For this month’s Business in Focus we will be interviewing Robyn from True Blue Stitches. True Blue Stitches is a family-based business in the Hawkesbury District. Robyn established this business in 2019 after deciding to leave the corporate world and follow her passion of creating quality, handmade eco-friendly bags and other goods. Robyn creates a large variety of bags, including reusable tote bags, personalised library bags, reusable gift bags, treasure bags and Santa Sacks. In addition, there are cushions, door stops, aprons and designer items from a striking range of fabrics, mainly sourced from an Australian family-owned manufacturing business. A design your own service is available for those looking for that specialised gift.
Who is your advisor?
Nathan Todd
How long have you been receiving business advice from the WSBC?
I have been involved for the last 12 months, initially face to face and then with continued training online during lockdown. My advisor has always been available for help one on one via phone or Zoom as well.
What was the main struggle you identified within your business?
Myself 100%! To clarify that statement, being older and having to get my head around the whole social media world out there. Feeling the frustration of not fully understanding how to create professional posts and learning new software programs to help with this. Sure, I could use platforms such as Facebook, however, its really getting an understanding of the best type of posts to use, the best hashtags, looking at your results from the back end. Analysing your insights and seeing what works best for your business.
What were things you implemented that had a big impact on your business moving forward?
Definitely a social media plan, training courses undertaken and also networking with people I’ve met during the general course of business. We now sell business to business by helping design and manufacture point of sale packaging.
What advice would you give to other small businesses in the same situation?
Get all the help you can from organisations like WSBC. Take part in as many training events as possible and avail yourself of their fantastic trainers.
What are your business goals for the future?
We are sampling new products to add to our range. Our most exciting news for 2021 is the development our online fabric store which is currently under development.
Final words:
Above all, Never give up!