Switching careers after 20 years is no easy business, but when you are inspired by your own daughter, work quickly becomes your passion. Ann Marie Louie, who also drew from fond memories of shopping with her own mother, started Ana Louie when she noticed her daughter’s beautiful drawings and sketches, hence the name. Since Ana was adopted from China, Ann Marie sees it her mission to give back to her country of birth and “help all little girls realize their inner strength”. This Seattle-based line of elegant dresses and separates for girls 7 to 14 was launched with the 1950’s Parisian-inspired Holiday 2011 collection. Often working until 1 a.m., Ann Marie has created a streamlined look that is both polished and youthful. Each piece looks unique and attention to detail, accents in particular, is admirable. I asked Ann Marie some questions about her design process and working as a mother-daughter team.
How did your previous work or life experience help with this new business?
I wanted to be a fashion designer since I was little and especially through High School when I joined DECA (Distribution Education Clubs of America), in which I focused on apparel. However, I ended up landing in the transportation industry. I had a twenty year career managing international import and export and domestic logistics. Many of my customers were involved in the textile/fashion industry and included Seattle giants Nordstrom and Filson. This corporate and trade background has helped me tremendously in starting Ana Louie.
When did you get the inspiration to start Ana Louie? Did you arrive there gradually or was it a spur of the moment kind of decision to start this company?
The most motivating factor was my daughter whom I named the company after. She’s quite talented and has been drawing fashion since the age of five.
Fashion and design has always been a part of my life. My mother was a seamstress and style was always important to her. And now, seeing Ana interested in clothing and witnessing her love of designing reminds me of growing up around fabric. When I was little, I used to play with my Barbie’s, using whatever material laying around, to make a her dress or skirts.
My mom and I would also shop together. She was big on helping me pick out my clothes and be sure that I was presenting myself properly, especially for special occasions. Hence, the “mother-daughter” concept behind Ana Louie. I think that this bond is really important. We are all so busy working and as the world has changed with a busy household and often times dropping our (older) kids off at the mall. But why waste this experience? Why not spend time shopping for the day and mom picking out that age appropriate dress. We are all concerned about how our kids are dressing these days – why not spend the time with mom and agree together.
Tell us a little about your daughter’s talent. I understand she inspired Ana Louie.
Well, we adopted Ana from China when she was just a baby and she’s such a joy in our lives. Ana is very creative and has always been very particular in what she wears. At times she would also comment on what I was wearing to work or out to a function. She would say “Mom that doesn’t look good together” or “Mom, I am not sure I like that.” Well, coming from a five year old I was very surprised.
Since the age of five, she has been drawing the clothes she likes: A-line dresses, pencil skirts, etc. I decided to take her to the Seattle Fashion week to get an idea on how things work in the industry. She met designers and also got to walk to the runway but this was all pre-show. Ana was in awe, loved the whole environment and it motivated her. This endeavor really bonds us. Ana and I love going to pick out gorgeous clothes, as my mother did for me, and she also loves to comment on the fabric and designs for the line.
Why did you focus on “dressy” dresses?
Dressy dresses are right up my alley especially as kid. Plus, these days I see mass produced dresses for special occasion and the quality is just not there. I want my pieces not only to be special but a dress that little girls will wear and be able to pass them down – heirlooms.
Do you see yourself focusing on this segment or do you plan to branch out to other styles?
I am planning to branch out to women’s wear, we have one women’s dress now; there will be more in future collections. Also, a bridal focus for girl’s wear. Flower girl dresses that are a sophisticated alternative to the “Fu Fu” dresses in most weddings. I think it’s great for those who would like but I want something different but still appreciate beautiful dresses.
How hard/easy was the adoption process? Do you visit China often with Ana?
The adoption process went really smooth. I would say the only thing that prevented me from going sooner was the SARS issue back then. I only went once to China. I was given a referral package with her pictures and information on her habits, health etc. I loved the adoption process and if I could do it again, I would. I have heard other people’s nightmares including my own Lawyer. I was very lucky.
What do you like and dislike about having your own business?
I love having my own business because I have total control and creativity. I am a huge promoter of the “open door policy” and my work is very collaborative with employees and colleagues. I work with many talented people and I love their vision and energy.
In the dislike column, I’d say just the the stress of having the entire responsibility. For example, my books, ordering, constant communication, etc. These are all good stresses but I just need to learn to manage my time and ensure I’m balancing family and work.
How much start-up capital did you need to start Ana Louie?
I started with my own money and have invested close to $100,000 at this point. It’s not easy and I am grateful that I’m at a point in my professional career where I can take this on, as well as grateful for the support my family gives me. My husband is CFO and very supportive.
What are your favorite business and design resources?
Fabric stores and the Garment District in Los Angeles.
Do you have a set schedule? How do you balance being an entrepreneur and a mom?
It can be a challenge. It’s important to me to pick up my children from school and spend time helping with homework. So, I’ve scheduled this time in my day. Sometimes if I have to travel or put on a show and I know it’s going to be a busy week, we talk about it; I explain to them the reasons why I need to be gone or why I am totally busy for a few days. My husband really helps out and my children understand how it all works.
Don’t get me wrong because there are days that can be hectic but having a partner who really helps and so does my mother. Some days if I am real busy I can work up to 1:00 a.m.
What are you working on now? What’s next for you?
Definitely getting a second run for my current collection. We are bringing production domestically to Los Angeles. It’s nice to keep it in the U.S. for control and it supports local economies. Soon after, I am starting my new collection for 2012/2013 including the bridal line.
If I asked your daughter what kind of a mom you are, what would she say?
She is quite shy and would say “I don’t know” and put her head into my stomach. Very cute. I would hope she would say that I am a wonderful mom who has been there for her. Sorry that’s all I can really say because she can’t even answer questions from most people. Lol. She might say “My mom cooks, she picks me up at school”.
You can buy Ana Louie designs and read more about her at analouiestudio.com.
