Maryann Lee Siryon

As we near the end of this exciting venture, reflecting on our journey has given me a more profound understanding of what’s working, what needs improvement, and how this experience shapes my perspective on business and personal growth.

 What’s Working?

Our curated selection of vintage-inspired T-shirts continues to attract customers, reinforcing the value of blending nostalgia with modern fashion. The pop-up event was a standout success. Our retro belts and hats sold out, proving strong demand for an expanded product line. Plus, our storytelling approach has strengthened brand engagement and customer loyalty.

What’s Not Working? Inventory management remains a challenge. Predicting demand for different styles has been tricky, and balancing stock levels requires constant adjustment. Additionally, I’m still working on shifting my mindset around slow sales periods, realizing they can be beneficial for strategizing rather than feeling like setbacks.

 How is the project coming along?

 Business is progressing steadily, and overall, things are going well. Despite the challenges, the brand has gained traction, and customer enthusiasm confirms that our efforts are making an impact.

What Am I Learning About Running a Business?

 Work-life balance is crucial. I need to refine my skills at keeping up with operations, customer engagement, and marketing while managing personal time. Adaptability and strategic planning have proven essential, and direct interaction with customers at pop-ups has underscored the power of in-person retail.

 What Am I Learning About Myself?

What Is Working?

 Maryann Retro Revival's branding and visual appeal speak to our target audience. The retro aesthetic generates genuine interest; our social media ads (particularly on Instagram and Facebook) increase traffic and engagement, and early sales data suggest that the nostalgic vibe appeals to buyers. Our carefully curated aesthetic and inviting atmosphere work together to transport consumers on a nostalgic journey, serving as a lasting asset for our brand.

What Is Not Working?

  I have encountered a couple of operational hiccups. Finding authentic vintage items that fit our criteria has proven more difficult than expected, which presents one difficulty in inventory management. Sometimes, this difference causes delays and less predictable stock flow. Furthermore, our antiquated internal systems for managing orders and client comments indicate a demand for more modern technologies or procedures to help our expanding company.

 How Do You Feel the Project Is Coming?

  Though there are some hiccups, overall, I feel the project is moving forward consistently. I am excited to see the brand come together and consumers start relating to our goal. Still, we must solve these operational issues to guarantee steady, long-term expansion. The development is encouraging; every obstacle is a teaching moment that drives us forward.

What Are You Learning About Running a Business?

Being in the middle allows the theoretical concepts from class, like balancing short-term cash flow with long-term vision, to come to life. Managing a company entails balancing creative innovation with pragmatic concerns such as supply chain management and effective order fulfillment. To thrive in a competitive market, one must maintain flexibility, continuously evaluate performance measures, and be adaptable enough to pivot when necessary.

 What Are You Learning About Yourself?

As I dive into Week 11 of my entrepreneurial journey with MaryAnn Lee Siryon Retro Revival, my company continues to evolve and teach me invaluable lessons. Here's the latest progress:

What is working? My company is excelling at connecting with eco-conscious, fashion-forward individuals who appreciate the charm of sustainable, retro fashion. By leveraging platforms like Instagram and Facebook Marketplace, I’ve been able to showcase unique vintage pieces effectively while keeping overhead costs low. Sourcing items through thrift stores, garage sales, and personal networks has been a successful and affordable strategy.

What is not working? One challenge my company faces is consistently finding high-quality vintage pieces within my $50 budget. Additionally, balancing operations across multiple online platforms while maintaining steady content and customer engagement has been overwhelming at times. The process of balancing affordability, sustainability, and individuality remains an ongoing adjustment.

How do I feel the project is coming? I feel optimistic about how my company is shaping up! The business is gaining traction with a solid foundation and a clear vision. While challenges exist, I see great potential for growth and milestones to achieve within the 14-week timeframe.

What am I learning about running a business? I am learning the importance of strategic sourcing, effective resource management, and audience engagement. Marketing through social media has been a challenging but rewarding process that’s pushing me to adapt quickly and create value in innovative ways.

What is working? My business is starting to pick up. Networking through Instagram and Facebook Marketplace has helped me gain traction. I’ve also been building a small but loyal customer base. Connecting with people in person has worked well, and I’ve learned that when they see the products, they get excited about the sustainable and unique pieces I offer. Sourcing my items from thrift stores, garage sales, and friends has kept my costs low and allowed me to find some incredible, one-of-a-kind fashion pieces.

