There is nothing quite like understanding a target market personally. In the case of South African entrepreneur, Blessing Mary Ramodisa, her inspiration came from her personal experiences of finding beautiful lingerie for curvaceous women hard to find. So, she created Hugs&Intimates, a specialist company sourcing beautiful lingerie to suit women with natural curves.
LoA found out more about this niche fashion business this month by talking to its founder Blessing Mary Ramodisa.
What does your company do?
We offer a variety of undergarments to curvy women and women who struggle to get sizes, e.g bigger bra cup sizes. We believe in body positivity- that every woman should have a bounce in their step in their every day lives, irrespective of their size. We consult with women on suitable products to source for them in order to achieve an everyday smooth silhouette in their unique shapes.
"We offer a variety of undergarments to curvy women and women who struggle to get sizes, e.g bigger bra cup sizes."
What inspired you to start your company?
As a big girl I have always struggled to get clothing sizes and underwear that looked great. In most cases I would get a mismatch of underwear and it saddened me. No matter how much money I could afford, it was never a readily available service for retailers to assist. Speaking to a few friends I noticed I wasn't alone. I then saw a gap in the market to do something to change things.
Why should anyone use your service or product?
At Hugs&Intimates we provide a specialized service. We save our clients the time it takes to go looking for beautiful lingerie that fits, avoiding the usual disappointment that follows. We can get your measurements or size and find you a variety of items to choose from. Instead of you running around, we get the service out of your way. We let you get on with your everyday business with a bounce in your step.
"We believe in body positivity- that every woman should have a bounce in their step in their everyday lives, irrespective of their size."
Tell us a little about your team
At the moment it is still a one woman's show.
Share a little about your entrepreneurial journey. And, do you come from an entrepreneurial background?
I do not have an entrepreneurial background, its really a learning curve. Challenges as well.
What are your future plans and aspirations for your company?
I would like to manufacture my products from scratch which is still a challenge to do as machinery is not readily accessible. That is still a challenge as most of my clients still struggle with cup sizes.
"At Hugs&Intimates we provide a specialized service. We save our clients the time it takes to go looking for beautiful lingerie that fits, avoiding the usual disappointment that follows."
What gives you the most satisfaction being an entrepreneur?
The social relevance that comes with it. The smile on people's faces when they see help on its way. It’s so fulfilling.
What's the biggest piece of advice you can give to other women looking to start-up?
Follow your heart and dreams. You owe it to yourself to try. Persevere.
Contact or follow Hugs&Intimates
FACEBOOK | EMAIL moukanmm@gmail.com
Why LoA loves it….
Finding a niche market as an entrepreneur is always key, and understanding that market from a personal perspective is also a competitive advantage. For Hugs and Intimates founder, Blessing Mary Ramodisa, her niche was in providing beautiful lingerie for curvaceous women, having experienced at first hand the difficulties in accessing this market. She is now on a mission to provide not only elegant lingerie, but also a personalized service that makes women look and feel good. --- Melanie Hawken, founder and editor-in-chief of Lionesses of Africa