Vol.088 Rent or Buy? She Made Women’s Wardrobes More Circular (Floriane, Ann)

New listeners and old listeners welcome back to my podcast逆行人生 Find My Way I'm your host An Lin This year while studying abroad in Germany I started a new series called Startup Woman where I interviewed female founders who run their own business in Europe This is。

New listeners and old listeners welcome back to my podcast逆行人生 Find My Way I'm your host An Lin This year while studying abroad in Germany I started a new series called Startup Woman where I interviewed female founders who run their own business in Europe This is。

the second episode.

the second episode.

Today, I interviewed a truly powerful female solo entrepreneur, Flohean.

Today, I interviewed a truly powerful female solo entrepreneur, Flohean.

Five years ago, she founded co-dressing.

Five years ago, she founded co-dressing.

As an expert who couldn't even speak German at that time.

As an expert who couldn't even speak German at that time.

She still decided to jump into this entrepreneurial journey.

She still decided to jump into this entrepreneurial journey.

Five years later, she has built a loyal customer base, and both her online platform and physical store are running successfully.

Five years later, she has built a loyal customer base, and both her online platform and physical store are running successfully.

Some of her clients and friends even believe called dressing is a business with at least 10 employees behind it.

Some of her clients and friends even believe called dressing is a business with at least 10 employees behind it.

However, almost all the work is actually done by Follain herself.

However, almost all the work is actually done by Follain herself.

And now in 2026, she is facing a new challenge, the one that may determine the future of co dressing.

And now in 2026, she is facing a new challenge, the one that may determine the future of co dressing.

In this episode, we talk about how to start a business in Germany as an expert.

In this episode, we talk about how to start a business in Germany as an expert.

The challenges of running a one person business.

The challenges of running a one person business.

For whom is most authentic reflections and advice for female entrepreneurs who want to start or have just started their own business.

For whom is most authentic reflections and advice for female entrepreneurs who want to start or have just started their own business.

Now grab a cup of coffee or tea, and let's devin.

Now grab a cup of coffee or tea, and let's devin.

So welcome, Lauren.

So welcome, Lauren.

Can you briefly introduce yourself to our audience?

Can you briefly introduce yourself to our audience?

Yeah, sure.

Yeah, sure.

uh, So, I'm I'm from Hainan, I'm 32 now, freshly.

uh, So, I'm I'm from Hainan, I'm 32 now, freshly.

And uh I live in Berlin for 10 years now.

And uh I live in Berlin for 10 years now.

I I moved here uh at the beginning for my my studies.

I I moved here uh at the beginning for my my studies.

I did I did my master degree here in Berlin, as the hotel management chef on rest.

I did I did my master degree here in Berlin, as the hotel management chef on rest.

Once, and uh oh sorry, I start to speak in German.

Once, and uh oh sorry, I start to speak in German.

And it was it was a different degree.

And it was it was a different degree.

uh,So one year here, one here in the in China, in Chengdu.

uh,So one year here, one here in the in China, in Chengdu.

And now, uh, I have a business called co-dressing.

And now, uh, I have a business called co-dressing.

uh, uh, Here you can rent or buy designer clothes and accessories, and you can also rent out or sell your own items.

uh, uh, Here you can rent or buy designer clothes and accessories, and you can also rent out or sell your own items.

So, it's like 100 percent uh your QR.

So, it's like 100 percent uh your QR.

Yeah, the first time when I came across this idea called dressing, you can rent your clothes online or in this store, like physical store.

Yeah, the first time when I came across this idea called dressing, you can rent your clothes online or in this store, like physical store.

It re- reminded me of A very famous Chinese platform called 123, uh, several years ago, and I was used to be their member.

It re- reminded me of A very famous Chinese platform called 123, uh, several years ago, and I was used to be their member.

Your idea for this business, where did this idea come from in the very Beginning.

Your idea for this business, where did this idea come from in the very Beginning.

uh, Because like during my master degree, we were having some uh courses about uh sustainability in business, and we had to write like uh papers uh for the year.

uh, Because like during my master degree, we were having some uh courses about uh sustainability in business, and we had to write like uh papers uh for the year.

About a specific topic, always with different angles, and I picked the sharing economy and the fashion industry. And my parents are entrepreneurs themselves.

About a specific topic, always with different angles, and I picked the sharing economy and the fashion industry. And my parents are entrepreneurs themselves.

And they started all by themselves, and and now they sold their company like recently, but they reached like 50 employees, and they were both doing uh everything, just the two of them.

And they started all by themselves, and and now they sold their company like recently, but they reached like 50 employees, and they were both doing uh everything, just the two of them.

So, I clearly saw also what's entrepreneurship is, uh, the good sides, the bad sides, how a company starts from nothing to kind of reach the top.

So, I clearly saw also what's entrepreneurship is, uh, the good sides, the bad sides, how a company starts from nothing to kind of reach the top.

So, I had this entrepreneurship vibe.

So, I had this entrepreneurship vibe.

I wrote my my papers about the sharing economy, fashion industry.

I wrote my my papers about the sharing economy, fashion industry.

And then I had to write my master thesis, and I was like, OK, I'm gonna keep working on that.

And then I had to write my master thesis, and I was like, OK, I'm gonna keep working on that.

And so, that's a bit how this idea uh came.

And so, that's a bit how this idea uh came.

um, I mean it was already a few years ago.

um, I mean it was already a few years ago.

You started to have some rental services on the market, but like not so many.

You started to have some rental services on the market, but like not so many.

Uh huh.

Uh huh.

And I really wanted to have like this uh multi channel, so to be offline and online.

And I really wanted to have like this uh multi channel, so to be offline and online.

