response to Blema Cedi Shop been so far?
Amazing! Although I initially started it for the ladies I’m about to open a gentlemen’s store because I’ve been getting requests to provide that service.
Do you have any employees?
I have one employee who mans my Blema Cedi Kiosk. I have a few side employees who iron, do deliveries etc.
How does entrepreneurship compare to a regular job?
Entrepreneurship is a regular job that provides regular jobs.
How can someone get your clothes?
You can shop Vintage by Blema on Instagram @vintagebyblema or you can visit our cute kiosk in Labone, Peter Ala Adjetey Avenue.
Thank you for your time.