Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Cantu.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I went to school at the Art Institute of Houston for Fashion and Retail Management. In my last quarter of attending AI, I interned in Carlton Hall Inc., a sleepwear and loungewear manufacturer. This company is owned by Jane Carlton-Hall, my then teacher. I graduated with a Bachelor’s and absolutely no desire to sew or design; however, I knew I wanted to have my own business. Luckily, Jane asked me to join the team. For me, this was a great opportunity to learn more about business.
I became production assistant and then was promoted to production manager. I witnessed every single step it took to make a garment from cutting, sewing, pressing, quality control and packaging. Industrial machines fascinated me and I learned quickly how picky and detailed my eye became when looking at garments and their finishing details. Naturally, I decided I wanted to learn how to sew and registered at HCC in the Fashion Design program. Although I did not finish the program, a couple of years later, I decided I was going to start my own business.
I enrolled in the Miss Mexicana U.S. pageant representing my families home state of Nuevo Leon in 2018 to gain confidence and lessen my fear stage freight. I sewed three of my looks for the pageant and marketed myself as a designer. I did not win and came to the conclusion that pageantry was definitely not for me, but my garments received great feedback from the contestants! Since then, I have participated in a few fashion shows and working on a new collection, as we speak.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It is as smooth as it can be. I think the struggle has been more internal, asking myself questions such as who am I as a designer, who is my target, what is my story, what is my niche? Will people even understand my point of view, will people respect me as an artist?
Jessica Cantu – what should we know? What do you do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
My business is pretty new. I am a fashion designer, so I am my company. That is why I decided to name it after my name. I seek inspiration, I brainstorm, I create by sewing. I market myself on social media and by participating in fashion shows. What sets me apart from others is my point of view, just like others point of view sets them apart from me.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
I define success by having financial freedom living off my craft. My criteria is to never undervalue myself and charge my worth.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 8323667090
- Email: cantujessica023@gmail.com
- Instagram: jessica_cantu_al_cuadrado
Image Credit:
LeBray Limited Edition, A Digital Vision, and BADS photography
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