How Persistence and Purpose Create Success

Slow and steady wins the race. It is a cliche for sure, but it is only cliche because of the inherent truth of it. Sometimes however it is a hard pill to swallow. Patience, as many will tell you, is not one of my stronger traits.

Persistence on the other hand is most definitely one of my stronger characteristics.  When you couple that persistence with a burning, singular purpose you can accomplish anything. While my personal mission to create a Garment District in Seattle is taking my far longer than I had intended to gain traction there has been significant progress on that front.

Most notably is the recent invitation by the Greater Washington Fashion Chamber of Commerce to participate in their 3rd Annual State of Style Advocacy Day on the Hill. The video below is from the panel discussion I was asked to be a part of.

I was deeply honored to be a part of this panel. The panel discussed President Obama's small business agenda, and significant pieces of legislation currently in committee, and the importance of business incubators to the creative economy. We also discussed how Fashion Incubators from across the country are currently assisting small businesses in their markets, as well as the formation of a National Coalition of Fashion Incubators.  

There are currently 13 identified incubators which have expressed interest in coalition membership. One of which is my labor of love Seattle Fashion Incubator. The irony of having 13 original member incubators is not lost on me. In fact I find it quite apropos.

The distinguished panel of industry leaders moderated by Lauren Rothman, Huffington Post Style Contributing Editor also included:

• Janet E. Heinzen, Director Office of Textiles and Apparel, US Department of Commerce

• James V. Hunter, Legislative Aide, Representative David Price (D - NC)

• Jacqueline B. West, Field Operations Specialist, Office of Field Operations, Small Business Administration

• Adriana Pavon, Co-Founder of the Detroit Fashion Collective

The panel urged attendees to voice their support for H.R. 2275 American Textile Technology Innovation and Research for Exportation (ATTIRE) Act, and H.R. 1418/S.509 Small Business Lending Enhancement Act of 2011.

When you add to the mix our turn around of the Seattle International Textile Expo I am very proud of what we've managed to achieve in the last year. I couldn't do it alone. I've the support of great people. Most notably Danny Done, my business partner, VP of Marketing, and confidant. I don't say it enough, so I say quite publicly now. I have a great deal of respect and appreciation for Danny. I could not have achieved any of this without his help.


I would like to personally thank Mr. Alan Lee, and Representative Jim McDermott's (D - WA) office for taking time to meet with me about these important jobs creation issues.  Please click the links above and let your legislators know that you support the passage of the above bills.  With your help we can revitalize the industry, and create 'Made in the USA' jobs.