And to offer, not to be fully focus just on renters, like a lot of my, of all the competitors can do, but to really have this um different approach of fashion, which is more like a OK.

And to offer, not to be fully focus just on renters, like a lot of my, of all the competitors can do, but to really have this um different approach of fashion, which is more like a OK.

you pay for the use you are gonna do.

you pay for the use you are gonna do.

uh, So, like basically, if you want to buy something, because you think you are gonna wear it a lot, buy it.

uh, So, like basically, if you want to buy something, because you think you are gonna wear it a lot, buy it.

If you want to rent something, because it's a statement piece that you want to have like for just a a couple of days, rent it.

If you want to rent something, because it's a statement piece that you want to have like for just a a couple of days, rent it.

So that's why here at couture dressing, you have like those different options that you can rent for like a short period.

So that's why here at couture dressing, you have like those different options that you can rent for like a short period.

So, very good when you have an event, for example, like a wedding or what or whatever.

So, very good when you have an event, for example, like a wedding or what or whatever.

So, you have a price for like four days, eight days, um, so one week, two weeks, a month for each item.

So, you have a price for like four days, eight days, um, so one week, two weeks, a month for each item.

And you have also like the membership uh system so where you can have a box that you receive every month at home.

And you have also like the membership uh system so where you can have a box that you receive every month at home.

um, You can change whenever you want, you can buy whenever you want, and of course, the longer you keep the items, the cheaper it is to buy.

um, You can change whenever you want, you can buy whenever you want, and of course, the longer you keep the items, the cheaper it is to buy.

And uh and the option to buy directly.

And uh and the option to buy directly.

And I also wanted to give the option to to customers themselves to rent out or sell their own items as well.

And I also wanted to give the option to to customers themselves to rent out or sell their own items as well.

So yeah, right now there is the shop here in Berlin.

So yeah, right now there is the shop here in Berlin.

uh, And there is also the website, and I ship within the European Union for for the rental.

uh, And there is also the website, and I ship within the European Union for for the rental.

I know part of them maybe from your purchasing, part of them maybe some from some designers, um, partnerships.

I know part of them maybe from your purchasing, part of them maybe some from some designers, um, partnerships.

And I also notice on your website there are an option that your customers could also rent out their clothes and swamp their wardrobe.

And I also notice on your website there are an option that your customers could also rent out their clothes and swamp their wardrobe.

So, how about that part of business?

So, how about that part of business?

Yeah.

Yeah.

Yeah.

Yeah.

uh, So yeah, here for the inventory, you have items from brands, uh, but, as you said partnerships with brands.

uh, So yeah, here for the inventory, you have items from brands, uh, but, as you said partnerships with brands.

uh, Could be like medium size brands, but could be also like designers that are doing upcycling.

uh, Could be like medium size brands, but could be also like designers that are doing upcycling.

uh.

uh.

Like uh so, then it's like fully circular, cause you you rent upcycled stuff, and you sell them second hand.

Like uh so, then it's like fully circular, cause you you rent upcycled stuff, and you sell them second hand.

um, And they are also items from people, and for the items from clients, like right now, I have around 500 uhClient's owners.

um, And they are also items from people, and for the items from clients, like right now, I have around 500 uhClient's owners.

um, For those clients, I always offer three options.

um, For those clients, I always offer three options.

So, when they they bring items here at the shop, or they they make a a request online.

So, when they they bring items here at the shop, or they they make a a request online.

Then uh they get to quote with like either the consignment system.

Then uh they get to quote with like either the consignment system.

So then when there is a transaction rental or sales, they get money.

So then when there is a transaction rental or sales, they get money.

Or the co-dressing can buy directly sometimes their items.

Or the co-dressing can buy directly sometimes their items.

Or they can get to gift cards uh from uh from clothes racing in exchange of their items so kind of swap swap model.

Or they can get to gift cards uh from uh from clothes racing in exchange of their items so kind of swap swap model.

uh, And of course they get more money with the commission system.

uh, And of course they get more money with the commission system.

Design if forressing bias directly, because uh it's more risk for the company.

Design if forressing bias directly, because uh it's more risk for the company.

um, So yeah, they have those three options, and they can pick what what they want.

um, So yeah, they have those three options, and they can pick what what they want.

Have you experienced this similar model on the other platform before, or it's just came from your idea?

Have you experienced this similar model on the other platform before, or it's just came from your idea?

Yeah, actually, it's a it's something that's uh at the beginning, a very tough of doing like to be a customer from the competitors, to see what they do and And at the end, I haven't done it.

Yeah, actually, it's a it's something that's uh at the beginning, a very tough of doing like to be a customer from the competitors, to see what they do and And at the end, I haven't done it.

I really wanted to do it with Renda Runway.

I really wanted to do it with Renda Runway.

hmm.

hmm.

Uh, because Renda Runway is the biggest uh on the market.

Uh, because Renda Runway is the biggest uh on the market.

And when I look at my competitors, I want to look at the best, because I want the best for my customers.

And when I look at my competitors, I want to look at the best, because I want the best for my customers.

uh huh.

uh huh.

As so, render runway is really the the best one.

As so, render runway is really the the best one.

The the issue is that the ship only uh in in the US, because it's a it's a US company.

The the issue is that the ship only uh in in the US, because it's a it's a US company.

So I I didn't I couldn't do it.

So I I didn't I couldn't do it.

And uh and the other competitors, I had the idea to do it, but actually, I realize now that's I focused mainly on my customer, like what do they want?

And uh and the other competitors, I had the idea to do it, but actually, I realize now that's I focused mainly on my customer, like what do they want?

And how can I uh answer their needs?

And how can I uh answer their needs?

uh, Because like all the competitors like uh uh we all reply to to similar needs.

uh, Because like all the competitors like uh uh we all reply to to similar needs.

