Full name?: Sara Kate Steadman
Position / Job title?: Co-Owner & Product Development Director, Frill Clothing
1. When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
It pretty much changed everyday, but it always involved being a boss or a leader of some sort. I’ve always know I wanted to be in charge of something.
2. Fast-forward several years/decades. How did you land (or create) your current position?
I was stuck in an internship that always promised, “new opportunities and room for growth,” but two years later, I found myself in the same position, working 60-hour weeks and making hardly any money. I realized it was time for a change, so I quite and started out on my own!
3. Did you have to take on internships to get there? How important in general, do you think, are internships?
Although at times it was dreadful, my internship really was crucial. Since I worked for a small company, I was able to learn all aspects of the field and found myself doing different things everyday. I highly recommend internships, especially if you aren’t sure whether the field is really something in which you are interested.
4. Tell us what a typical work day looks like for you. What is your job REALLY like, both the glamorous and not-so-glamorous parts?
The great majority of the time, being a clothing designer and a production manager, is not all that glamorous. Most of my days are spent ordering materials, coordinating production facilities and prioritizing orders. The best days, though, where I get to design, find new fabrics and style shots totally make it worth it!
5. What is the biggest career mistake you’ve ever made?
Over committing. You have to learn not say “yes” to everyone. Because when you only say “yes,” you will quickly bite off more than you can chew and run yourself into the ground. Saying “no” is a respectable answer.
6. What is the single most important piece of advice you would give to other career-minded women?
Start with a plan and know your market extremely well!
7. Let’s talk about work/life balance. What does that mean to you? Is it important?
*Sigh* this is something that I definitely still struggle with. When you love what you do, it can be extremely hard to step away. I have found that having a designated “work area” helps dramatically. It doesn’t have to be a huge office – it can be as simple as a desk, or your favorite chair – but being able to walk away at the end of the really helps.
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