Today we’d like to introduce you to Maggie Raman.
Hi Maggie, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’m currently pursuing a master’s degree in Mass Communication at Georgia State while managing my Etsy shop. Growing up, I’ve always been passionate about all things creative from painting, to fashion, sewing, and more.
While attending Florida State, gameday fashion was always an exciting opportunity to showcase your style and stand out. The issue though, was that there weren’t many unique outfit options for game day.
One summer, I decided to solve this problem by making my own signature piece- a painted denim jacket featuring the school logo and the phrase “bleed garnet.” This jacket proved to be a hit! Many people began asking me about it and if I’d make them one as well.
Fast-forward to graduating school, I then decided to take the initiative to create my custom apparel business, Marked by Maggie. I now have created over 45 jackets/sweatshirts which I sell through my Etsy shop. I’m driven by the opportunity to create unique & long-lasting pieces that people will feel confident wearing.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
Creating a business from scratch is never a smooth road. I didn’t have much money to start the business, but I took the leap and bought over 100 jackets and hoped they would sell. I underwent trials and error of finding the best quality paint, painting techniques to ensure perfection, and stocking up jackets that are well-liked and compatible with the process. While starting the business, I was also applying to graduate school and trying to find a balance with work, school, and Marked by Maggie. Luckily, I’ve overcome the obstacles thrown my way and my business has been stronger because of them!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I currently sell custom denim jackets, white hoodies, baseball hats, and kids’ denim jackets. My favorite and best-selling are custom college jackets, painted entirely by hand, and designed by or with the customer. While most people order knowing exactly how they want their jacket to look, I also enjoy helping others create a design they love. I truly love designing, painting, and helping others, so it really doesn’t feel like work to me. What sets Marked by Maggie apart from other fashion companies is my passion for bringing people’s visions to life in the form of something that is beautiful, functional, long-lasting, and most importantly- comfortable.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
Luck has played a slight role in my business, but I truly wouldn’t be where I am now without hard work, the support of friends and family, and my passion for painting. I’m not sure if it was luck or good timing that my business was started during lock down of the pandemic, because if it hadn’t been for that, I may not have recognized and seized the opportunity.
Pricing:
- Custom Denim Jacket: $130.00
- Custom Kid’s Jacket: $65.00
- Custom White Hoodie: $105.00
- Custom Baseball Hat: $22
Contact Info:
- Email: maggieraman742@gmail.com
- Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/MARKEDbyMAGGIE
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marked_by_maggie_/
Image Credits
Maggie Raman