But actually, there are some differences from one uh company to another, even if on the paper we have the same service.

But actually, there are some differences from one uh company to another, even if on the paper we have the same service.

And so, I decided to really again focus on on my customers, and uh and that's how my product is evolving, my service is evolving like every day.

And so, I decided to really again focus on on my customers, and uh and that's how my product is evolving, my service is evolving like every day.

I'm still changing stuff right now, uh that we are talking.

I'm still changing stuff right now, uh that we are talking.

And they are like around 4,000 items.

And they are like around 4,000 items.

uh, But right now, I'm, I reach the like fourth versions of the the fourth version of labels. uh, Because I made them evolved.

uh, But right now, I'm, I reach the like fourth versions of the the fourth version of labels. uh, Because I made them evolved.

Based on what I hear uh at the shop, like at the beginning, it was written for example price per day and retail price on each label.

Based on what I hear uh at the shop, like at the beginning, it was written for example price per day and retail price on each label.

And customers are like price per day.

And customers are like price per day.

What does it mean?

What does it mean?

Does it mean that if it's 20 Euros, if I rented for 10 days, it's like 20 multiply by 10, and it's clearly not this.

Does it mean that if it's 20 Euros, if I rented for 10 days, it's like 20 multiply by 10, and it's clearly not this.

So then I was like, OK, no, I need to put a kind of table on the on the label with like The price for four days, the price for a week, for two weeks.

So then I was like, OK, no, I need to put a kind of table on the on the label with like The price for four days, the price for a week, for two weeks.

So then they don't have so many questions.

So then they don't have so many questions.

So you make your business evolve a lot uh based on the feedback you get, and that's how I build my business more than looking at what the competitor does.

So you make your business evolve a lot uh based on the feedback you get, and that's how I build my business more than looking at what the competitor does.

Of course, it's always good to know uh your market, to know your competitors and But don't f-, in my opinion, don't focus too much on that.

Of course, it's always good to know uh your market, to know your competitors and But don't f-, in my opinion, don't focus too much on that.

Focus on your clients and the one that are paying.

Focus on your clients and the one that are paying.

Oh yeah.

Oh yeah.

uh, And that's the most important.

uh, And that's the most important.

Yeah.

Yeah.

And there is a saying learning by doing, uh, and sometimes you are also learning from some mistakes.

And there is a saying learning by doing, uh, and sometimes you are also learning from some mistakes.

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

And I can, hmm, even more, yeah.

And I can, hmm, even more, yeah.

I can imagine as a a newbie in this industry, there must be a lot of challenges at the very early stage.

I can imagine as a a newbie in this industry, there must be a lot of challenges at the very early stage.

So looking back, what's the biggest challenge you have encountered?

So looking back, what's the biggest challenge you have encountered?

Yeah, so I did a lot of mistakes.

Yeah, so I did a lot of mistakes.

I'm also very happy kind of, I made those those mistakes, because then uh you know you know much more.

I'm also very happy kind of, I made those those mistakes, because then uh you know you know much more.

uh, About how to go to the next the next step.

uh, About how to go to the next the next step.

So first, I would say at the beginning, when I started, uh, I started in 2021.

So first, I would say at the beginning, when I started, uh, I started in 2021.

And um the covid was ending kind of.

And um the covid was ending kind of.

So I started to uh look for a for a store.

So I started to uh look for a for a store.

This is maybe the only positive point of covid.

This is maybe the only positive point of covid.

I got this super nice location here in the Yaki Sheher, it's like a touristy uh area in Berlin, very nice.

I got this super nice location here in the Yaki Sheher, it's like a touristy uh area in Berlin, very nice.

Yeah.

Yeah.

Also very central.

Also very central.

So for customers uh that are a bit indifferent part of Berlin, it's easy to reach.

So for customers uh that are a bit indifferent part of Berlin, it's easy to reach.

But I didn't realize that actually COVID was not fully over.

But I didn't realize that actually COVID was not fully over.

I remember I was about to open, and Angela Merkel talked again.

I remember I was about to open, and Angela Merkel talked again.

uh, Cause it was her at the time, and and she was like, OK, actually we are gonna shut down everything again.

uh, Cause it was her at the time, and and she was like, OK, actually we are gonna shut down everything again.

So I didn't open my shop.

So I didn't open my shop.

I was supposed to open in the um end of Remember beginning of December, I remember, and at the end I opened only in April the year after.

I was supposed to open in the um end of Remember beginning of December, I remember, and at the end I opened only in April the year after.

uh.

uh.

So, it was like a few months paying a rent, uh.

So, it was like a few months paying a rent, uh.

without uhBeing able to run your business, but for me there was no year uh minus one kind of, so no help, so I was putting my saving in this.

without uhBeing able to run your business, but for me there was no year uh minus one kind of, so no help, so I was putting my saving in this.

So, it was like the the first big challenge even before starting.

So, it was like the the first big challenge even before starting.

Of course, after I had my clients, everything started to be uh back to normal.

Of course, after I had my clients, everything started to be uh back to normal.

uh, But now the challenge that I'm facing now that's okay.

uh, But now the challenge that I'm facing now that's okay.

uh, The restriction, it's working, it's running. um, Is that I'm a solo founder.

uh, The restriction, it's working, it's running. um, Is that I'm a solo founder.

And uh and it has its limits right now.

And uh and it has its limits right now.

I struggle to do everything by myself in terms of logistics, like having a service like corracing.

I struggle to do everything by myself in terms of logistics, like having a service like corracing.

Is a lot of logistics.

Is a lot of logistics.

When you bring flexibility to the customer, it's it means that it's gonna be a nightmare for you to deal with it.

