One of the bravest steps a person can take is to stop doing work they don’t enjoy. Mostly, I think people don’t take this risk because of financial implications, the time lost in retraining and they are scared of what is beyond the void. Will they ever be able to return if it doesn’t work out? How will they explain all this to their family, colleagues and friends?
Sarah Fewtrell, Owner of Sunkissed the Collective took this risk and her business recently celebrated its first birthday. At Femeconomy it’s important for us to share stories of female leaders in all different stages of business to share their knowledge and expertise. What I love about Sarah’s story is also how she sought out the position of League of Extraordinary Women Ambassador for the 6th largest city in Australia, the Gold Coast. A very strategic and smart move. But Sarah is one smart cookie. I used to work with Sarah and she ignited my passion for digital marketing by showing me the future. If it wasn’t for Sarah planting the seed in 2010, Femeconomy might not be around today.
What lead you to create Sunkissed the Collective?
I had been working in corporate services as a digital marketing expert for almost 9 years and would often feel like a fish out of water within the confines of the corporate office environment. It was during this time, I also became really interested in fashion and so when I left my full time job in corporate services I went and worked in retail services for a while and it was here that I developed the idea for Sunkissed the Collective.
What do you love about what you do?
I love texture. So I love being able to touch and play with all the beautiful fabrications of the clothes we sell and having the flexibility to write my calendar how I see fit. I’m not really one of those people that does well with a typical 9 – 5 office day. I like to change it up and schedule my calendar based on what works for me. I also really enjoy dealing with women on a daily basis whether that be inspiring them through our social media channels or assisting them to find that perfect piece that will make them look and feel amazing.
What has been the most significant step in Sunkissed the Collective’s journey?
We turned one year old a few months back, so this was probably a pretty significant step in our journey so far. Those who also run their own businesses, will probably understand when I say it can take a lot of energy and self belief to turn your passion into a business so achieving that first annual milestone was a big step.
What has surprised you the most since starting Sunkissed the Collective?
The complexities involved in running an online fashion business and the strength of my determination that helps me get through those tough decisions.
What do you see as the most important part of your role as Gold Coast Ambassador for League of Extraordinary Women?
The League of Extraordinary Women (LOEW) community is an incredible network of women in business supporting and sharing with each other. Having been to their annual Run the World event in Melbourne back in August I can honestly say I met and heard from so many incredible women who are doing amazing things within their businesses and this has definitely inspired me to think bigger with what I do. I believe the most important part of my role on the Gold Coast is to strengthen the connection between entrepreneurial women and women in business locally as well as to help inspire more women to make a start in creating their own business. I believe when women unite and support each other we are stronger and can achieve more which can in turn have a really positive impact within our own communities.
If there was one piece of advice you would give to a future female leader, what would it be?
Be kind, stay humble and be courageous. You have everything you need inside of you to achieve what you envision for yourself and your business. Women can change the world!
Abou
t Femeconomy
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