Getting started

It's invigorating when you find a solution to improve products we use everyday.  Every fiber of your being wants to shout it from the rooftops!  Then, some little voice in the back of your head says, "stop- what if someone steals your idea?" 

Hi- Jenn here, founder of JLD-Studios.  I'm here to tell you to stomp on that voice.  Launching a new product or business is HARD WORK.  Most of the people who hear your idea do not have the grit, determination, or conviction to steal your idea.   The tiny percentage that might try, will lack the passion that comes out of discovery.  They are not your competitor.  You are the visionary and the best person to see this idea become a thriving business.  

An idea alone is small; engaging consumers in the journey is powerful.  

Once we have that AHA moment, then the work really begins.  

Step 1- Put it on Paper

Ideas in your head tumble endlessly without result.  Start writing them down.  Sketch out how your product works.  It doesn't have to be pretty, as long as you can follow your own notes. (Sometimes I can't read mine, but the practice still helps)

Step 2- Who needs this product?

A strong demographic is paramount in the early days of a product launch.  All men, is not the type of demographic I'm talking about.  Get Specific!!! This allows you to talk to the most important customer that needs your solution in their lives.  Others will follow, don't  worry about that.  When you have a multi-million dollar business, you can make one in every color for every demographic you want.  First, you have to engage a customer that will join the journey with you.  With any luck, this is the customer that will leave the review, share the link, and generally be your cheerleader for years to come. 

Step 3- Where does the solution live?

Just like with a strong demographic, it's important to identify your niche.  This is a distinct area of the market that relates most closely to your product idea. Knowing where your product solution will impact the market will help answer design and function questions that arise during development.  It also helps with marketing and will save you a truckload in advertising costs.

Step 4- Remember why your give a F()C%

I recently had a consultant ask me this about JLD, and it was powerful.  Being rooted in your conviction will support your endeavors for the long haul.  This won't be easy.  Right now you just have an idea, maybe a prototype.  Making it, then getting people to buy it, is no easy task.  Dig deep and find your why, then operate from this knowledge every day.

Step 5- Get Started!

Simple, right? 

JLD-Studios operates in the sewn goods space, specializing in niche utility products.  This advice is not special to the apparel industry.  Any new product idea requires these steps.  We're also focused on brands that have a purpose that drives them to create and innovate.  As we said above, that's pretty important no matter what you're working on.

If you're new idea requires some sewing, reach out.  We'd be happy to help you along the journey.  But be warned- we take this stuff seriously.  Your dedication and commitment fuels ours.  We won't continuing working on a stagnant idea.  Commit to these principles and Let's Go!