For my first post, I believe I should begin by introducing myself to the blogging world. I am Leandra Vaughn Williams, designer and CEO of Zula Maternity. We are going into our third year of business and are excited about what the future holds! I guess to get things started, I should tell you a little about me and how everything came to be.
I am a country girl at heart and grew up in the rural farmlands of Southeast Georgia. I always knew that farming was not in my future, but it did instill many values that I carry with me to this day. With not a lot of things to do in a small town, I spent many of afternoons drawing, coloring, and sketching. Before I knew it, it was time to decide what college to go to and what to do with my life. I always knew I wanted to be a fashion designer, but I promised my parents I would receive a business degree first. I am glad I took their advice, and I received my B.B.A from the University of Georgia. ( Go Dawgs!) Those truly were the best times of my life and where I met my wonderful and handsome husband.
While working full time at a couture bridal salon in Atlanta, I returned to college ( American Intercontinental University) to obtain a B.A with a dual major in Fashion Marketing and Fashion Design. For as long as I can remember, I wanted to concentrate my focus and talent on maternity wear. I took advantage of my fashion courses and developed my business plan, business name, business projections, etc. while under my teacher's supervision It was wonderful to have teacher's advice and opinions to steer me in the right direction while in the early stages of business planning. ( Thanks Ms. Corso and Ms. Green!!!)
It took about a year after graduation to officially start Zula Maternity. Afterall, I was busy making my own wedding dress while trying to sort through all the legalities of having my own business! Ever since Zula Maternity started, I have been busy and stressed, but I have loved every single minute of it! I honestly can say that my friends and family (you know who you are) have been the backbone of this company. They have inspired and supported me more than they will ever know!
Now, I am primarily asked two questions wherever I go, and I am guessing it might have crossed your mind too.
First question...Why did you name your company 'Zula'? There is a simple answer. Zula was my Grandmother's name and Zula means 'brilliant' as well. She was a beautiful woman, and I hope this is just one way to remember her memory.
Second question...Why maternity? Do you have kids? I get this question ALL the time! No, I have never been pregnant. Most people are shocked when I tell them. I guess most people don't think about maternity wear unless they need it, but that is not the case with me. I honestly cannot remember when I decided to focus on maternity. It is just something I have always wanted to do. I think pregnant woman are so radiant and beautiful, and I wanted to make clothes to show off their new curvier figure.
Fastforward to the present, Zula is currently in maternity boutiques throughout the country and in China. We just launched our website, www.zulamaternity.com, which allow mommies-to-be to shop online. Our apparel is soft and sophisticated; fashionable yet comfortable. Our clothing is very transitional to allow our clients maximum usage. They can wear our clothes at the office, running errands, or out to dinner with the daddy to be.
Enough about me. Sorry this blog was long...It is hard to sum your life up in a few paragraphs! I hope I shed a little bit of light on Zula Maternity and my passion for what I do. It has been a roller coaster so far, but no complaints because I love roller coasters!
