Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Pope.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Stephanie. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Right out of college, I moved to Miami from Maryland to pursue a graphic design job. Halfway through my time as a graphic designer, I realized that I wanted to end up working for myself in the long run. It sounded appealing to create something from the ground up and have it become a success. Since I had skills in photography and graphic design, I knew it was possible to at least get the initial process started on my own.
In spring of 2016, I had already spent about a year brainstorming different types of products I could gear my line around and eventually decided to go with women’s swimwear. I chose swimwear because bikinis were something I could relate to as a woman. I absolutely hated going bikini shopping because it made me leave the store feeling even more insecure. I was always on the lookout for the perfect swimsuit: something supportive yet sexy but also unique and it was very hard for me to find swimsuits that I was happy with that I could afford.
I get asked a lot where I came up with the name and logo. The name ENEZ comes from back in high school. My friend and I would always come up with fake names when we were out just for fun and one day I used the name Inez. I really liked the way it sounded. It was simple and sounded exotic. From then on, it was my nickname. Fast forward to college, one of my classes had an assignment to create a personal logo and instead of using my actual name, I created one for my alter-ego, Inez. When I was designing it, I came up with a version using an “e” instead of an “I” and it just stuck with me. I use the same logo to this day.
Has it been a smooth road?
It’s definitely not been a smooth road. I don’t think any business really has a smooth road but my biggest challenges are basically the most important aspect of a business and thats marketing. I am really confident with the creative side of things but when it comes to marketing and PR thats, definitely my weaker side and I’ve had to learn on my own.
Also having to learn the actual manufacturing process was challenging. I never had any experience with creating clothing so I had to learn how actually to find a manufacturer, how to create tech packs, learn the different kinds of fabrics, etc.
I have also been through a few manufacturers in order to find a good one. I’ve had to spend a lot of money and time fixing mistakes caused by the factory.
I can’t expect to be lucky enough that things are smooth sailing from the beginning and I always make sure I learn from my mistakes.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Enez Swim – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I wanted to make my own impact on the swimwear industry and create pieces that I felt weren’t on the market- pieces that support and accentuate curvy features and different body types. My main focus is creating bikinis and one-pieces that fit right, yet are comfortable enough to wear all day long in and out of the water.
I love to pick bold colors that work well with different skin tones and then add subtle details to make each one unique yet simple enough to be worn on any occasion. My goal is to make ENEZ Swim women’s go-to swimwear because of how amazing they feel wearing it.
I feel like initially my brand was known for thong bikinis because that’s the niche I started in, but since then, I have branched out to one-pieces, accessories and now coverups.
I do love the entire process of creating swimwear- coming up with an idea, sketching it and then drawing it up on the computer. It’s surreal to select the colors, shapes, and details then watch it come to life during manufacturing.
But the best part for me is the photoshoots. To watching your whole vision come to life, see your designs on models in a beautiful location and just be able to create a mood and vibe to go with your pieces is awesome. I originally started out as a photographer so for me its a creative outlet to shoot my own pieces that I design and see everything come together full circle. The absolute most incredible feeling is being out and seeing a complete stranger wearing one of your suits- that they felt your brand was awesome enough to spend their own money on.
Aside from those things, there’s nothing more rewarding and satisfying than to be completely creative, do what you love and make a living out of working for yourself. Not to say it’s easy or has been by any means, but as time goes on, I keep learning how things work and it becomes second nature.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
What I like best about Miami is the atmosphere. I could travel on vacation and I am always happy to come back here since it’s essentially a permanent vacation living here. There’s so many things to do, such a diverse culture, lots of great restaurants and the nightlife is always happening (even on the weekdays). I also love that Miami is so close to lots of great vacation spots: The Bahamas, Key West, Orlando, etc.
What I like least about Miami is the pretentious vibe from a lot of places, and I feel like its a lot harder to find good people who stay down here. A lot of friends I make are only here temporarily so its difficult to keep good people around long term.
Pricing:
- All swimsuits and swimsuit sets are under $100
Contact Info:
- Website: enezswim.com
- Email: contact@enezswimwear.com
- Instagram: @enezswim
- Facebook: Enezswimwear
- Youtube: Enez swimwear
Suggest a story: VoyageMIA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
