Terry Leon is known for her motivation, ambition and her own personal flare of fashion. SAVI STYLE is an extension of who she is, what she wishes to put forth, and the vision of positive representation to all women. This is her new adventure in the world of entrepreneurship and she’s ready to take it on.
What motivated and inspired you to start your own business?
I’ve always wanted to invent a product that would benefit women. The true inspiration came when I noticed subconsciously we have all become very dependent of our hair ties. We all love our luscious long hair but real life gets in the way of that dream. This is the moment I knew I could design something stylish and functional for women.
Tell us about your business.
We are a fashionable active wear accessory company. We want to provide innovative products and easy solutions for the modern woman.
Are you currently running any promos/contests/giveaways that you would like our readers to know about?
We are currently live on Kickstarter until May 31st. Kickstarter provides a platform that allows investors to help fund our SAVI SLEEK campaign which gives them access to the product first at a discounted price.
List awards/certifications/accomplishments.
My work experience and education (fun fact) is in Biology and the medical field. I’m a scientist turned entrepreneur. So, at this point my biggest accomplishment has been being a part of a research program for Alzheimer’s and Autism at the Western University of Health Sciences.
Where is your business based?
Costa Mesa, CA (Orange County).
What were the first few steps you took to get your business up and running?
- The first step was searching on Google to see if it already existed.
- Second, I was given a book to help pave the way of what are the proper steps to start a new company (book recommendation below).
- Lastly, with the moral support and expertise of those around me, I slowly started building SAVI STYLE.
What has been the most effective way of raising awareness of your business and getting new customers?
I took the time to really define who the SAVI Woman is and how to connect with them. Social media, amazon, ebay and any online outlet were where all my efforts were put forth. I took the time to create a social media account that women would like to follow due to its imagery or its relatable information.
What have been your biggest challenges so far?
My biggest challenges so far are has been my limited experience on SEO, Coding, and Photoshop, in short technology, technology, and more technology.
How did you overcome these challenges?
I went back to school the new millennial way, online. I watched countless hours of YouTube tutorials (you can’t beat free!) and asked friends who majored in computer science to teach me quick crash courses. Once I accomplished the basics, I moved on to paying for courses in my local community.
How do you keep motivated through difficult times?
I truly believe in my product and everything it has to offer. I know it provides a convenience and goes a long way in our very busy lives. We are a new form of women who don’t stop or let anything slow us down when it comes to accomplishing our goals. I love that SAVI SLEEK is there along for the ride.
How do you distinguish yourself from your competitors?
SAVI SLEEK is for casual settings, everyday wear to active wear, so, we are different because we provide the comfort, water and sweat proof protection every women needs during her day. My competitors target more of the fashionista (high end fashion) women. Their product goes lovely for a formal occasion.
What is the best advice you have received recently?
You will have doubts, you will want to quit, and it doesn’t get easier any time soon. However, the reward of owning something that is truly yours from beginning to end is worth the sacrifice time and time again. It is then you will realize if given the choice, you would go through it all over again.
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?
Define who you are, this is where you will pull all your strength from. It will be the voice for your brand, product and customer. It will provide you the strength to not be swayed and believe in yourself because there will be many times, days and moments no one else will.
What is your favorite business tool or resource?
Photoshop! It allows you to create beautiful assets that look professional in all your marketing. Content is king especially when attached to digital marketing (social media is key for free marketing).
What is a good article or book you have read recently?
There were a few books I used as guides and inspiration while creating SAVI STYLE.
- Sell your ideas with or without a PATENT
- The Lean Start Up
- #girlboss
What are you currently learning about for your business or looking for help with?
I’m still learning more every day about SEO, digital marketing, and networking in my community.
What are your goals for the next few months and how are you striving to achieve them?
After my Kickstarter campaign has been funded. I will continue to promote, advertise, and sell in local studios, boutiques, and fitness events. We hope our Kickstarter is highly successful and provides us the positive momentum to continue our next steps this year.
What social media outlets do you use? List them below.
Instagram @thesavistyle
Twitter @thesavistyle
Facebook @thesavistyle
Website www.savistyle.com