Pheobe Diete-Spiff has always loved fashion and because of her dedication to her passion, she has now turned her hobby into the business of her dreams. She is constantly seeking to better herself, consistently learning new tricks to her trade, and because of her persistence and patience in honing her craft, her clothing line is absolutely stunning and creatively unique. Many young ladies have sought after her in order to learn from her. She is planning to launch the mentorship program in October. Read our interview with the lovely Pheobe below…
What motivated and inspired you to start your own business?
I have always had an interest in fashion. While growing up I played dress-up games a lot. I also loved to modify the designs of drawings from my grandma’s sewing book and then paste them in my “pretend magazine”… which was my drawing book.
Tell us about your business.
FAMAA FASHION is a bespoke fashion outfit under FAMAA group that specializes in women’s wear. We make tailored to fit clothing and accessories for both adults and kids. We also provide other services such as; fashion styling, pageant costuming, developing content for fashion editorials, fashion accessories training and fashion consulting.
What were the first few steps you took to get your business up and running?
Well my business started as a hobby. Since I had the burning passion for fashion and could do fashion sketches, I went on to learn how to sew. I would sketch an outfit, sew it, and then take photos of models wearing my designs. The whole business thing started when I started uploading photos of my work online and I would get a request from someone who wanted to pay to get the same outfit made for them. That was how I turned my hobby into a business.
What has been the most effective way of raising awareness of your business and getting new customers?
The most effective and #1 platform that I use in creating awareness for my business has been social media – Instagram to be precise. I tell people what I do when we connect at networking events, small circle gatherings, and others I meet on a daily basis. Also I get hypes and promotions for my brand by the events I support, sponsor or partner with.
What have been your biggest challenges so far?
There is no easy road to achieving greatness. I can’t point out anyone in particular as my biggest challenge, but I can say whenever I set goals – I meet challenges along the way.
How did you overcome these challenges?
Persistence and patience are everything. I stay focused on achieving my goals and I don’t let myself get distracted by all the noise around me.
How do you keep motivated through difficult times?
I always remind myself why I started and also not knowing who I might be inspiring with my journey. That keeps me going.
How did you distinguish yourself from your competitors?
I knew I was building a unique brand that people will love to identify with in the near future, so I just let the ideas flow naturally and put in the work. I have never looked at anyone or brand as a competition, rather I focus on giving my clients a peculiar value that the rest may not offer.
What is the best advice you have received recently?
I have always been an independent minded person, that loves to earn it than ask for it. So the best advice I received is “ask for help when needed”. I have had my own share of difficulty and challenges, that is why I am always grateful for any assistance I receive, no matter how small it may seem.
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?
Just do it! Yes, people who don’t understand your vision may laugh at you but don’t let that discourage you, just stay focused. Study the field, understand the keys to good marketing and make a win!
What is your favorite business tool or resource?
That would be INSTAGRAM. I have accounts on other social media platforms, but Instagram is more engaging and information can get around the world faster. You could select your target audience and like minded individuals that you hope to connect with. I love to take photos of my work and that is just the best display avenue to get it seen.
What social media outlets do you use? List them below.
· Instagram @famaafashion
· Twitter @famaa_ng
· Facebook www.facebook.com/famaafashion
· Hashtags #fashionprenuer #fashion #women #girls #bespoke #clothing #accessories #fabrics #tailoredtofit #fittedfashion #fashionmodels #fashioneditorial #photoshoot #stylist #fashionstylist #fashionmarketer #fashionbusiness #fashionable #womenfashion #kidsfashion #bespokefashion #famaawoman #famaaangels #famaaeditorial famaafashion
What is a good article or book you have read recently?
“The Richest Man in Babylon” by George S. Clason.
What are your goals for the next few months and how are you striving to achieve them?
My goals for the next few months include: taking a course on fashion marketing, launching my free ” Do-It-Yourself ” tutorial Youtube channel, launching my editorial blog and mentoring two upcoming young ladies in my field. I have already applied to SFDGHANA for the Fashion Marketing Course. I’ll be shooting for my Do-It-Yourself Youtube channel and my editorial blog in September and my mentorship starts in October.