style myself and have always been
drawn to fashion items that are
unique. I'm not really a follower of
fashion, in general, although I do
follow some footwear designers
and brands that I like.
Q: What have been some of the
challenges with building your
business?
Kayle: The main challenge was
learning the craft. It was not easy
and still is not easy to find the
information I need to improve
my skills and techniques. Also,
availability of materials and tools I
need is a challenge. I import most
of what I use and it’s expensive
especially for my small-scale
operation.
Q: Where does your design ideas/
inspirations come from?
Kayle: A major source of
inspiration continues to be the
work of fellow artists and artisans.
I often get ideas from jewelry,
handbags, furniture. I try to
capture a look that appeals to me
and incorporate them in the shoes
I make. Nature is also a big source
of inspiration. I also follow a lot of
footwear designers and I do get
ideas from them.
Q How do you see your brand
growing/expanding in the next five
years?
Kayle: I'd like to expand from
offering only sandals to offering
a wider range of footwear styles
for both men and women. I'm
already taking some steps in
that direction. I also really enjoy
working on designs where the
customer collaborates in the
design, so going forward I want to
focus a bit more on encouraging
that kind of thing. I believe there is
a bit of a designer in everyone and
I'd like to help those who want to
make their own footwear designs
come to life.
Q: What advice would you give to
anyone wanting to start their own
business?
Kayle: Do it. If nothing else,
you will learn a lot from the
experience.
Kayle: My products can be viewed
and purchased online. Through
the website, customers can view,
customize and purchase their
styles. Photos of styles can be
viewed on the Facebook and
Instagram pages and orders can
be made there as well. Telephone
and Whatsapp messenger are also
options using 1 (758) 487 1425.
If a person wants to see samples
in person, I have a small home
workshop where individuals can
visit by appointment. One can also
follow on Facebook and Instagram
to find out where and when the
next FETE-ish Pop-up Shop will
be.
Website: www.myfeteish.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/
myfeteish
Instagram: www.instagram.com/
feteish
Q: Where can one find your
products?
www.slyoumag.com | September-October 2019
SL-YOU | It’s All About Business 63