Today we’d like to introduce you to Celeste Dahl.
Hi Celeste, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
In the summer of 2021, I was frustrated looking for modest swimwear. Either it was too expensive, not very cute, or didn’t provide the coverage that I wanted. I had already ordered five swimsuits at that point. As a young mom, not only did I want a cute swimsuit, but I also wanted something that was going to cover me as I chased a toddler around the pool.
After searching and searching, I decided that if I couldn’t find what I wanted, I would just do it myself! I had no background in business, marketing, or fashion. But I did know how to use Google! I spent months and months researching how to start a business, tips on marketing, and anything else I could think of. Eventually, I gained enough confidence to set the plan into motion.
After only a week of posting on social media, I had a video go viral! I still had three months before I officially launched but that video allowed people to find my website and sign up for emails to know when we launched. On launch day, we sold out over half of our swimsuits! It was incredible!
Not long after that launch, I realized I ran into the same problem looking for children’s suits. I wanted a boutique look without paying $50 for a swimsuit and that is when I decided to add mommy and daughter. Since then, we have received lots of feedback from boy moms and are adding a boy mom line in May!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It was definitely not a smooth road! I continually run into inventory problems since I am bootstrapping the business myself. I have also had to change manufacturers multiple times to really find the right partner for me who can keep up with the demand as well as produce our products in a reasonable amount of time all while maintaining ethical standards.
Another problem is marketing and letting people know you even exist! Small businesses can’t always afford to pay big influencers or run expensive ads so we have to get very creative in how we market! I would say that small businesses also struggle with imposter syndrome.
It is very hard not to compare yourself to other businesses like yours. It can REALLY get you down and definitely decrease your motivation. Remember: comparison is the thief of joy! Keep your head up even on rough days.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I would say something about me is I am very driven. When I have something I really want to do, I can’t get it out of my head: It will eat me alive! Which sometimes isn’t the best because I can keep myself up at night overthinking everything! But, I do take into consideration all feedback that I get and really strive to create a brand that people love. I want my customers to be 100% happy!
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
I love the quote that says “Success isn’t just about what you accomplish in your life, it’s about what you inspire others to do”. When I decided to start this business I would tell my husband, Even if this doesn’t end up being a life-changing decision, I just hope that it is an example to my children that you can take risks.
You don’t have to be in a standard 9-5. You can pursue your dreams and even if it doesn’t end up how you want them to, at least you won’t always wonder ”What if?”.
Contact Info:
- Email: info@desertsageswim.com
- Website: www.desertsageswim.com
- Instagram: @desertsageswim
Image Credits:
Brittany Davis Photography, Bri Ellis Photography, and Shantelle Rasmussen Photo
