It’s Time You Met :: Charlotte Pottieger
Beauty, brains + a bold take on outdated fashion norms - that’s Charlotte Pottieger in a nutshell. Charlotte is a trained color + style specialist who is taking on fast fashion by building her own sustainable clothing brand, Elizabeth Darling.
With a tagline of “slow fashion - but make it pretty please”, Elizabeth Darling aims to bring women fun, feminine, quality pieces that will stand the test of time.
Read more about this incredible brand and Charlotte’s story below.
THE INTERVIEW:
Q: Why did you decide to begin your own business?
A: I can't remember a time I didn't have my own venture in progress! From "filling orders" at the coloring table with crayons as a toddler to establishing the dance team at my high school during my sophomore year and building a successful organization with a direct sales company as my first career move, I've always had a knack for striking off on my own.
Elizabeth Darling was born out of recognition that the fashion industry is chock full of practices that are problematic for people and the planet. When I'm wearing my House of Colour hat, I'm constantly asked for recommendations on retailers and I realized there were so few I could suggest in good conscience. The brands with ethical and sustainable practices didn't align with my own style and that of many of my clients. I noticed a gap in the marketplace for classic, feminine slow fashion and took the leap of faith to deliver just that.
Q: What makes you different from everyone else out there who does what you do?
A: Elizabeth Darling is different from other brands with a similar aesthetic because we focus on a holistic approach to sustainability. From the fabrics to the manufacturing process, to the packaging, we are working to incorporate practices that honor people and respect the planet. We're focused on creating quality products that will stand the test of time instead of selling you more, more, more. We're different from other slow fashion options because our designs cater to women with classic, feminine style. You won't find boring, boxy silhouettes in our collection!
Q: What role has taking risks played into your career + business?
A: Taking risks is baked into the process. When I take a risk, it's very measured and calculated. I used to be such a perfectionist, but I've grown to realize it's key to get a draft out to potential customers as quickly and with the lowest financial investment possible--then get feedback and iterate from there. Krista and the ACORN Method was pivotal in helping me learn that principle!
Q: What is the single most important factor to your business success?
A: My faith. The more I'm able to release control over life and trust God's plans, the more content I am. I don't feel like I'm white-knuckling through business and life. When things go "wrong," it's not because I'm a failure and when they go "right," it's not because I'm so amazing. I don't feel the pressure to measure up to the success metrics of the world and that is incredibly freeing.
Q: What are your thoughts on work/life balance? What does that mean to you?
A: Finding balance is a journey! I've experienced the pitfalls of working too much and have gotten much more intentional about creating boundaries between work and personal or family time - especially after my son was born 2 years ago. I'll likely never get it perfect, but for me one of the greatest benefits of having my own business is being able to create my own schedule. Flexibility is something I value immensely. The ability to work more or less depending on the season of life is such a gift!
Q: Do you have a favorite quote or affirmation? What does it mean to you?
A: "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11 I always come back to this verse! Even when things seem to be going wrong in the eyes of the world, I can trust that God is working for my good. In that, I have peace.
THE QUICK + DIRTY:
Favorite Vacation Spot: Paris
Favorite Food: Pasta
Favorite Starbucks Order: Tall Vanilla Latte (hot!)
Favorite Disney Hero: Mulan
Favorite Movie: Pride & Prejudice (2005 version)
Favorite TV Series You've Binged: Mad Men
Favorite Sports Team: Carolina Hurricanes
Favorite Hobby: Needlepoint
Favorite Place To Shop: Elizabeth Darling, duh!
Favorite Thing To Cook: Chicken Parmesan
Favorite Makeup Item: House of Colour Lipstick #35 Clover
Favorite Book: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
