UNTAMED THRIFT
I conceptualized and launched an online thrift store, curating weekly collections of vintage and secondhand clothing. Managing all aspects from marketing to operations, I honed entrepreneurial skills and transformed ideas into a successful venture.
Various tasks include: crafting compelling narratives, managing customer interactions, utilizing market research to tailor inventory and messaging, conducting competitor analysis, and learning how to drive organic traffic and build a community online.
HOW IT STARTED:
As an avid environmental advocate, I was frustrated with the fast fashion industry.
1.
I started exclusively shopping secondhand to reduce my environmental impact.
2.
I recognized a gap in the industry and turned my problem into a business idea: Untamed Thrift.
3.
I developed a social media strategy to set the brand apart from the competition.
4.
I applied to an entrepreneurial internship to focus on growing the brand and developing knowledge.
5.
I was one of seven students accepted into an accelerator program for student entrepreneurs.
6.
Through the 10-week lean startup curriculum-based program, I developed my idea, validated my business model, and gained skills to advance my entrepreneurial knowledge.
I LEARNED HOW TO:
CREATE A
SOCIAL MEDIA STRATEGY
Starting with defining and understanding our target audience, I crafted a social media strategy by curating content that showcased unique thrift finds, offered styling tips, and emphasized the sustainability aspects of secondhand shopping utilizing a mix of photos, videos, stories, and reels. This included creating themed Stories series like "Cop or Drop," encouraging real-time audience input, and implementing an incentive program to amplify word-of-mouth marketing and expand our customer base. I also kept our branding consistent and continuously monitored and adapted.
IDENTIFY
AUDIENCE PREFERENCES
I analyzed existing customer data, including surveys and social media interactions, to understand shopping habits, preferred styles, and motivations. I monitored trends in sustainable fashion and thrift culture, both online and offline, and used tools like Instagram Analytics to track engagement metrics, audience growth, and content effectiveness. Together, this data was used to influence inventory selection, refine my strategy, and adapt to evolving trends and preferences.
BUILD AN
ONLINE COMMUNITY
Through consistent engagement on Instagram, we shared behind-the-scenes insights, styling tips, and sneak peeks of new arrivals. Actively encouraging customer participation through user-generated content and incentives like discounts strengthened our bond with our audience. Educational content highlighting the environmental benefits of thrift shopping deepened our community's connection to sustainable fashion. These efforts fostered a loyal and supportive community, driving brand growth and inspiring conscious consumerism.