When you bring flexibility to the customer, it's it means that it's gonna be a nightmare for you to deal with it.

And that's basically what I sell, flexibility.

And that's basically what I sell, flexibility.

So, so, this is is becoming challenging to be alone, and I feel actually, even if now there is a turnover, my company is still in danger kind of.

So, so, this is is becoming challenging to be alone, and I feel actually, even if now there is a turnover, my company is still in danger kind of.

I'm gonna eat a wall, if uh if I keep going like that, because I cannot do everything on my own.

I'm gonna eat a wall, if uh if I keep going like that, because I cannot do everything on my own.

Yeah.

Yeah.

And there is also this like a financial uh issue as well.

And there is also this like a financial uh issue as well.

So, it's like uh human resources and financial resources that are like a bit limited when you are a solo founder that is auto financing financing because like right now I'm also at this step that okay there is turnover, but to hire it's also risky. And you also need to keep investing.

So, it's like uh human resources and financial resources that are like a bit limited when you are a solo founder that is auto financing financing because like right now I'm also at this step that okay there is turnover, but to hire it's also risky. And you also need to keep investing.

also like uh in the like in your website to to improve it always, in the in your inventory, in in a lot of stuff.

also like uh in the like in your website to to improve it always, in the in your inventory, in in a lot of stuff.

So, now I have another challenge, uh, that is kind of good, hmm.

So, now I have another challenge, uh, that is kind of good, hmm.

But still, you always have your company a bit kind of in danger, and I think for every business, yeah.

But still, you always have your company a bit kind of in danger, and I think for every business, yeah.

Even big big big ones, uh, they have those steps uh like that.

Even big big big ones, uh, they have those steps uh like that.

I heard that you've invested your own savings to like rent this store at the very beginning.

I heard that you've invested your own savings to like rent this store at the very beginning.

So, is that the only capital?

So, is that the only capital?

I I had the chance to have a bit of saving, so that's what I used to to develop my business.

I I had the chance to have a bit of saving, so that's what I used to to develop my business.

But now, for example, I used like all, I put all my savings in this business model.

But now, for example, I used like all, I put all my savings in this business model.

And now, I don't have any saving.

And now, I don't have any saving.

I I was careful, but you are even more careful about every sense you are you are using like, is it worthy to develop my business, to to spend this amount in this.

I I was careful, but you are even more careful about every sense you are you are using like, is it worthy to develop my business, to to spend this amount in this.

um, So, I'm kind of bootstraping, as from since the beginning, uh, by auto financing everything.

um, So, I'm kind of bootstraping, as from since the beginning, uh, by auto financing everything.

I I took a risk, and I want I want to return on this.

I I took a risk, and I want I want to return on this.

That's not the thing that I would be super sad about, if tomorrow I stop.

That's not the thing that I would be super sad about, if tomorrow I stop.

Money is just money at the end of the day.

Money is just money at the end of the day.

Money comes in, money comes out.

Money comes in, money comes out.

You can also lose money, I don't know, because of a a fir- a fire, and you didn't have the proper insurance or whatever, like It's uh you can lose money for a lot of different reasons.

You can also lose money, I don't know, because of a a fir- a fire, and you didn't have the proper insurance or whatever, like It's uh you can lose money for a lot of different reasons.

That's not the issue, and I would actually be um super grateful about the experience I got hmm with this um with um building core dressing.

That's not the issue, and I would actually be um super grateful about the experience I got hmm with this um with um building core dressing.

I have it since like 4 5 years more or less.

I have it since like 4 5 years more or less.

And I feel I have the the experience of someone that that worked maybe 30 years in the same company, being at the same position.

And I feel I have the the experience of someone that that worked maybe 30 years in the same company, being at the same position.

When you are a solo founder,uh, That's kind of your case as well.

When you are a solo founder,uh, That's kind of your case as well.

You know that you have to do like everything on your own, uh, especially at the beginning.

You know that you have to do like everything on your own, uh, especially at the beginning.

uh, Like you have to you have to deal with uh with uh accounting, with uh I mean, in my case.

uh, Like you have to you have to deal with uh with uh accounting, with uh I mean, in my case.

Preparing orders, uh, dealing dealing with the customer uh customer service.

Preparing orders, uh, dealing dealing with the customer uh customer service.

uh, I my website is like a prebuilt website, but I do everything like maintenance, so the website, you have to be an expert in social mar- in social media, and so you shouldn't uh under value the experience.

uh, I my website is like a prebuilt website, but I do everything like maintenance, so the website, you have to be an expert in social mar- in social media, and so you shouldn't uh under value the experience.

That it's bringing on your on your resume afterwards.

That it's bringing on your on your resume afterwards.

Like uh by building this busi- this business, I mean it's a small business, but still uh I got the German TV that came twice in the shop. Course, singing has been uh so broadcasted.

Like uh by building this busi- this business, I mean it's a small business, but still uh I got the German TV that came twice in the shop. Course, singing has been uh so broadcasted.

um, Netflix contacting me to work with me, like, you're like, I'm so small, and like all those nice things are happening.

um, Netflix contacting me to work with me, like, you're like, I'm so small, and like all those nice things are happening.

It's uh, it's, it feels like super nice, also for For your self esteem, like you did it on your own.

It's uh, it's, it feels like super nice, also for For your self esteem, like you did it on your own.

Like uh it's you that brought all those stuff uh to you, and especially in my case being expect.

Like uh it's you that brought all those stuff uh to you, and especially in my case being expect.

um, Like, being a French person here in Germany, being on the national TV at the beginning when I started also, I didn't mention in the challenges, but I didn't really speak German.

um, Like, being a French person here in Germany, being on the national TV at the beginning when I started also, I didn't mention in the challenges, but I didn't really speak German.

uh, It's quite an achievement to uh four, five years later to be on TV and speaking German about your business.

uh, It's quite an achievement to uh four, five years later to be on TV and speaking German about your business.

