Midwest Bloggers: Behind the Brand: Katie and Kelly of Muchana

We are so excited to introduce the dynamic duo, Katie and Kelly of Muchana! These sisters recently started their own line of gorgeous Ecuadorian hats, and we couldn't be more pleased to feature them! Read about how they started & learn a little more about them below! Plus, we've got a special discount for Midwest Bloggers! Use code "mwstyle" at checkout and receive 30% off your order at www.Muchana.com.

BASICS:

Name: Katie Garcia and Kelly Cook

Business Name: Muchana

Location: Kansas City

Occupation: Katie: Publicist Kelly: Architect (Owners of Muchana)
Website: www.Muchana.com

OTHER:

Hobbies: We both love to travel and sleep in!
We couldn't live without our: Instagram accounts (we’re obsessed!). Find us at @MuchanaStyle!

MORE ON MUCHANA:

What is your business & what do you specialize in?

We work with a artists in Ecuador to import handmade goods such as panama hats, handbags and scarfs! Our hats are made from paja toquilla and can take up to two weeks to make. Our handbags are also handmade from paja toquilla. Shh…we’re currently working on designing a paja toquilla shoe line for next spring! Ecuador is known for its rich textures, fabrics and handmade artisanship and we love to share Ecuador’s wears with the world!

Of all the creative aspects of your job, which part is your favorite?

Our favorite part is working with the artists in Ecuador to customize our products. We’re constantly trying out new colors, patterns and styles to perfect our accessories. We have weekly, sometimes daily skype sessions (thank goodness for technology!) and we are looking forward to our next buying trip this fall.

Are you a full time, two-woman show?

We are sisters! We work together on everything and we both currently also have full time jobs. We work every night and every weekend on our biz. We are having success and you can currently find our accessories in four retails locations in Kansas City. Our motto is work hard, play hard!

When & why did you decide to start your own business?

Katie: My husband is from Ecuador and moved to the United States in 2005. I started traveling with him to Ecuador to visit his family and I would always bring back handmade goods for family and friends. Everyone loved the accessories so much, we decided to start working with Ecuadorian artists to support their craft and bring the products to Kansas City.

What advice would you give to those who would want to start their own business?

Our best advice would be to write a business plan before you start, so you have clear direction on what you’re working towards. The business plan will help you stay focused and on track to the business of your dreams We also recommend you stock pile some cash for start up money!

What's your favorite thing about your job?

We love knowing that we are helping to support Ecuadorian artists and their families. We know our investments are helping to preserve their art form and bringing income directly to the people who hand make our accessories. Plus, we love sharing these fab goods with other fashionistas!

When you're not working on Muchana, what can you be found doing?

Katie: You can probably find me sipping wine on the patio, at the gym or planning my next travel adventure! My very fave thing in the summer time is to lay by the pool in a panama hat.

Kelly: I’m currently training for a tri-athalon so you can either find me in the pool, hitting the pavement running or on a bike. Your best guess is as good as mine!

What's the best fashion brand advice you can offer bloggers?

When you’re working on developing fashion line or brand, know your target audience! Experiment, do research and learn what makes them tick. This will help you customize your marketing and products to fit your customers the best. They’ll love your products and you’ll love them right back!

Contact info: