Today we’d like to introduce you to Venessa Rodriguez.
Hi Venessa, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
I wanted to start something that reflected who I am. I went to school to be a lawyer, but I’m passionate about health and fitness. I grew up a dancer, taking ballet, tap, jazz, and dancing in college, earning my minor. I now run daily and love CrossFit. I have always been active and have always lived in activewear. Sitting at a desk all day wearing a suit isn’t really me.
Two well-known CrossFit athletes were closing/selling their clothing business, and I inquired about purchasing it. After speaking with them, I thought I could design my own apparel and figure this out myself without buying someone else’s idea. So that is what I did. In 2019 I found a manufacturer in Minnesota to help me get started. Together we designed my product, and I hand-picked my fabric and thread and all the materials that go into my product. I love loud colors and making a statement. I chose fabrics that I can make in neon colors with an iridescent panel along the side of the tight and the short. When light, or the sun, hits that panel it makes the product shine and stand out. The wearer will be noticed.
Unfortunately, the pandemic slowed my progress significantly, I had to find a new manufacturer, wait on supplies to be shipped, etc. Finally, in 2022 I was able to launch. This product is made in America, of good quality, and definitely made with a lot of heart and soul.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Definitely not a smooth road. I was employed at the time of starting this endeavor and used my job to fund the start-up. There is no outside funding, and I definitely could have used that money to invest in something else.
As mentioned before, the pandemic slowed my progress significantly, and in the meantime, I had a second child. Priorities shifted a bit during the early months of my son’s life. This project took a back seat to being a mom, but it was always on my mind.
I also had to change manufacturers and looked at several, even in other countries. The samples I was getting were not up to the quality I demanded or expected. It was more money and time lost. I finally settled on a manufacturer in the States, where it was easier to communicate expectations and which allowed me more control over the product such as all the materials that go into the garments.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I no longer work as a lawyer full-time, but my husband has his own company, Andreas Wurzer Homes, and I help him with many facets of the business. I mainly act has his realtor, but occasionally I put on my lawyer hat and help with real estate legal issues. Along with aiding his company, I am also a mom of two young children and an avid runner.
To be honest, I am most proud of my clothing launch. I am not much of a risk taker, never have been. Going the safe route has always been me, for example, getting my law degree. Diving in headfirst into the clothing industry was to prove to myself (and my kids) that risk can be a good thing. To not be afraid of failing and to go for it! I designed a product that I am proud of and that I think others will appreciate.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
My advice is to not be afraid of looking stupid. I can say that from experience. Listening to others’ success stories (or even failures) provides so much insight into being an entrepreneur. I have learned so much from my husband and friends who are successful business owners. Their advice and stories are invaluable. Ask them questions, listen to their advice, learn from them.
This goes for any industry or profession, not just for entrepreneurs.
Pricing:
- Retro Tights are $128
- Retro Shorts are $79
- Crop tops are $29
Contact Info:
- Website: fitwerkapparel.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fitwerkinc/
Image Credits
Roseann Garcia