What is not working? Time management is a constant struggle. I've successfully managed the time it takes to prepare and list items, but I'm still overbooked and running out of time for other tasks. Managing the day-to-day tasks of promoting on social media, processing orders, and sourcing inventory is more time-consuming than I anticipated. On some days, it feels like I'm struggling to maintain a consistent stock flow, and the unpredictability of vintage finds can be quite frustrating.

How do you feel the project is coming? I’m feeling positive overall. It’s been hard work, but I can see things coming together. There have been some stressful days, especially with trying to balance everything, but I’m proud of my progress in these first 10 weeks. By the time I hit 14 weeks, I think I’ll have learned much more and have everything running smoothly. I’ve built good connections with customers and vendors already, which gives me hope for long-term growth.

What are you learning about running a business? I’m learning that building relationships is key. Whether it’s with customers, other small businesses, or suppliers, the connections I make now will pay off in the future. It’s all about trust and offering value. I’m also realizing that consistency is everything. I can’t just post and hope for results; I must keep engaging with my audience regularly. And staying organized is a huge challenge. It’s easy to get lost in the creative side and forget the logistics, but I’ve had to remain consciously on top of the behind-the-scenes work.

 Maryann Lee Siryon Retro Revival

What Is Working: Maryann's Retro Revival's online presence on sites like Instagram, Facebook Marketplace, and WhatsApp has gained traction. Generating curiosity and queries has shown social media advertising to be successful. The unusual and eco-friendly vintage selections drew three new clients this week alone. Fashion-forward, ecologically concerned people have connected mainly with the dedication to eco-consciousness and uniqueness.

What Is Not Working: Although social media involvement is encouraging, persuading and convincing potential consumers to change from fast fashion to sustainable options is still challenging. Even when given more ecologically friendly choices, many people find avoiding their regular buying behavior difficult. Finding high-quality vintage items within the initial budget has also taken effort and occasionally limited inventory variety.

How the Project Is Progressing: The project is moving gradually and on target to reach its objectives. There is a market for original, environmentally friendly fashion items, and the groundwork for expansion has already been laid. The goals of the company and the needs of its target market align quite precisely.

What I Am Learning About Running a Business: Managing a company has made me realize how crucial strategic planning, flexibility, and resource control are. Juggling marketing, consumer involvement, and product procurement has proven difficult and fulfilling within limited resources. Furthermore, insights into online customer behavior and trends have been helpful for brand development and promotion.

Launching MaryAnn Lee Siryon Retro Revival has been an exciting journey, and it’s clear that there’s always more to learn and room to grow. Each step along the way presents a new opportunity to refine strategies and discover innovative ways to connect with eco-conscious, fashion-forward customers while staying true to the values of sustainability and individuality.

What is working: The strategy of curating and promoting vintage clothing through online platforms like Instagram, Facebook Marketplace, and WhatsApp is gaining traction. Particularly among environmentally sensitive and fashion-forward people, social media advertising has been shown to be powerful in sparking attention and questions. Engagement levels are excellent, and the company attracted three new customers this week alone, underscoring growing desire for retro, sustainable apparel.

What is not working: Despite the positive engagement, convincing potential customers to transition away from fast fashion or other current purchasing habits remains a challenge. Many people are resistant to change, even when presented with sustainable alternatives. However, sourcing high-quality vintage pieces within the initial $50 budget constraints requires significant time and effort, occasionally limiting inventory variety.

How is the project coming along?

The project feels like it’s on the right track. The initial results are encouraging in an apparent demand for unique clothing and sustainable fashion pieces. While there’s still room for growth and fine-tuning, the foundation built during these initial weeks is solid and aligns with the business’s mission and values.

What am I learning about running a business?

This garment business has shown the need for strategic planning, adaptability, and practical

 resource control. Following a small budget and juggling marketing, consumer involvement, and sourcing has been demanding and fulfilling. I also have insightful knowledge about consumer behavior online, marketing trends, and the subtleties of establishing a brand presence on digital media

What am I learning about myself?

What is working:

 Advertising on social media channels is successful, drawing lots of questions and creating curiosity.

