Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelly Thompson.
Kelly, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
The story of how I began sewing and thus my business is rather innocent in regard to my intentions. In 2016, I attended my first music festival and after returning home from four days of pure bliss I had never experienced, I felt as though a part of me had been awakened that had prior been dormant. There is a feeling of interconnectedness and acceptance between everyone. Something that also struck me was the freedom of expression in fashion choices.
People wear whatever they desire and the more extravagant the better! This funky fashion scene is what inspired me to want a unique, beautiful warm coat. Such a coat, however, can be quite pricey, so my Mother suggested to teach me how to sew my own. In a few short months, I caught on and I felt as though it came naturally to me. A lot of friends complimented my work and said they’d be interested in purchasing one. The following year I took a couple sewing classes at the local community college to perfect my skills. Last year (2019) I decided to start making them to sell.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My journey to starting my own business has not come without challenges and setbacks. Until the past year, I’d have never imagined myself to be starting a business selling something I created. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology in 2014 and following the completion of college was at a loss for what I wanted to do with my life. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to pursue and it felt agonizing not knowing.
I spent many years feeling defeated that I didn’t have a career in my field. When I discovered sewing, I felt as though I stumbled upon it. However, I would not call this luck. Through those challenging times, I always stayed true to myself, continued to experience new things, and never settled. It is in part to this curiosity that has gotten me where I am today. I found my love for sewing through doing something that brought me joy.
My advice to anyone struggling to find themselves or their passion is to be kind to yourself in the process. Everyone is on a different journey. Try not to feel the burden of societal timelines telling you that you should have a set career by the time you reach the age of 30. Try new things and don’t be afraid to go against the grain. To anyone just starting off on their adventure, have patience and know there are going to be challenged in the process. But good things come to those who work hard.
Please tell us about Monarchs on Mars.
My business, which is still a work in progress, is hand sewing coats and clothing. My specialty being in coats. I believe that what sets me apart from others in this industry is my clothing being handmade, here in the states, by my own hands. Fast fashion has become too much of a norm in this world. My products are something that should last a lifetime. Each coat is unique and a one-off. I pride myself on quality and craftsmanship. I believe artists put a little bit of their soul and spirit into every creation and I feel that energy carries into my coats.
So much of the media coverage is focused on the challenges facing women today, but what about the opportunities? Do you feel there are any opportunities that women are particularly well positioned for?
I strongly believe that women are well positioned for any job they desire. I do think, however, that women seem to be better positioned to own their own business selling goods or clothing.
Contact Info:
- Email: monarchsonmars@gmail.com
- Instagram: Monarchsonmars
Image Credit:
Matt Vandyke
Kelly Thompson
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