Today we’d like to introduce you to Sarika Patel.
Hi Sarika, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Well, my education and background are in finance. I have worked in infrastructure, renewable energy, and project finance for about 10 years now and continue to do so. However, I had an idea and really wanted to pursue it.
When I prepared for my wedding day, I struggled to find a photographable keepsake hanger that could hold the weight of my traditional Indian dress. The only option I found on the market was a wooden and wire hanger that ended up snapping in half from the weight of my heavy beaded gown. The hanger idea came to me around my wedding time in 2015 but I never pursued creating it until the pandemic. It took me about a year and a half to design the base of the hanger. I launched sales in January 2022.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Not at all. I didn’t know where to start. All I had was an idea. I didn’t even know the slightest thing about designing, sewing, embroidering, or where to even manufacture a hanger. It took about one year to figure all this out and then I finally was in the prototyping phase. I talked with four different engineers, two master seamstresses, and a master embroiderer. There were obstacles all along the way. The people I met throughout this process all said I have a great idea but none knew how I could achieve it. It was as difficult for the experts as it was for me but I kept at it. When I look back at my first drawing and prototype, I can’t help but say “Wow – is that where I started?”. It makes me feel very proud and even more motivated to trust the process.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
The idea to create something outside of my normal day-to-day job was so refreshing to me but also overwhelming. I felt very passionate about fashioning a product better than how it was currently done even though I knew nothing in that field. I want to make sure this is the best possible product on the market and that Heirlūm Hangers delivers an unforgettable experience. Many of our customers buy the hanger to display their wedding outfit, this is a very special occasion, and they deserve the best. All that being said, I knew what was important to me as a consumer which is: quality, inclusivity, and sustainability. So, I built my brand off those traits. This is truly a one-of-a-kind product and I am so proud to finally be able to offer it so that others can enjoy it on their special day!
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Trust the process and trust yourself. Pursue the idea and objective you had in mind. You will be surprised at who supports you and who does not. I am by no means a huge success but it has been difficult to see how many people thought my idea was stupid or how many eye rolls I received when I told people I was designing a luxury hanger. Don’t listen to that noise. Appreciate and be grateful for the people who do cheer for you. Head down…keep on going!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://heirlumhangers.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heirlumhangers/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeirlumHangers/
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/heirlumhangers/_created/
Image Credits
@Grantfoto
@nikkelsphotography
@paige.budde
@stephania_photo
Rosie
June 28, 2022 at 2:21 pm
I wish this beautiful hanger had been invented when I got married 15 years ago. Definitely excited to gift an Heirlum Hanger to my friends and family getting married though!
Lisa B
June 28, 2022 at 2:56 pm
CONGRATS SARIKA!!! YOU DID IT!!!! You are an absolute ROCKSTAR AND BOSS BABE!!!! You built a business/brand/product all during COVID times!!! CHEERS TO YOU and I can’t wait to see where you go from here!!! Your hangers are FABULOUS and a MUST HAVE for any bride to be!!!
Denise Cardozo
June 28, 2022 at 3:08 pm
I’m super excited to say I have known Sarika for almost 10!years and she is one of the most amazing women I have ever met. She is beautiful both inside and out. And I look forward to watching her build Heirlum Hangers into an extremely successful business.
Paige Branam
June 28, 2022 at 3:13 pm
What a great idea! Thank you for highlighting a woman-founded company centered on diversity and sustainability.
Elizabeth
June 28, 2022 at 3:15 pm
Such a beautiful idea!
Christie
June 28, 2022 at 3:38 pm
What a beautiful hanger, I will definitely be getting one of these for my wedding day!
Liz N
June 28, 2022 at 4:24 pm
These hangers are so luxe. I had no idea how heavy a wedding dress could be until I had one of my own. I was obsessed with looking at bespoke ring boxes as a part of my wedding day accessories. If I could go back in time, these hangers would have certainly been on my shopping list as well. Sarika’s done a gray job bringing a fresh look and feel to something so out of sight and mind!
Minal
June 28, 2022 at 4:59 pm
What a beautiful keepsake! Even though I didn’t have something like this for my wedding gown 9 years ago, it’s never too late!! Can’t wait to order mine for my 10 year <3
Liz Arrigo
June 28, 2022 at 5:06 pm
Proof that women can do it all! The sky is the limit.
Karishma Patel
June 28, 2022 at 5:18 pm
Great feature. The unique hook concept is a huge plus on this design! Well done!
Vickie Shah
June 28, 2022 at 5:39 pm
This is awesome! What a creative idea and great gift!
Kim-Anh Patel
June 28, 2022 at 5:44 pm
Wow! Love her story and such a needed product. I remember my wedding too and could’ve totally used this. Would’ve given the photos such a nice touch and lasting memory.
Marisa Falkowski
June 28, 2022 at 7:22 pm
Had this product been around when I got married, I would have ordered one for myself (and for my future hubby)! Luckily I have friends and family who are currently planning their weddings, and they definitely will be getting an Heirlum Hanger as a gift for their special day!
Sarika
June 28, 2022 at 8:56 pm
Thanks for the feature
Shruti
June 28, 2022 at 9:50 pm
Great product and excellent service! This is a MUST for your wedding day
Aatmon
June 28, 2022 at 10:48 pm
What a great idea! Definitely buying one as a present for friends who are getting married!
Mitesh J. Patel
June 29, 2022 at 5:51 am
What an uplifting story and experience! Keep up the great work!