In this episode Elizabeth speaks with Naomi Swalwell, the founding Director of Australian ethical and sustainable brand House of Lacuna. Focusing on traditional textile printing methods and hand embellishments, House of Lacuna ranges are produced in an ethical and sustainable supply chain. Circularity and closing the gap between design and manufacturing is at the forefront of why this brand exists. After spending more than ten years in the industry working in various design roles, Naomi has been crafting her business model to reflect her values around sustainable fashion by producing long lasting ethically made garments for women and girls to express themselves in. In this episode Naomi and Elizabeth discuss everything from setting up a strong business foundation, to the creative process, establishing supply chain, the importance of relationship and mentorship. Key Takeaways 1. A mentor can help keep you on track and accountable and reduce the loneliness and overwhelm that can often be part of starting out. 2. Have patience, resilience and the ability to adapt to situations - especially now 3. It's how you respond to challenges that matters, as you can turn them into positives 4. Putting in the work to set up a good supply chain and practices is key to your business 5. Making sales and receiving heartfelt testimonials from customers, that's where the true magic is You can find Naomi at: Instagram - @house_of_lacuna Website - www.houseoflacuna.com Want to join our 'Start Your Fashion Business' Programme & Community? If you would like to learn online, gain the support of mentors and join an engaged community, please head over to: www.fashionequipped.com.au/start-your-fashion-business-programme/ You can find Fashion Equipped over at: Instagram: @fashionequipped Podcast Insta: @fashionbusinessmindset Facebook: www.facebook.com/fashionequipped Website: www.fashionequipped.com.au Work with one of our Mentors at Your Mentor Collective www.fashionequipped.com.au/yourmentorcollective/ Let's do this together, let's make The Fashion Business, YOUR Business!