Thursday, 10 September 2015

Solution Solution.

Tell us about your line of laundry products, Solution Solution, and how it all began?
Solution Solution is a laundry brand for the modern world: where everybody has laundry but nobody has a spare moment. We realize that doing the washing is not something you necessarily look forward to so we have tried to create products to make the laundry more enjoyable. Our washes smell beautiful and are very gentle so you don't need to worry about damaging your clothes. That's really how Solution Solution was born. Katie and I both love clothes but noticed that there was a massive knowledge gap when it came to taking care of them. Our website and blog is filled with information on how to properly care for your clothes which complements our washes.
What are the goals for Solution Solution in the coming year?
We see ourselves as the new science, and the lost art of laundry. Hopefully we can revitalise the garment care industry! We want to teach people how to love their clothes longer and encourage them to learn about their clothing too. At Hustle&Scout where you have the opportunity to speak with designers that process is simpler.
You developed the formula for your products in partnership with the CSIRO, what did you enjoy about that experience?
Katie has degrees in Chemistry and Pharmacy. She developed all of our products herself and then approached The CSIRO to use technology in order to make our innovative products as effective as possible. It has been a great process which we have thoroughly enjoyed. Utilising science in such a surprising and unexpected way has been so much fun. As a non scientist I have learnt a lot.
When you're not working, what do you like to do for fun?
I actually do enjoy doing the washing now! So that's nice, because it has to be done. I am currently completing my honours and Katie is completing her Doctorate in Jurisprudence. I am also in a musical currently and Katie has two beautiful children. That takes up all of our time and some!
What is it about Hustle&Scout that made you want to be involved?
Katie and I have both attended Hustle & Scout in the past. We love the high quality goods that we see at hustle and scout and we obviously love fashion. Supporting local businesses is also really important to us. Art is at the core of our brand and it a big part of Hustle & Scout. So the fact that Hustle & Scout was a fusion of these things made it something we were really keen to be a part of.
MY FAVE THINGS
What you wanted to be when you grew up: Katie: Everything! So being an entrepreneur lets me do that by working in art, science and laundry. Jo: I wanted to pick up rubbish from the side of the road with a stick. As you can see I have always wanted things to be as clean as possible.

Your role model/s: Katie: SCOTUS Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, she is tough, intelligent and classy. Jo: Dr Catherine Hamlin - her complete commitment to the improvement of the lives of women is awe inspiring.

Meal to have cooked for you: Katie: Anything, and I will eat it all! I love food but I would much rather do laundry than cook. Jo: Butter Chicken - naturally I love food that is incredibly likely to stain your clothing.

Country you have visited: Katie: Africa, it is just so different, it influences your perspective on life. Jo: Oman. I don't even feel like I need to explain why - it is so beautiful.

Song on your ultimate mix tape: Dirty Laundry by Kelly Rowland and Cleaning out my closet by Eminem - as you can see we like themed R&B.

Runaway Apparel.


Tell us about your brand, Runaway Apparel, and how it all began?
Runaway Apparel started with a desire to provide affordable fitness apparel to ladies that is fashionable and of high quality.
What are your creative goals for the coming year?
Our main creative goal is to add more designs to our collection. We are also looking into increasing our colour options. We have worked closely with various local businesses to establish our brand and look forward to collaborating with more local designers in the future.
Describe the Runaway Apparel design aesthetic...
We would describe Runaway’s designs as simple, unique and slightly urban. We really dig geometrical lines and mesh detailing. We want to design and supply items that can compliment and work with a wide range of fashion styles.

When you're not working, what do you like to do for fun?
When we aren’t working, we absolutely love training at various places around Canberra like F45, Original Bootcamp, Crossfit SFS, Anytime Fitness and Elite Physique. We also love creating amazing foods, brunch being our favourite meal.
What is it about Hustle&Scout that made you want to be a stallholder?
Having attended the markets last year and seeing what a great opportunity it is for local businesses to show case their products, we just couldn’t resist. The atmosphere is so unique and intriguing it really sets it apart from other markets. We are so excited to contribute to the day and explore other people’s creative work!

MY FAVE THINGS
Fave place to unwind: Outside with fresh air and sunshine, we LOVE the beach and having picnics. We are able to clear our minds, relax and brainstorm.

Your role model/s: We are inspired daily by our friends and family who have continuously shown us their support. As part of our Runaway family, we have two amazing local girls who are strong and motivational women that represent our brand.

Item in your studio: Currently, our favourite item in our studio is the newest member to our team: Dolly, our mannequin. We are so excited to have our clothing on display and be able to offer customers the opportunity to see and try on our clothing.

Guilty pleasure: Nutella.. on strawberries.. on top of pancakes with choc chips.. The list could go on.

Fashion item you have made: We love our mesh panel leggings. The feedback we have received on the comfort, style and affordability has been so amazing and humbling. We hope to have new stock available over the coming months.