It has been a busy few weeks at FINDRA, I say that knowing full well that it always seems to be busy at FINDRA and that no one week is really that much more or less hectic than the other! So it's not really surprising that I am a little bit late with this blog!
On the 1st of December FINDRA turned 9, and I am only now getting the opportunity to stop and reflect on what that means and put pen to paper, or hand to keyboard!
With a cup of tea in hand, I have taken some time to reflect on the incredible journey we've undertaken since I first launching FINDRA from my kitchen table in December 2014.
Over the last 9 years what began as a very clear vision has blossomed into a thriving business, and as the founder of FINDRA, I am filled with joy, pride, and a profound sense of gratitude.
The idea for FINDRA and the passion that drove me to establish my own brand was borne out of deep frustration and disappointment at the lack of available stylish, sustainable and functional outdoor clothing for women. I felt women were being let down, and underestimated, why should we put up with clothing that was effectively an afterthought of the men's range? Why should we always have to compromise and settle for clothes and products that were not fit for purpose and which did not reflect the spirit and positive attitude of women who loved being in nature, being active whilst supporting other women to do the same.
My 20 year career in Fashion and Textiles, my passion for getting outdoors and the incredible women I shared the trails with every weekend were the drivers that led me to take the ‘leap of faith’ and step into the unknown and launch FINDRA.
The road to reaching 9 has been paved with both highs and lows. From the exhilarating highs of seeing our team expand to eight dedicated individuals and the successful growth of our product line to the inevitable challenges that come with starting and growing a brand and business. Every step has been a lesson in resilience and determination. We weathered storms and celebrated victories, always propelled forward by an unyielding belief in our mission.
From day one my purpose with FINDRA was clear, I wanted more women to get outdoors and embrace the incredible benefits of being active and being in nature. And as we enter our 10th year, I am delighted that this focus has been renewed in 2023 with our returning focus on this core objective.
From day one my purpose with FINDRA was clear, I wanted more women to get outdoors and embrace the incredible benefits of being active and being in nature. And as we enter our 10th year, I am delighted that this focus has been renewed in 2023 with our returning focus on this core objective.
Returning to our core vision of empowering women has been a deliberate choice as we enter this new phase in our journey. To me FINDRA is not just about designing stylish, versatile, and sustainable outdoor clothing; it's about building a community that inspires and motivates women to embrace an active life. It's about fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment through our designs and the stories we share.
As a team, we believe FINDRA is a movement that encourages women to embrace their strength, explore the outdoors, and live life to the fullest. The sheer determination to push through challenges stems from the belief that our work makes a positive impact on the lives of those who choose FINDRA.
Through the highs and lows, one constant has been the incredible support of our Friends of FINDRA and our loyal customers.
Through the highs and lows, one constant has been the incredible support of our Friends of FINDRA and our loyal customers.
There have been so many times when I personally have felt very low, despondent and exhausted by the sheer determination and will power it takes to keep moving forward and for every occasion I have felt this way it has always been followed by a ray of hope.
These little rays come in the form of emails, reviews, Instagram and Facebook messages, or phone calls, and they always arrive just when I need them. It has happened too many times to be a coincidence, and I am convinced they are messages to lift me up, to show me the hard work is worth it and to keep going, stay focused and power on.
They mean the world to me and have such a deep positive impact.
You my dear Friends of FINDRA have been our companions on this adventure, cheering us on, providing feedback, and sharing in our triumphs. None of this would have been possible without your unwavering support, your loyalty and custom. Your trust and commitment have been the bedrock of our success. And as we celebrate this milestone, I want to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you who has been a part of this crazy journey.
As we come to the end of the calendar year it's always great to reflect, but we also look ahead with excitement for the future, filled with new opportunities, challenges, and the promise of continued growth.
2024 is our 10th year in business and we have so many positive things to share with you, from new product lines, to a new initiative we will launch early in 2024, this is a very exciting development which we believe will have a positive and lasting impact on women in the outdoors.
Whether you've been with us from the beginning or joined us along the way, your contribution is immeasurable. Here's to nine remarkable years, and to the exciting journey that lies ahead. Happy birthday, FINDRA!
Alex xx
Other Inspirational Picks..
Inspiring Quote of the Week
"The Most effective way to do it, is to do it” Amelia Earhart
Inspiring Book of the Week
This week I have been listening to Lee narrate her book ‘Other ways to Win’ and have thoroughly enjoyed it, Lee is a wonderful thought provoking storyteller, having an insight into what make her tick has been very inspiring.
Inspiring Song of the Week
If you need an uplifting tune to snap you out of your own head Gossip always deliver, positive, punchy and powerful! Love it!
Enjoy