Oh!

Oh!

So, so yeah, like again, yeah, if you if you want to build the business, like just just do it.

So, so yeah, like again, yeah, if you if you want to build the business, like just just do it.

uh, If you fail, doesn't matter, like just takes the experience that you got out of this.

uh, If you fail, doesn't matter, like just takes the experience that you got out of this.

Yeah, I think that's also the most fascinating part of becoming an entrepreneur, because you never know what would happen tomorrow.

Yeah, I think that's also the most fascinating part of becoming an entrepreneur, because you never know what would happen tomorrow.

Yeah.

Yeah.

And if you just work in Like a a regular nine to five place, maybe you would never experience all of this. Yeah.

And if you just work in Like a a regular nine to five place, maybe you would never experience all of this. Yeah.

Right now, Florence is participating in a green innovation competition which ends on the 12th of this month.

Right now, Florence is participating in a green innovation competition which ends on the 12th of this month.

Her brand co dressing is currently ranked third and very close to first place.

Her brand co dressing is currently ranked third and very close to first place.

If you'd like to support this inspiring female entrepreneur, please download inspired APP and search for CoDressing to vote.

If you'd like to support this inspiring female entrepreneur, please download inspired APP and search for CoDressing to vote.

I will also include the link in the show note for easy access. Thank you for your support.

I will also include the link in the show note for easy access. Thank you for your support.

And you've mentioned several times that you've been a solo entrepreneur from the beginning, yeah, to now.

And you've mentioned several times that you've been a solo entrepreneur from the beginning, yeah, to now.

There are lots of work that have to be done.

There are lots of work that have to be done.

So, in general, how many hours you work each day?

So, in general, how many hours you work each day?

At first, I w-, I am alone, but uh quite uh quite often, I have interns.

At first, I w-, I am alone, but uh quite uh quite often, I have interns.

uh, So, let's say we are kind of two.

uh, So, let's say we are kind of two.

uh, So, basically, um, I'm or someone that works uh late and wake up uhThe late, uh, so, I would say my day started around at around 9.

uh, So, basically, um, I'm or someone that works uh late and wake up uhThe late, uh, so, I would say my day started around at around 9.

uh, But yeah, I close the shop, so the shop is open from 10 to 7.

uh, But yeah, I close the shop, so the shop is open from 10 to 7.

uh, And then I close it at 7, I stay at the shop most of the time until 9 9:30.

uh, And then I close it at 7, I stay at the shop most of the time until 9 9:30.

Then I go home, I I'm always eat at 10:00 pm.

Then I go home, I I'm always eat at 10:00 pm.

And, yeah, for dinner, yeah, yeah.

And, yeah, for dinner, yeah, yeah.

And uh and then I could work sometimes on my laptop uh in bed, because I I want to to have a kind of shift, uh, replying to some emails or like doing some task that areuh.

And uh and then I could work sometimes on my laptop uh in bed, because I I want to to have a kind of shift, uh, replying to some emails or like doing some task that areuh.

Bit uh annoying to do at the shop when you have customers until midnight.

Bit uh annoying to do at the shop when you have customers until midnight.

uh, So yeah, this from Monday to Saturday.

uh, So yeah, this from Monday to Saturday.

And sunday afternoon, uh, I also work sometimes, if I have nothing plan, uh, I'm, I work a bit again on on my laptop at home.

And sunday afternoon, uh, I also work sometimes, if I have nothing plan, uh, I'm, I work a bit again on on my laptop at home.

It's uh yeah, it's a lot of time consuming.

It's uh yeah, it's a lot of time consuming.

But on the other side, I I really love what I do.

But on the other side, I I really love what I do.

I don't feel that I'm working, like it's not like, uh, I have to do it. OK, this with a content, uh, with like.

I don't feel that I'm working, like it's not like, uh, I have to do it. OK, this with a content, uh, with like.

When I have to to check all the invoices and so on, yeah, this is like annoying administration tasks.

When I have to to check all the invoices and so on, yeah, this is like annoying administration tasks.

But for the rest, it's not an issue for me.

But for the rest, it's not an issue for me.

It's not like really working, I I love what I'm doing.

It's not like really working, I I love what I'm doing.

And I mean, no one would would have this schedule, uh, if if you are not passionate by by by your work.

And I mean, no one would would have this schedule, uh, if if you are not passionate by by by your work.

um, But of course, I'm also aware that on the long term, it's not sustainable as well.

um, But of course, I'm also aware that on the long term, it's not sustainable as well.

So that's also why now I'm uh I'm saying like I reach a challenge that like it starts to be difficult to do everything on my own, and to not kill my company and myself as well at work.

So that's also why now I'm uh I'm saying like I reach a challenge that like it starts to be difficult to do everything on my own, and to not kill my company and myself as well at work.

uh, Now, I need to, I think start to look for a a potential co-founder, and And look for like funds to be able to develop the business, because I have a vision like uh that I would like to share uh with uh with a cofounder.

uh, Now, I need to, I think start to look for a a potential co-founder, and And look for like funds to be able to develop the business, because I have a vision like uh that I would like to share uh with uh with a cofounder.

Like I really think that the website is great, um, and it proves that we can cheap a bit everywhere.

Like I really think that the website is great, um, and it proves that we can cheap a bit everywhere.

But I also really believe in this like stores, uh, uh, model.

But I also really believe in this like stores, uh, uh, model.

And I would like to have more stores uh in Europe as well, you know, the big cities.

And I would like to have more stores uh in Europe as well, you know, the big cities.

uh, And like to develop this uh on my own.

uh, And like to develop this uh on my own.

