There was definitely "magic in the air" when the two:peas arrived in New York City for the debut of our 2009 Dancing Star Collection. Not even delayed/canceled flights and lost luggage could dampen this pea's spirits. I was determined to make my mark on my favorite city, even if I had to do it in yesterday's outfit.
We arrived in the city that never sleeps with an arranged meeting at an interested Showroom, and PR firm ... Not too shabby for an emerging company. The people that we met were bright, forthcoming and very interested in us, our product and what we could lend to the ever-evolving world of trends and statements. We left the meetings feeling overwhelmed (in a good way) with visions of a 3-day trunk show at Henri Bendel's dancing in our heads. Okay ... regroup and refocus! It was time to get serious, and prepare ourselves for the reason we were in NYC, our debut at ENK's Accessorie Circuit.
The next 3 days were possibly the most important, lesson-crammed and enjoyable days to date. Everyone involved in putting this show together from the union-workers all the way to the show's producer (Eleni), were some of the best people I have ever been fortunate enough to work with. Thanks to the Javits Center, GES and ENK!!
The vendors that we were fortunate enough to be surrounded by were amazing as well. So willing to share their experiences with us, what they have gone through in their business' history, and how to best utilize our time at the show. We networked with the best of the best, and learned so much in the process not only about ourselves, but about this industry.
So how did we fair? We managed to go International with our FIRST SALE to a man in Saudi Arabia with 4 boutiques, I met my idol (Alexis Bittar) who was warm, charming and humble ... and lastly, I realized that I am stronger and more resilient than even I thought I was. It can only Grow UP from here!