What is not working: I find it difficult to convince consumers to embrace my good or service instead of their present behavior.

How is the project progressing:

The project is moving forward without incident. Our first assignment was "choosing a business,” thereafter, we worked on a feasibility study. Practically, the reverse would be more rational; I think this is the intended direction and flow of the course.

What am I learning:

 Although my husband and I have effectively run a business before, a grand ice cream Parlor offering a range of mouthwatering tastes, I would have avoided a few company planning mistakes if we had registered in this course earlier.

For my retro business, I primarily rely on personal investment to fund MaryAnn Lee Retro Revival, as it currently does not generate the revenue needed to qualify for external financial assistance.

In addition, for my family's ice cream shop, we utilize personal investment and patient capital. We are actively exploring grant opportunities and have been offered funding from a local financial benefactor.

Policies:

 Work hours are flexible enough for sourcing, marketing, and customer service demands since the solo proprietor requirements. Safety: Correctly handle and sanitize apparel products. Guarantee a neat, orderly workstation for packaging and photographs.

Customer satisfaction is assured by refund or return. For items in original condition, we have a 7-day return policy. Size concerns have exchanges available.

Payment is needed during the time of purchase. For client convenience, we allow several online payment options.

Source: Visit garage sales and thrift stores and network personally often. Evaluate everything for possible market worth, style, and quality. Listing Procedure: Photograph objects in natural light; include thorough descriptions, including history, condition, and measurements. Update all selling systems' inventory. Procedure of Communication: Answer every client's question within 24 hours. Maintain a friendly, professional tone in all your contacts. Pricing Strategy: Look at similar products and consider the desired profit margin and source cost. Sometimes, run specials to increase sales. We aim to provide a unique range of antique clothes that combine affordability, sustainability, and elegance. We revitalize vintage items so that fashion-forward, eco-aware consumers may show their uniqueness and choose responsibly for the environment.

Mission:

Creative Writing - Definitely Not a Safety Pin

Introducing the SliverMate, a versatile tool that goes far beyond its humble beginnings as a safety pin. Here's a list of its Top 5 Uses:

Tooth Picker

Charging Port Cleaner

Sliver Digger

Poster Hanger

Carb Jet Cleaner

SliverMate - There for You, When You Need It Most!

At MaryAnn Metro Revival, we have developed an exciting new product! Have you ever been out in public or away from home and gotten an pesky annoying sliver in your finger? If so, the SliverMate is just for you!

About Them: Usually fashion-forward, environmentally conscientious people, our clients value original, antique apparel. They could include young professionals, students, and fashionistas who give sustainability and uniqueness top importance in their wardrobe.

Use Case:  Our clients look for fashionable and distinctive antique clothes that fit their values of environmental consciousness and personal expression.

Previous Solution & Pain Points: Many consumers struggle to locate reasonably priced, excellent vintage apparel. They might have tried buying at bigger retail establishments or other websites but discovered the choices either were not unique enough or too costly. Furthermore, some consumers worry about how rapid fashion affects their surroundings.

Benefits: MaryAnn Metro Revival offers stylish, unique, and sustainable fashion alternatives at affordable prices. Our curated vintage pieces allow customers to express their individuality while supporting eco-friendly choices. By providing high-quality vintage clothing, we help customers feel good about their purchases, both in terms of style and sustainability.

Buying Trigger: Our customers are motivated by a desire to make environmentally conscious fashion choices and to stand out with unique, retro styles. They appreciate building relationships with sellers and prioritize shopping locally when possible.

Buying Process: We use multiple social platforms including Instagram, Facebook Marketplace, Tumblr, and WhatsApp to showcase our products. Customers can direct message us with questions, and we offer flexible drop-off and pick-up times to accommodate their schedules.

Choice Factors: Customers choose MaryAnn Metro Revival for the following reasons:

Affordability: Competitive pricing for high-quality vintage clothing.

Sustainability: Commitment to eco-friendly fashion choices.

Individuality: Unique, curated vintage pieces that allow for personal expression.

Convenience: Flexible drop-off and pick-up times, and easy communication through social platforms.

Competitor 1: Out of the Past – https://outofthepast.ca/

Location: 340 St Paul St, St. Catherines, ON L2R 3N2

Website Experience: The website is colourful and quirky, showcasing a diverse vintage collection. It includes detailed product descriptions and high-quality images.