It's it's impossible.

It's it's impossible.

So, hmm, so for the sake of the company and myself.

So, hmm, so for the sake of the company and myself.

Yeah, and we need to change this uh this way of working.

Yeah, and we need to change this uh this way of working.

But at the beginning, I have the feeling that it's a it's a it's a step you Every entrepreneur is doing, like to push as much as you can to get like a like a s, uh, significant traction, let's say.

But at the beginning, I have the feeling that it's a it's a it's a step you Every entrepreneur is doing, like to push as much as you can to get like a like a s, uh, significant traction, let's say.

To be able then to to structure and to step back.

To be able then to to structure and to step back.

I'm not sure you really step back, but uh yeah, also to.

I'm not sure you really step back, but uh yeah, also to.

To have a bit more time, also for for yourself, to try to find a balance again, uh work life and personal life, what I barely have right now.

To have a bit more time, also for for yourself, to try to find a balance again, uh work life and personal life, what I barely have right now.

hmm, uh, I mean, uh, I still um meet my friends.

hmm, uh, I mean, uh, I still um meet my friends.

Like always when I can, like uh I'm s- I'm still going out as much as my friends, and sometimes I like, I don't know how you do it.

Like always when I can, like uh I'm s- I'm still going out as much as my friends, and sometimes I like, I don't know how you do it.

uh, But I also feel I need this.

uh, But I also feel I need this.

uh, I really needed, because if I would be just like walking walking walking, yeah, without seeing anyone around, uh, it would be very tough, and actually.

uh, I really needed, because if I would be just like walking walking walking, yeah, without seeing anyone around, uh, it would be very tough, and actually.

uh, I want to say that also because OK, I'm a solo founder, but I took all a lot of my friends in in this boat with me.

uh, I want to say that also because OK, I'm a solo founder, but I took all a lot of my friends in in this boat with me.

Like uh I have some friends that sometimes two times are like, I actually have a bit of time this afternoon.

Like uh I have some friends that sometimes two times are like, I actually have a bit of time this afternoon.

If you want that I come into your shop, I know like you have some like barcodes to create this task that are like just like um.

If you want that I come into your shop, I know like you have some like barcodes to create this task that are like just like um.

Annoying to do and not so complicated, and they are like, yeah, I can come next 3 hours if you want, just give me a laptop, and we'll help. So, they could do those kind of things, or.

Annoying to do and not so complicated, and they are like, yeah, I can come next 3 hours if you want, just give me a laptop, and we'll help. So, they could do those kind of things, or.

Could happen that I'm telling a friend like, all, tonight's, yeah, I would like to have a drink with you guys, but uh I have to clean the shop, uh, would be late, and okay, I come.

Could happen that I'm telling a friend like, all, tonight's, yeah, I would like to have a drink with you guys, but uh I have to clean the shop, uh, would be late, and okay, I come.

uh, we can clean it together, so we are faster at the bar to turn the others.

uh, we can clean it together, so we are faster at the bar to turn the others.

So, you also, I I also feel I have um like the chance to have like a lot of people around me, that are like very helpful.

So, you also, I I also feel I have um like the chance to have like a lot of people around me, that are like very helpful.

And actually, not a long time ago, like those last days, I was telling some of them that I I start to even feel a bit uncomfortable.

And actually, not a long time ago, like those last days, I was telling some of them that I I start to even feel a bit uncomfortable.

Because they're helping me a lot, and in return, I'm not capable to to give it back kind of, and it's uh uh Two of them like to told me like uh s- something that is super nice to hear.

Because they're helping me a lot, and in return, I'm not capable to to give it back kind of, and it's uh uh Two of them like to told me like uh s- something that is super nice to hear.

They said yeah, but through we wouldn't do all those things if we wouldn't believe that you can make it grow and be successful with this business.

They said yeah, but through we wouldn't do all those things if we wouldn't believe that you can make it grow and be successful with this business.

So first, you are convinced, but you you convince us as well.

So first, you are convinced, but you you convince us as well.

So so, we believe in it like you do, and we just want you to to succeed, and that's the best re- reward for us, we can we can have as well.

So so, we believe in it like you do, and we just want you to to succeed, and that's the best re- reward for us, we can we can have as well.

Like to see you succeeding, we would be like, oh, that's that's amazing, and then we just want to to be able to say, oh, you remember the first years where I was coming to help you to clean the shop.

Like to see you succeeding, we would be like, oh, that's that's amazing, and then we just want to to be able to say, oh, you remember the first years where I was coming to help you to clean the shop.

or to to re-label, or So, yeah, my parents are not around, uh, and sometimes I frustrated about that, because they are like we were entrepreneurs, so we could help you, we know what it is.

or to to re-label, or So, yeah, my parents are not around, uh, and sometimes I frustrated about that, because they are like we were entrepreneurs, so we could help you, we know what it is.

uh, or the challenges you have.

uh, or the challenges you have.

But I I tell them quite often, like, yeah, but I I also have like people that are actually here to to to support.

But I I tell them quite often, like, yeah, but I I also have like people that are actually here to to to support.

uh.

uh.

Um, so so yeah, I feel I feel very grateful on that as well, and it's Something actually, I I don't mention usually, because uh my friends know that I'm grateful, but uh I mean it's not something uh you said to clients, like this kind of of of things. Yeah, so you're.

Um, so so yeah, I feel I feel very grateful on that as well, and it's Something actually, I I don't mention usually, because uh my friends know that I'm grateful, but uh I mean it's not something uh you said to clients, like this kind of of of things. Yeah, so you're.

not solo entrepreneur, because you have so many friends.

not solo entrepreneur, because you have so many friends.

Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, exactly.

Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, exactly.

Yeah, I have people around, and I s-, I think when you develop a business, like everyone, every entrepreneur would said that like you need to have to have like a a good circle around you, that's also what brings success. um, You've mentioned that a lot of work you.

Yeah, I have people around, and I s-, I think when you develop a business, like everyone, every entrepreneur would said that like you need to have to have like a a good circle around you, that's also what brings success. um, You've mentioned that a lot of work you.

have touh, Do you on your own?

have touh, Do you on your own?

And among all of these stuff, which one is your biggest responsibility, and which one maybe you don't enjoy it at all?

And among all of these stuff, which one is your biggest responsibility, and which one maybe you don't enjoy it at all?

um, Yeah, what I don't enjoy at all, as this kind of said, it's like all these administration part, uh of all those like, I don't know.

um, Yeah, what I don't enjoy at all, as this kind of said, it's like all these administration part, uh of all those like, I don't know.

Insurance contract or like a contract for the.

Insurance contract or like a contract for the.

Paper work.

Paper work.

Yeah, like, you have so many like, when when you close something, I don't know, you are closing the topic about insurance, then I don't know like your contract for yourum, Terminal for payments is ending.

Yeah, like, you have so many like, when when you close something, I don't know, you are closing the topic about insurance, then I don't know like your contract for yourum, Terminal for payments is ending.

so you need to revise the condition.

so you need to revise the condition.

You finish that, then I don't know, it's like for the phone and internet, there is always always something, so like this part, and like accounting as well, like uh like uh to collecting invoices, to to to close the balance sheet, and so on.

You finish that, then I don't know, it's like for the phone and internet, there is always always something, so like this part, and like accounting as well, like uh like uh to collecting invoices, to to to close the balance sheet, and so on.

That's that's not the part I like the most, but I think like the majority of the entrepreneurs.

That's that's not the part I like the most, but I think like the majority of the entrepreneurs.

Yeah.

Yeah.

Um, and it's actually something that I like, okay.

Um, and it's actually something that I like, okay.

With all this AI uh development and so on, I need to check like how I can automate as much as I can. Yeah. uh, Because it's yeah, painful and it's.

With all this AI uh development and so on, I need to check like how I can automate as much as I can. Yeah. uh, Because it's yeah, painful and it's.

It's also because it doesn't bring or it doesn't bring money, it doesn't bring like kind of customers to do those task.

It's also because it doesn't bring or it doesn't bring money, it doesn't bring like kind of customers to do those task.

uh, But it's important to do them as well.

uh, But it's important to do them as well.

The task I'm the most responsible for I really focus on the on the customers, so the customers are my priority.

The task I'm the most responsible for I really focus on the on the customers, so the customers are my priority.

That it can happen that sometimes I don't know I have meetings uh with partners that could be a brand that wants to work with with the couture dressing.

That it can happen that sometimes I don't know I have meetings uh with partners that could be a brand that wants to work with with the couture dressing.

But when I see that there is uh an an order for a customer to prepare or whatever, I always say I'm sorry, my good, the customers are my priority, so I can't sold, we postpone or whatever.

But when I see that there is uh an an order for a customer to prepare or whatever, I always say I'm sorry, my good, the customers are my priority, so I can't sold, we postpone or whatever.

uh, And you prioritize your customers a lot.

uh, And you prioritize your customers a lot.

So, yeah.

So, yeah.

uh, Where did the first group of customer come from as a new business here?

uh, Where did the first group of customer come from as a new business here?

Yeah, it's uh it's through the shop.

Yeah, it's uh it's through the shop.

uh, through the shop, yeah, the physical store here in Berlin.

uh, through the shop, yeah, the physical store here in Berlin.

um, Because I mean, as I said, even if you have like a similar business, businesses uh developed, it's still the beginning of uh of like a rental services uhuh, Because I'm sure uh if you ask 10 people in a room.

um, Because I mean, as I said, even if you have like a similar business, businesses uh developed, it's still the beginning of uh of like a rental services uhuh, Because I'm sure uh if you ask 10 people in a room.

um, like, OK, let's say those 10 people have a wedding uh tomorrow.

um, like, OK, let's say those 10 people have a wedding uh tomorrow.

If you ask those ten people, uh, you need a dress for this wedding tomorrow.

If you ask those ten people, uh, you need a dress for this wedding tomorrow.

No, I'm not sure, maybe one of them would be like, I could rent a dress maybe.

No, I'm not sure, maybe one of them would be like, I could rent a dress maybe.

uh, But all the others might just like rent to a Zara shop.

uh, But all the others might just like rent to a Zara shop.

Because it's kind of affordable for a dress that they are not gonna wear again, they don't want to spend 300 euros.

Because it's kind of affordable for a dress that they are not gonna wear again, they don't want to spend 300 euros.

uh, So they would go to the to this option.

uh, So they would go to the to this option.

hmm.

hmm.

So, it clearly shows that the the The rental market is stake uh underestimated, because there is a potential, because those people that are going to Zara to have uh to have an outfit for the wedding.

So, it clearly shows that the the The rental market is stake uh underestimated, because there is a potential, because those people that are going to Zara to have uh to have an outfit for the wedding.

They go there because they are not necessary aware of this option of renting.

They go there because they are not necessary aware of this option of renting.

And um and actually, I'm I'm gonna go a bit out of the question, because yesterday I was reading something like a Super clever, that's uh uh on LinkedIn that the competitor um started to do. They did um a collab with Uber.

And um and actually, I'm I'm gonna go a bit out of the question, because yesterday I was reading something like a Super clever, that's uh uh on LinkedIn that the competitor um started to do. They did um a collab with Uber.

Oh.

Oh.

