Q&A with Stylist and Entrepreneur, Bernadette Payne

I love to interview female entrepreneurs from around the world as every journey is different. And today's interview is with leading Aussie stylist, fashion blogger, and entrepreneur, Bernadette Payne of That's My Style, a personal styling company. Here's what she had to say about her entrepreneurial journey. 

1). Please tell our readers about your professional background. 

My background is a solid 20 years in the fashion industry as a buyer and overseeing the manufacturing of clothing for large Australian retailers. By my mid 20’s, I was in a management position and was juggling overseas travel, predicting fashion trends, sourcing fabrics, running a production team, negotiating with China factories, and producing high-quality budget level clothing in short lead times.

I was very driven but under immense pressure to perform and in turn, constantly stressed. I left after having my third child and knowing that I just couldn’t give the energy to the job anymore. I wanted to focus on my family but share my background knowledge – That’s My Style was now born.

2). Why did you start your business? 

My inspiration behind ‘That’s My Style’ is that I truly believe everyone has the right to know how to dress to feel like the best version of themselves.

I want people to understand the power of clothing and how it can make them feel great. Dressing confidently and understanding what works can change people’s perception of themselves. With this comes acceptance and a new-found confidence that impacts their personal and professional lives. I feel honored to witness their journeys.

3). What market does your business serve? 

My market is mainly women aged 35-65. They all engage my services for a similar outcome but they each have their own story. No matter where they are in life, I can help them feel more confident about their wardrobe choices. Learning what to wear and what to avoid creates empowerment and a new found love of getting dressed every day. Confidence starts from within and this is where we start.

4). What's the largest challenge you've encountered as a business owner? 

The styling and marketing of my business come naturally and is where I want my energy to go. The challenges are behind the scenes admin and getting the most out of the time that I have.

My husband also runs a business, so it’s a constant juggle. We know the value of family time and embrace it as much as we can.

5). What's your best piece of business advice? 

Believe in what you do. Be on your own journey and don't worry about what others are doing. Believe in your own vision and what you can offer that no one else can. And never stop learning and growing.

6). How do you like to relax? 

Good question – I don’t have a lot of me-time, so soaking in a bath, with a good book and a candle burning is very relaxing (as long as the kids are in bed) and I always feel energized and grateful for a dinner catch up and drinks with my gorgeous friends.

7). Connect with Bernadette on: 

That's My Style

Facebook.com

Instagram.com