Market Positioning: Positioned as a unique and eclectic vintage clothing store, targeting fashion-forward individuals who appreciate quirky and colourful styles.

Reviews: Generally positive reviews, with customers praising the variety and uniqueness of the clothing.

Pricing: Mid-range pricing, balancing affordability with quality.

Social media: Active on Instagram, with regular posts featuring new arrivals and styling tips. Engages with followers through comments and direct messages.

Strengths: Unique and diverse product range, strong brand identity, good customer engagement.

Weaknesses: Limited operating hours2.

Competitor 2: Roly Poly Records & Vintage -https://mydowntown.ca/discover/roly-poly-records-vintage/

- Location: 314 St Paul St, St. Catharine, ON L2R 3M9

Website Experience: The website is functional but lacks a modern design. It features a mix of records and vintage clothing, with detailed product descriptions.

Market Positioning: Positioned as a mixed bag of records and vintage clothing, targeting music and vintage enthusiasts.

Reviews: Mixed reviews, with some customers praising the variety and others mentioning issues with product quality.

Pricing: Lower price range, making it accessible to a wider audience.

Social media: Active on Instagram, with regular posts about new arrivals and music-related content. Engages with followers through comments and direct messages.

Strengths: Affordable pricing, wide variety of products.

Weaknesses: Inconsistent product quality, less engaging online presence.

Competitor 3: The Studio Shop-https://nac.org/studio-shop/

Location: 433 St Paul St, St. Catherines, ON L2R 3N4

Website Experience: The website has a trendy design with easy navigation. It features a curated selection of vintage fashion, jewellery, home décor, and art from local artists.

Market Positioning: Positioned as a trendy and artistic vintage clothing store, appealing to environmentally conscious and art-loving customers.

Reviews: Positive reviews, with customers appreciating the unique styles and the eco-friendly focus of the business.

Pricing: Mid-range pricing, balancing affordability with quality.

Social media: Very active on Instagram, with a strong following. Regularly posts about new arrivals, eco-friendly fashion tips, and customer testimonials.

Strengths: Trendy and eco-friendly focus, strong social media presence, engaging content.

Weaknesses: Mid-range pricing may not appeal to those looking for the cheapest options.

Market positioning:

MaryAnn Lee Siryon Retro Revival

Website Experience: our website experience is user-friendly and visually appealing, showcasing a curated selection of vintage clothing with detailed descriptions and high-quality images.

Market Positioning: Positioned as an eco-conscious and fashion-forward vintage clothing store, targeting individuals who appreciate sustainable fashion and unique retro styles.

Reviews: Aiming to build a loyal customer base with positive reviews highlighting the quality, affordability, and sustainability of the products.

Pricing: Affordable pricing, making it accessible to a wider audience while maintaining quality.

Social media: Active on Instagram, Facebook Marketplace, Tumblr, and WhatsApp, with regular posts featuring new arrivals, styling tips, and customer testimonials. Engages with followers through comments and direct messages.

Strengths: Sustainable and unique products, strong social media presence, quick turn-around, flexible drop-off hours, and scalability.

Weaknesses: As a new business, it may take time to build a strong customer base and brand recognition.

Below are my Strengths and weaknesses self-assessment.

Strengths: Empathy, Organization, Communication, Resilience, and Loyalty.

Weaknesses: Work-life balance, Delegation, Adaptability to sudden changes.

Strengths: I excel in my personal life due to my strong empathy. I always there for my friends and family, offering support and understanding. My organizational skills help me to manage my personal and professional responsibilities effectively, ensuring that are stays on top of my commitments.

My communication skills are another significant strength. I can express my thoughts and feelings clearly, which helps me build strong relationships. My resilience allows me to bounce back from challenges and maintain a positive outlook in life.

Loyalty is a cornerstone of my character. My friends and family know they can always count on me to be there for them, no matter what.

Weaknesses: Despite my strengths, I struggle with work-life balance. I often prioritize my professional responsibilities over my personal life, which lead to stress and burnout.

Delegation is another area where I face some challenges. I tend to take on too much work on myself, believing that I can handle tasks better than others. This led me to feeling overwhelmed.