CATHERINE Foster, the founder of Talamoana Designs, has successfully transitioned her passion for making island-style hand printed sarongs, head lei (fou), flowers as tekiteki (sei) and fabrics that can be sold in metres into a thriving business.
What started as a hobby two years ago has now grown into a registered online business, as Ms Foster ventures into the world of e-commerce.
Talamoana Designs, which is now almost three years old, was inspired by Ms Foster’s love for creating beautiful, unique pieces from textile, island-style accessories to apparels.
It is also driven by her desire to provide for her family, including her two children, both below the age of 10 years.
Ms Foster’s work is a blend of creativity and family dedication, with each craft piece taking anywhere from 30 minutes for simpler designs to an hour for more intricate work.
The turning point for Ms Foster’s business came when she enrolled in the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) a program that gives enterprising women the knowledge, networks and access they need to launch and scale successful businesses.
After a friend shared the opportunity on Facebook, she applied, eager to expand her business knowledge and take her venture to the next level.
“The AWE program gave me the confidence to move forward with my business,” Ms Foster said.
“It taught me how to manage finances, handle bookkeeping, and market my products online.”
With the tools and support from AWE, which is supported by the American Embassy in Fiji, she not only registered her business but also established a presence on social media, where customers can browse and make purchases.
This shift has allowed her to reach clients both locally and abroad, extending her market across the Pacific region.
Despite not having a physical store just yet, Ms Foster has embraced the online world, understanding the importance of utilising digital platforms for business growth.
Her social media page, “@Talamoana Designs”, has become her main avenue for connecting with customers, while the training she received has helped her refine her financial strategies and comply with necessary regulations.
Balancing business with family, Ms Foster’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is simple: “Just be yourself. It’s easy to be intimidated, but pushing yourself is key. There are no limits to what you can achieve.”
As Ms Foster continues to grow Talamoana Designs, her journey serves as an inspiring testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the right support in turning a dream into a successful business.
NOTE: This article was first published in the print edition of the Fiji Times dated December 31, 2024.
