How This 13 Year Old Fashion Designer Got to Where She Is Today
At just 13 years old, Erikka Franklin has created a thriving small business.
Creator of FannysOfFab on Etsy, Erikka has already made a big name for herself in the fashion world. This young fashion designer and entrepreneur sells adorable custom fanny packs with cute embellishments.
Want to learn more about her journey? Keep reading for our full interview with Erikka Franklin:
Sweety High: What inspired you to start your own Etsy shop?
Erikka Franklin: My love for fashion and accessories started at a very young age, and one day I finally decided to go for it! And I'm so happy I did.
SH: What drew you to fanny packs in particular?
EF: I've been sewing ever since I was 6 years old and have always loved customizing and creating. Suddenly I received intel that fanny packs were coming back! It was very challenging to find ones that fit my style, so I started a custom fanny pack line called Fannysofab. It also gave me a chance to create pieces everyone can enjoy!
SH: What are some of your favorite fashion brands?
EF: I love to support small businesses, so most of my wardrobe comes from small businesses and pieces from the thrift store. I love @femmeporter, @ohhey.girl, @angeleyez and so much more!
SH: What has been keeping you busy during quarantine?
EF: I've been reading, finding new crafts, watching YouTube, finding ways I can improve Fannysofab, focusing on mental health and building my immune system!
SH: Are there any designers you've met through Etsy?
EF: I've connected with lots of young entrepreneurs such as @curlanistas, @justtimple, @taylenbiggs and @jamilasmall. I hope to meet lots of young designers in the future.
SH: What has impacted you the most during your journey as a young entrepreneur?
EF: Networking and meeting new people had been the most impactful in my entrepreneurial journey. The most exciting thing that has happened has been meeting people like Liza Koshy and Joey King. Also, Khelani, Kandee Johnson, Kandi Burruss and more have been rocking my designs. I'm so grateful for the experiences and opportunities I've been receiving. I can't wait to see what the future holds!
SH: What do you plan on doing with your platform?
EF: With the platform I've been given, I feel as though it's important to spread awareness about BLM, signing petitions and more. Thankfully, lots of people (including me) started contributing more to black-owned businesses, so it caused Fannysofab to reach Instagram pages and conversations, all of which has caused traffic on my Etsy site!
SH: What advice would you give to young entrepreneurs?
EF: Work hard, work smart and don't give up!
Love supporting small businesses? Look HERE for seven ways to support small businesses during COVID-19.