Young designers team up to open boutique
MICRO, small and medium sized enterprises (MSMEs) spanning a multitude of industries constitute some of Fiji’s most unique businesses.
Among those plying their trade are local fashion designers looking to add that bit of Fijian spice and flair to garments, giving Fijimade clothing a unique identity.
Tailevu lass Atelaite Daunibau is one of those young people who has plunged into this sector. And in the spirit of growing, Ms Daunibau has teamed up with other young designers to set up a boutique in Suva.
Perhaps best known for her brand Sugarose, the Fiji Baby boutique located at Procera House, along Waimanu Rd in Suva City, will carry a new line of ready-made garments which embody a very “summer” feel.
“So mostly when we came up with Fiji Baby, we actually just wanted an all-time summer being summer all day long,” Ms Daunibau said.
“Because with Sugar Rose, it’s always the custom orders and always it’s a one-time thing, even though it’s recurring, but most of our clients, what we get from the feedback is they’ve always wanted something that was readily available.
“And in terms of custom orders, because we do bridal and custom orders for special events, those are garments that are not necessarily worn in everyday life.
“So, we thought Fiji Baby would be something from desk to dinner, anything that you can wear accessibly. So that was what we heard from our clients and then instead of making Sugar Rose readily available, we just came up with a sister line to meet that demand for our client.”
The work that went into setting up this boutique did not come without its challenges, but being surrounded by like-minded individuals gave this team the drive to continue.
Ms Daunibau said the idea to set up a shared boutique with other designer friends, came about in 2016. However, she said that was not “the right time”.
“One thing is being a designer and the second thing is running a business. So that is quite challenging. But it didn’t go through. I mean everyone has the journey and you know everyone needs that timing.
“So, when we were converting and I thought to part ways with the shop and just move to the factory and it gave me an idea like, why couldn’t I revive that idea?
“I’m glad that it’s kind of coming together. And so, when I approached my friends, in time, they were ready.
“People always want to make big changes, but I would say if you can help a neighbour, I think that’s more empowering enough. So, you know, at the end of the day, we’re all small fish in a big pond.
“It is empowering to see my friends grow and the people that are around me, because that’s all I can do.”
The team is starting from scratch and Ms Daunibau said they were hopeful the public would join in supporting the group.
“Come and support your local artists. You know, it’s so important because some of us are just starting from scratch and everybody starts somewhere, that’s for sure.
“It’s such an honour and a privilege to see people wanting to get our stuff because what better way to see your work and creative designs out there? On people and they celebrate it.”