Faliké are a brand who specialise in bold patterns and vibrant designs in their baby products. What is the meaning behind your company name?
Faliké is one of my middle names. It's African (Ghanaian) meaning "A rare singing bird" - one who is exceptional or unique. (Which is what I try to represent through my brand)
What gave you the push to start your own business?
I've always wanted to have my own clothing line (initially in womenswear). I've always loved Printed Textiles (I studied this at Uni). I love African prints in particular, but never found it readily available to buy in modern clothing, especially not in kids clothes! 9 times out of 10 you'd have to buy the fabric and get it made. So after having my second son I decided to give it a go and create a contemporary childrenswear and accessories brand mainly inspired by African prints.
Your fabrics are so unique! Do you source them from the same place or do you tend to have to search around for fabrics that fit the brand?
With the African print fabric sometimes I have to search around to find the right prints as there are so many to choose from. Also because African print fabrics are traditionally printed on 6 yards lengths instead of roll like commercial fabrics, if you don't buy all you need at the time there's no guarantee you'll get more of the same fabric next time. Which is what also makes them unique.... once it's gone, it's gone!
What is your current favourite product?
I think at the moment it might be the dribble bibs and teething rings.
How has your education helped you with the business and would you recommend formally studying to start a company like Faliké?
I think my education has definitely helped me with the creative side of the business. I come from an Art and design background, studied Printed Textiles at university and went on to study Pattern Cutting and Garment Construction. I don't think you necessarily need to do formal studies to do what I do. Unless you're intending on creating your own patterns then doing a course would definitely help! If you have a passion for sewing and a creative eye... that's a good start. The business side of things I'm learning as I go!
What is your best-selling product and what do you think makes it stand out from other competitors?
My best-selling products at the moment are the bibs! They are really good quality, super absorbent and of course they come in an array of different prints.
What are your essentials for a day of creating your products? Do you like to work with music or in silence? And what's your ultimate productivity snack?
Got to have some music playing in the background... I find it can help me focus and get into the groove of things! (Although sometimes I stop and have a little boogie if it's a good tune!)
I'm such a snacker... I'll snack on anything really... crisps, chocolate, grapes, crackers, peanuts... anything!
What pattern trends do you think will emerge in 2020?
To be honest I don't necessarily follow trends. I tend to use prints and colours that resonate with the brand or that I like. I saw a lot of rainbows and Scandi trends for kidswear SS19 which I think we'll continue to see SS20. I think in general we'll see more pops of colour and print clashes. Animal prints, fruit, African prints. Florals are a constant so they will continue throughout the year.
What do you think is the biggest challenge of being a working parent and what would be your golden rule for managing the two?
When I've got the hang of it I'll let you know! It's definitely a challenge and juggling act being a working parent, especially working from home! I have one son at school and the other at nursery 2 days a week so I have to work around that. I generally try to work in time slots especially if I have to get work done with my youngest around. So 30 min slots (maybe an hour if I'm lucky) whilst dipping in and out of painting, playing games or learning letters and numbers! (My husband will help out on weekends if he's not working.)
As you know, this blog is called Alt Mummy. What would be your one ‘alternative’ bit of advice to any new mum?
"Sit back and relax!"...seriously! At least for the first 3 months. As a new mum you'll be overwhelmed with either a few things or everything (depends on your support system). Forget everything else and just concentrate on YOU and baby! Trust me... this is not selfish it's a necessity! Everything else can wait... sleep/relax when baby sleeps. Also I got given this advice with my first and didn't listen... don't be afraid to say no.... especially to visitors. With my second child I think l had no visitors for the first week and then allowed grandparents to visit the second week and anyone else after that. Remember it's your child, body and space. Don't let friends, family or health professionals dictate what you should do (they're not always right). Do your own research and make your own informed decision.
La Toya has been super generous and is offering the following discount code to all readers valid until the end of the month!
Discount code: Falike15 valid until 30th Nov 2019
Shop online here: https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/Falike