What does MIKAI actually do?

The 5 Major Responsibilities of a Swim Designer/Business Owner:

Someone asked me the other day.... "So what do you actually do?, what do you do for Mikai if you don't make the swimwear?"

It made me think... well what do I do? I don't make the swimwear so I don't really do much at all.... haha ;)...

1. The Design Phase
Making a swimsuit idea come to life isn't as easy as it sounds...
It all starts with that little drawing, then create the pattern and material sourcing. Each one of those little phases in themselves require so much time and effort. It can take me almost 4 weeks to put together one style and around 3 months for a full collection.

2. The Shooting Phase

I become a photographer for my brand shots. It allows me to get the exact looks I am after. It works for me, and my friends who are mostly the models! It is a long day, but I always try to make it as fun as possible. Oh, and when no models are available, I happen to become a model too!

3. The Marketing Phase

I am ready to sell! Not before I get an "action plan" ready thought. I set myself goals, how I am going to reach my intended audience, listing my strategies, setting the price points and how I am really getting my product out there which leads into the next phase.

4. The Advertising Phase

Different from the market plan phase because this involves another expense, the expense of negotiating with potential advertisers. The people who have a similar target market, represent the lifestyle and all round correspond with my brand that allow me to reach a wider audience. 

5. The Final Phase

The final phase doesn't feel so final because it is a continual phase. The orders come through, then they are packaged and ready to ship. This relationship doesn't end there though... The intent is to be long-term, so now the cycle begins again. 

All in all, I think the one part I don't do for Mikai (manufacturing) makes up for all the other parts I do DO! It is truly a full time job, presence is required, planning is required and so is action. It isn't easy, but you can ask anyone running a business and their response will be the same. Nothing is easy. 

Hope this tell's you a little more about what I do for Mikai.

Much Love,

Mikhailla xx