For the next instalment in our "In Conversation With' journal series, we caught up with Suz, the founder of On Carter Lane. She designs and hand makes the most exquisite 100% linen scrunchies and face masks, some of which are included in selected gift boxes of ours.
On Carter Lane's elegant, minimalist style, alongside their more neutral products originally attracted us to the brand and as soon as we saw a photo of their ivory scrunchie, we knew we had to work together!
We now stock three colours of the large linen scrunchies - Ivory, Oatmeal and Sage - by On Carter Lane and you as customers love them! We've no doubt these beautiful products will be a very popular choice in our Create Your Own Gift Box which is being built into the site at the moment and coming soon.
Let's grab a cuppa and get to know more about Suz and her wonderful business.
Tell us a little bit about your business?
On Carter Lane is an accessories brand with an aesthetic inspired by the earthy and natural tones of Carter Road, which sits on the coast of Mumbai, India. I grew up all over the world and Mumbai was a place I would visit often growing up – one of the few constants in my life!
On Carter Lane is an accessories brand with an aesthetic inspired by the earthy and natural tones of Carter Road, which sits on the coast of Mumbai, India. I grew up all over the world and Mumbai was a place I would visit often growing up – one of the few constants in my life!
All of our products are handmade by me (Suz) out of 100% linen fabric and aim to add that extra touch of elegance to any outfit.
What motivated you to start your business and become an entrepreneur?
I think it’s always been something that I’ve wanted to do and having lots of free time during the pandemic has finally given me the space to be able to make it a reality. I love the creative freedom you have as an entrepreneur, but also the way it challenges you on a daily basis.
Where do you find inspiration for your products?
I find inspiration from lots of different places – from images I see on Pinterest, to colours and textures I see when I’m out for my daily walk, to trends my friends speak about or that I see people talking about on Instagram. My customers are also a constant source of inspiration!
I think it’s always been something that I’ve wanted to do and having lots of free time during the pandemic has finally given me the space to be able to make it a reality. I love the creative freedom you have as an entrepreneur, but also the way it challenges you on a daily basis.
Where do you find inspiration for your products?
I find inspiration from lots of different places – from images I see on Pinterest, to colours and textures I see when I’m out for my daily walk, to trends my friends speak about or that I see people talking about on Instagram. My customers are also a constant source of inspiration!
Talk to us about sustainability in your business - how do you approach this?
Sustainability is super important at On Carter Lane. I minimise the use of packaging and also use recyclable materials wherever possible. I have even optimised the width and length of the products to ensure minimal fabric waste in the cutting process!
What’s your most favourite aspect of running your own business?
The feeling when you make a sale just never gets old, it’s the most rewarding feeling! I also just love talking to my customers and understanding what their favourite colours / products are.
What’s a challenge you’ve had in your business and how have you overcome it?
One of the biggest challenges has been the feeling of just being so overwhelmed with everything! I think a lot of small business owners will empathise with this – that feeling of needing everything to be done to high standards ASAP. I’ve found setting small goals for each day to be the best way to manage everything. Also allowing yourself time to rest!
Tell us a bit about you as a person - your values, loves, hates and hobbies?
I’m a bit of global child. I’m half British and half Indian and I grew up in five countries – India, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Bangladesh & The Philippines. I’ve been so fortunate to have been able to experience so many amazing cultures and have learnt so much from each of the communities I’ve been a part of. I love shopping (obvs) and the countryside, I hate bananas (long story!).
On your day off, what can you be found doing?
On my down days, my favourite activity is to get a takeaway coffee and go for a long walk with my partner. I also try and fit in exercise wherever possible – it’s so important for the soul! Going for a long run is another favourite activity.
What was your dream job when you were younger?
Oh gosh, honestly, at one point I wanted to be a pilot! Haha I think for the last 10 years or so my dream has been to run my own business and I’ve slowly built up the knowledge (and courage) to make it a reality.
On my down days, my favourite activity is to get a takeaway coffee and go for a long walk with my partner. I also try and fit in exercise wherever possible – it’s so important for the soul! Going for a long run is another favourite activity.
What was your dream job when you were younger?
Oh gosh, honestly, at one point I wanted to be a pilot! Haha I think for the last 10 years or so my dream has been to run my own business and I’ve slowly built up the knowledge (and courage) to make it a reality.
If you could go back and tell yourself one thing when you were first starting out in business what would it be?
To not put too much pressure on myself or the business and to just enjoy the journey!
What are your visions for your business in the future?
My plan is to grow On Carter Lane into new product areas. I’m currently in the process of planning what those will be, so watch this space!
Where can our customers buy more of your products?
Our full range of scrunchies and face masks are available to purchase via Etsy - https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/OnCarterLane
We'd love to hear what you thought of our interview with Suz in the comments. What's your favourite product by On Carter Lane?
Looking for more to read? Have a browse through our other journal entries.