Interview with Ruby, the founder of Banjaara.
Banjaara is a clothing brand inspired by the colours and culture of India. Ruby, the founder was adamant to make the materials of high quality and with vibrant colours. In this interview we learn about the background of Banjaara and what it is like to run an online business.
Check out the website here:
How did Banjaara happen in the first place?
Back in 2015 my itchy feet led me to explore Asia. India is a country I fell in love with & have returned to many times. So I started Banjaara to bring people clothes they love, that love the planet & its people!
Banjaara is 100% Fair Trade and ethical - could you tell us a little more about why this is important to you and how you made it work?
Among the many things that inspires me about India is their attitude to consumption. Goods are produced carefully, ethically, with high quality & long held traditions. Which means they are built to last - something that seems revolutionary in this fast-fashion era. Clothes are the skin we choose; it is how we communicate ourselves to the world. That's why wearing a product of modern day slavery, with a disposable mindset seems so wrong to me.
Your prints are colourful and vibrant - where did this inspiration come from?
Just like India my garments are vibrant & colourful, this is a big reason as to why I love the kantha collection, every time I see them I am taken straight back to India. I like to think my prints & colours capture my love for travel, fabrics & diverse cultures!
What is it like to have an online business? What have been the ups and downs?
Having an online business is wonderful, I am able to work in the comfort of my home yet reach people internationally. When I hit too much screen time I am able to leave my desk & take a walk in nature, it is in these moments I find inspiration for my designs.
As the founder of Banjaara do you have any business tips that you would like to share with us?
I think the key thing for a successful business is believing in your product. And if you don't take the gamble and go, how are you ever going to know?
How big is the Banjaara team? Are you located in one area of the world or is it an international team?
I have recently been joined by the lovely Amy. Amy helps me one day a week with marketing my products, something my creative mind struggles with. We are located in a small seaside town in Wales.
And lastly, what are your short-term goals for your brand?
Both my short term & long term goals is to expand my little business, with future collections, I want my customers to know who exactly made their clothes, the social & environmental impact they have. And when the world is open again, to travel & seek out many more treasures.
