Today we’d like to introduce you to Samantha Allen and Michelle Lynn.
Samantha and Michelle, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
We have been best friends since high school and have always dreamed of going into business together. We were often on boats, out fishing, or just cruising and we needed clothes suited for the water. We went shopping at a large big-box retailer and learned that very few options were available specifically for women. We literally disliked every option there was available in the store. That’s when we had the idea to fill the hole in the market and create a brand just for women, and Reel Skipper was born.
How we got to where we are today is a result of a lot of trial and error and hard work. We started selling very small quantities wholesale to local retailers and learned that our products were in demand! We created a basic website, social media accounts, participated in trade shows, and other public events where we also received great feedback about our products.
Has it been a smooth road?
Quickly I think we learned very early on there seems to be no such thing as a smooth road in business. Struggles present themselves every day, and we soon realized that the day-to-day mostly consists of putting out fires! There are too many stories to mention, but there were a lot of late nights fixing issues that came out of nowhere.
A major struggle is always underestimating how much time, money, and work something takes. We started with very little capital and the need to fuel the business with more cash increases as your success does.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Reel Skipper is a marine and water sports clothing company that specializes in UPF sun protective clothing that is fashionable and comfortable for women. We are known for our trendy and feminine designs. We are set apart from other companies in the market because we focus on creating tailored, feminine garments for women by women.
Often in the marine and fishing industry, the garments for women are simply produced as an afterthought and it’s evident in the cuts and patterns. We are trying to approach an old pastime with a fresh take and change the market completely.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
South Florida, in general, is an excellent place to be involved with the marine and water sports industry. We are surrounded by fishing and boating culture and therefore the area is very inspiring. We think someone interested in starting an apparel company that focuses on sun protection or active wear should understand their market and clientele and this is what Miami and the greater area offers.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.reelskipper.com
- Phone: (844) 4-SKIPPER
- Email: customerservice@reelskipper.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reelskipper/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reelskipper
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/reelskipper
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/reelskipper/
Image Credit:
Chelsea Erwin, Perrin James
Getting in touch: VoyageMIA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
