In this Q&A, Side Hustle spotlights Gia Mezz (28) who lives in Los Angeles. Mezz learned graphic design and began a fashion brand BE CAREFUL as a side rush. Currently, LEAU is a fully-fledged company and boasts sales of just about $10 million throughout its entire period of operation. Responses have been edited for length and clarity.
Image source: courtesy of LEAU
What was your day job or foremost occupation when you began working on the side?
When I first moved to Los Angeles, I began working at a small fast fashion company where I shipped orders and counted inventory.
When did you begin your side business and where did you discover the inspiration for it?
After many years of working in the fashion industry, I became increasingly frustrated with how common fast fashion had develop into as a result of the rise of social media.
I launched LEAU in June 2020, in the middle of the pandemic, with small, limited batches of thoughtfully designed pieces.
Image source: courtesy of LEAU
What were the first steps you took to interrupt away from the game?
In my free time and at night, I studied graphic design to start out designing my dream wardrobe. However, I could not afford to sample and mass produce on salary alone, so I began using my newly acquired design skills as a freelancer for other corporations. I shall be comfortable to assist you to design marketing materials or packaging.
Every cent of my extra income went to fund my business, covering all the things from sampling and mass production to marketing my first launch.
What were the biggest challenges you faced in building your side team and how did you overcome them?
Starting a business in the middle of a pandemic was one of the most difficult experiences of my life. Factories were closed, supply chains were disrupted, and already tight schedules became almost inconceivable to predict. I needed to always change my strategy to keep up business continuity – especially at such an early stage of the business.
In the starting, I tested all the things from different design concepts to marketing strategies and alternative ways of communicating with my audience. Some ideas failed, but when I discovered something that worked, I redoubled my efforts and focused all my energy on building that momentum.
Image source: courtesy of LEAU
How long did it take for you to realize stable monthly income? How much did the side hustle earn?
In the first month of launch, we generated $10,000 in revenue, which I immediately reinvested into the brand. From that time on, we experienced rapid growth, increasing by 50% or more in the following months. After six months, I used to be in a position to quit my full-time job, earning greater than my entire annual salary in one month.
We generated $2 million in revenue in our first 12 months and a half of operations, and when I look back at how it began, it still feels surreal.
Are you currently working on the brand full-time? What does growth and revenue seem like today?
Yes, I work on my brand full-time, although the term “full-time” probably doesn’t quite describe it. Running this business has been an ongoing commitment, but I would not trade it for anything in the world. It is a true labor of affection. Every element, decision and late night was driven by my passion and vision for what this brand represents.
We are on track to realize $10 million in lifetime sales by the end of 2025. I own 100% of the company, which was financed entirely from my very own funds, without debts or investors. We have launched every step and intend to proceed to do so in the future.
What do you enjoy most about running this business?
Turning my passion into a profession has been a dream come true, but what has been most rewarding has been encouraging more thoughtful fashion consumption.
Image source: courtesy of LEAU
Clothing can and ought to be an investment: pieces that are thoughtfully designed, well-made and timeless enough to be treasured for years to come back. My goal is to redefine the way people think about their wardrobe, inspiring them to maneuver away from the waste of fast fashion and embrace the idea of quality over quantity.
What is your advice for others trying to start a successful side hustle or their very own full-time business?
Take inspiring motion. Your thoughts can develop into things, but only if you act on them. Dreams and ideas are just the starting; what really brings them to life is the effort and energy you set into them. One of my favorite quotes is, “Done is better than perfect.” You don’t have to have all of it found out. Run with what you have and take the process. Invest in yourself, trust your vision and be able to adapt. My entire life modified in lower than a 12 months – and yours can too, if you are taking motion and imagine in yourself.
This article is a part of our ongoing Young Entrepreneur® series highlighting the stories, challenges and triumphs of being… young business owner.