To reply to this, like the fact that, OK, if tomorrow you have an event, and you decide at the last minute what you want to wear.

To reply to this, like the fact that, OK, if tomorrow you have an event, and you decide at the last minute what you want to wear.

Mm-hmm.

Mm-hmm.

Uh, then you can get your your dress delivered, uh, thanks to Uber, like a bit like Uber eats, but for clothes.

Uh, then you can get your your dress delivered, uh, thanks to Uber, like a bit like Uber eats, but for clothes.

And and I kind of find it very smart, uh, this.

And and I kind of find it very smart, uh, this.

um, But yeah, to come back to the question, um, customers came here, uh, and that's how they dis- The first customers they discover the the concept, because you are you need to do a lot of education.

um, But yeah, to come back to the question, um, customers came here, uh, and that's how they dis- The first customers they discover the the concept, because you are you need to do a lot of education.

and still now a days, they still educate a lot at the shop.

and still now a days, they still educate a lot at the shop.

When customer come, even if it's written everywhere, rental by, even if on the label it's written, rent by the new labels.

When customer come, even if it's written everywhere, rental by, even if on the label it's written, rent by the new labels.

Customers are see like So, here I can rent everything, including the jewelry, including the bag, or can I buy stuff?

Customers are see like So, here I can rent everything, including the jewelry, including the bag, or can I buy stuff?

Are you just renting?

Are you just renting?

Or so, like you see you see that you you need to educate people, because I'm not used to enter in shops like that.

Or so, like you see you see that you you need to educate people, because I'm not used to enter in shops like that.

Yeah.

Yeah.

uh, And then they have those questions, and then they have even more questions likeuh, OK, but how does it work?

uh, And then they have those questions, and then they have even more questions likeuh, OK, but how does it work?

uh, uh, Do I have to clean the items?

uh, uh, Do I have to clean the items?

uh, What happens if I damage an item?

uh, What happens if I damage an item?

What?

What?

So, people are seen um not fully aware of uh this option uh umuh, With renters.

So, people are seen um not fully aware of uh this option uh umuh, With renters.

So, the first clients came like that, and then it was a word of mouth.

So, the first clients came like that, and then it was a word of mouth.

And on the website, uh, and actually here as well, word of mouth, of mouth, or um organic growth.

And on the website, uh, and actually here as well, word of mouth, of mouth, or um organic growth.

That's that's how my business is growing right now.

That's that's how my business is growing right now.

uh-huh.

uh-huh.

So, that's also why I would like Again to have like a a co founder to maybe look for for funds as well, because I feel that's, I mean if there is organic growth.

So, that's also why I would like Again to have like a a co founder to maybe look for for funds as well, because I feel that's, I mean if there is organic growth.

What if tomorrow I start to do like sponsored content take to have a structured mar- uh digital marketing strategy, uh, also offline.

What if tomorrow I start to do like sponsored content take to have a structured mar- uh digital marketing strategy, uh, also offline.

uh, So there is a I feel potential, uh, needs to be check, uh, always take a strategy and see the results. But um it it could really work.

uh, So there is a I feel potential, uh, needs to be check, uh, always take a strategy and see the results. But um it it could really work.

uh, But again, how also do you uh do efficient marketing for a business model like co-dressing where the first thing you need to do is to educate.

uh, But again, how also do you uh do efficient marketing for a business model like co-dressing where the first thing you need to do is to educate.

uh, It's not like tomorrow, I'm gonna create a post on the on Instagram that I will sponsored, uh, just put like 30 Euros, uh, I sell bracelets for five.

uh, It's not like tomorrow, I'm gonna create a post on the on Instagram that I will sponsored, uh, just put like 30 Euros, uh, I sell bracelets for five.

And I know that people are just gonna buy uh because it's like an impulsive purchase, and they are not gonna really check where it has been made or whatever, because it's like 5 Euros, it's nice.

And I know that people are just gonna buy uh because it's like an impulsive purchase, and they are not gonna really check where it has been made or whatever, because it's like 5 Euros, it's nice.

hmm, I buy it, point.

hmm, I buy it, point.

hmm.

hmm.

With rentals, it's a bit more, it's a bit trickier.

With rentals, it's a bit more, it's a bit trickier.

Because as I said first renters, the first time that clients might see this, they might not even think like uh oh, I could rent monthly new clothes, or they might think.

Because as I said first renters, the first time that clients might see this, they might not even think like uh oh, I could rent monthly new clothes, or they might think.

Could be nice if one day have a wedding actually, but then maybe they don't have a wedding right now.

Could be nice if one day have a wedding actually, but then maybe they don't have a wedding right now.

So how do you catch the attention of this person and then keep it?

So how do you catch the attention of this person and then keep it?

And then, even if you have the right person that will see the ad, she has a wedding soon, she doesn't have the outfit yet.

And then, even if you have the right person that will see the ad, she has a wedding soon, she doesn't have the outfit yet.

OK, but she might not, you might not convert right now, because she will need to go on your website, to check.

OK, but she might not, you might not convert right now, because she will need to go on your website, to check.

As I said, all those questions.

As I said, all those questions.

So, I can rent, I can buy, uh, what what about the shipping cost?

So, I can rent, I can buy, uh, what what about the shipping cost?

Do they ship?

Do they ship?

How much does it cost?

How much does it cost?

uh, What about the return?

uh, What about the return?

What about if the rental doesn't arrive on time?

What about if the rental doesn't arrive on time?

What about what about what about?

What about what about what about?

It's a lot of what about, and and I also feel that on my website, I still need to do a lot of work.

It's a lot of what about, and and I also feel that on my website, I still need to do a lot of work.

It's kind of intuitive, you understand?

It's kind of intuitive, you understand?