What do you do when the brand says you're too expensive but you know you're the right person for the gig?

That's exactly what one of my FAST Track Turbo students, Allison Pickthorn experienced! We worked out her pricing strategy and with some savvy negotiation, she landed a $15,000 project! We break down all the strategies and mindset shifts that eventually got her the project, her experience with client negotiations, and the surprising twist involving an Indian manufacturer and a retailer right in her own backyard.

Allison also shares her thoughts on why it's crucial to stand firm on your worth and how to put together portfolio teasers that can tip the scales in your favor. Whether you're curious about freelance pricing, dealing with international clients, or just love a good success story, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the small yet significant steps that make a big difference in landing high-ticket projects.

About Allison:
Allison is an apparel designer with over 20 years of experience designing kids, baby, and licensed apparel for large retailers. In early 2024, she decided to transition into freelancing to continue doing what she loves while leaving behind what she doesn't. She lives in Seattle, Washington, with her amazing daughter and their two lazy cats.

Connect with Allison:
Visit her website
Email her at: allisonpickthorn@gmail.com
Connect on LinkedIn

Sick of being tied to a desk and want more freedom in your day, snag my free training: How to Freelance in Fashion (even if you're terrified you don't have all the answers) by clicking here.

👀 Check out our YouTube podcast channel: sewheidi.com/getpaid

How do you go from fashion freelancer to owning a design agency?

We're breaking it down in today's episode with guest Lindsay Kondel who did exactly that! In our chat, she shares her journey, from starting out as a head designer at an activewear label to leveraging Instagram and networking to build her agency. Also find out why collaboration trumps competition, especially in the dynamic world of fashion design. Whether you're a freelancer or an agency owner, this episode is packed with actionable advice and real-world experiences to help you elevate your fashion business.

Resources:
117: How to Quit Your Full Time Fashion Job and Start Freelancing
Check out the Instagram of Streetwear of Roses!

About Lindsay:
Lindsay Kondel is the cofounder of Stacked, a full-service fashion design agency. Stacked helps create killer fashion brands, working with both emerging and established labels. The agency bridges the gap between creative vision and commercial outcome through "stackable" services, allowing clients to cherry-pick based on their individual needs.

Connect with Lindsay:
Visit her website
Email her at: info@stacked-studio.com
Follow on Instagram
Connect on LinkedIn

Sick of being tied to a desk and want more freedom in your day, snag my free training: How to Freelance in Fashion (even if you're terrified you don't have all the answers) by clicking here.

👀 Check out our YouTube podcast channel: sewheidi.com/getpaid

What if you could break the feast or famine freelance cycle with one simple mindset shift?

I talked with Kyle Kushner, a coach for freelance and entrepreneurial creatives, and we had some very interesting discussions around this topic and much more.

Kyle opens up about overcoming self-doubt and embracing an entrepreneurial mindset. He talks about how to promote ourselves, boost confidence, and form genuine, non-transactional connections on LinkedIn. And you gotta hear Kyle's awesome journey from feeling nervous and undercharging to doubling his rates and locking in an eight-year business partnership. The episode also dives into killer strategies for proactive networking and the game-changing power of shifting your mindset.

Ready to transform your professional presence and skyrocket your freelance career? Listen now to start optimizing your client-finding strategies.

Resources:
Listen to Podcast Episode 166 with Aashika: This Fashion Freelancer Changed ONE Thing On LinkedIn and Got More Clients
Check out Justin Welsh's course on how to grow and monetize LinkedIn. Please note that this is an affiliate link.

About Kyle:
Kyle is a professional graphic designer with 25 years of experience in the entertainment industry, including 21 years as a freelancer. He is currently a certified professional coach who assists the careers of other freelance creatives. Kyle shows them how to transition from traditional freelancers to successful entrepreneurs.

Connect with Kyle:
Visit his website
Email him at: kyle@kylekushner.com
Connect on LinkedIn

Sick of being tied to a desk and want more freedom in your day, snag my free training: How to Freelance in Fashion (even if you're terrified you don't have all the answers) by clicking here.

👀 Check out our YouTube podcast channel: sewheidi.com/getpaid

Curious about turning freelancing into a stable career?

It's possible with the help of these secrets on pricing, Upwork strategies, and LinkedIn hacks with today's guest, Rachel Kranick. She shares real talk on ghosted clients, work-life balance, and leveraging her previous experience. Plus, get tips on staying financially savvy and embracing the freedom of freelancing. Don’t miss this inspiring career pivot story!

Whether you're wondering if making the leap into freelancing is possible, or a seasoned freelancer, this episode is filled with gold nuggets of strategies that can have a big impact on your career. You'll definitely want to listen to this one!

