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Shelley Klassen, Owner
Blushing Designs

Shelley Klassen provides women with contemporary classics - beautifully designed, high-quality fashions with long-term appeal. In 1999 she launched Blushing Designs, and since then has seen the business grow from local to international distribution.

Shelley studied haute couture at Richard Robinson Academy of Design in Ottawa. She worked for a designer in Vancouver, where she made the decision to start her own company. The Women's Enterprise Centre assisted with start-up funding. Like most businesses, Shelley finds the greatest challenge is in the financial areas, as her company has continued to double in revenue for the last four years.

During this time, Blushing Designs expanded its line from dresses, tops and skirts; they now include coordinates for versatile day-through-evening appeal. Shelley accessed useful information from Women's Enteprise Centre when she decided to begin exporting her product. The line is now available in over 60 boutiques throughout Canada and the United States.

Managing growth realistically is one of the cornerstones of Shelley's success. She recommends anyone starting her own business also be prepared to focus on what's important. Start with a solid business plan, and set your goals well ahead. "Envision everything you need to accomplish over and over again in your mind."

"Don't get too down when things go wrong," she says, "and too excited when things go right. Try to stay positive and remember there is a solution to every problem, so don't panic."

"Organization is key. Delegate whenever possible, and focus on what you are good at." She also recommends you stay on top of cash flow and forecasting. In the end, though, it's all about drive.

"You must have passion and utter determination to succeed," she says, adding that you can't be afraid of taking calculated risks.

"Being an entrepreneur does not ensure a secure, easy lifestyle. The highs and lows are extreme, so you have to have the stomach for it. Believe in your talent and never accept defeat."

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