Resources:
Read the LinkedIn post about Rachael's Hawaii trips and freelance journey.

Listen to the strategy session I had with Rachael in 2023.

About Rachael:
Rachael is a senior activewear designer with over 12 years of experience, working with brands like Nike, Travis Mathew, and MonoB.

An outdoor enthusiast, she enjoys camping, hiking, paddleboarding, and dragon boat racing, and is passionate about helping women and marginalized groups connect with nature.

Rachael loves partnering with small brands to provide creative support and ensure their products are trend-right, functional, and resonate with their audience. Through strategic design, she helps create best-selling products that increase sales and build customer loyalty.

Connect with Rachael:
Email her at: design@rachaelkranick.com
Connect on LinkedIn

Sick of being tied to a desk and want more freedom in your day, snag my free training: How to Freelance in Fashion (even if you're terrified you don't have all the answers) by clicking here.

👀 Check out our YouTube podcast channel: sewheidi.com/getpaid

What if getting new projects was as easy as sending a quick catch-up message?

You've got a hidden goldmine in your network, and today we talk about how to tap into those connections without feeling awkward or annoying. This clip is from a strategy session with one of my FAST students, Daniella Kahle, where we talk about the simple strategies you can use to reconnect with old industry connections.

We give some real-life examples of how reconnecting pays off, sometimes in unexpected ways. From dusting off old LinkedIn connections to sending casual text messages, it's all about human-to-human rapport. Imagine getting project referrals just from catching up! Plus, find out why big brands and niche markets both offer potential freelance gigs. Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up, you won't want to miss these insider tips.

Sick of being tied to a desk and want more freedom in your day, snag my free training: How to Freelance in Fashion (even if you're terrified you don't have all the answers) by clicking here.

👀 Check out our YouTube podcast channel: sewheidi.com/getpaid

Today we're flipping the script and interviewing the host, Heidi - part 2!

One of our FAST students approached with the idea of interviewing Heidi and they talk about naysayers, email etiquette, and the hurdles of scaling a business. We tackled the reality of failures and why resilience is key. We also shared candid stories about hiring struggles and overcoming confidence issues, especially when it comes to pricing. Remember, the right support system can push you beyond your limits.

Resources:
Part 1: 229: Special Episode: Heidi Gets Interviewed (part 1)
SFD100 To Reach Your Goals in Fashion (and Life), Just Do ANYTHING

Sick of being tied to a desk and want more freedom in your day, snag my free training: How to Freelance in Fashion (even if you're terrified you don't have all the answers) by clicking here.

👀 Check out our YouTube podcast channel: sewheidi.com/getpaid

Today we're flipping the script and interviewing the host, Heidi!

One of our FAST students approached with the idea of interviewing Heidi. We talk about the highs and lows of running an online business, from epic launch events to the emotional rollercoasters that come with it. You'll hear about my transition from freelancing to a successful online business, the impact of therapy, and the crucial support systems that made it all possible.

Plus, there's a juicy insider tip on the art of interviewing—think curiosity over scripted questions. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or just love a good success story, this episode is packed with insights that will leave you inspired and ready to tackle your own dreams. 💪

Resources:
SFD100 To Reach Your Goals in Fashion (and Life), Just Do ANYTHING

Sick of being tied to a desk and want more freedom in your day, snag my free training: How to Freelance in Fashion (even if you're terrified you don't have all the answers) by clicking here.

👀 Check out our YouTube podcast channel: sewheidi.com/getpaid

If you want to scale your freelance fashion design business, there are three strategies you need to know.

Everyone's path can look different but Connie Bourgeois turned her side-gig freelance biz into a million-dollar agency in four short years. With the right strategies and hard work, you can grow your fashion design business, too. And if it all seems too good to be true, don't worry, because we are also diving into some of the cold hard truths that are the realities of growing a business.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale, this episode is packed with client-finding strategies you can put to use today! Hit play and kick-start your freelance growth.

Resources:
SFF147: "I turned my side hustle into my full-time hustle."

About Connie:
Connie Bourgeois founded Conjetta Designs to support designers and entrepreneurs by making their apparel dreams a reality! By sharing her extensive knowledge of design, development, sourcing, logistics, merchandising, and brand building, with both her team and her clients, Connie fosters an environment of collaboration, innovation and growth, allowing her clients to focus on growing their business instead.

Connect with Connie:
Visit her website: www.conjettadesigns.com
Email at: connie@conjettadesigns.com
Follow on Instagram
Connect on Linkedin

Sick of being tied to a desk and want more freedom in your day, snag my free training: How to Freelance in Fashion (even if you're terrified you don't have all the answers) by clicking here.

👀 Check out our YouTube podcast channel: sewheidi.com/getpaid