What led you to start Maeya Clothing?
I've always had a love for fashion and textiles and I've wanted to pursue a career in fashion for as long as I can remember. When I entered the competitive fitness scene I noticed there was a gap in the fitness wear market. The clothes did their job, but they were bland and often all the same style without much excitement. That's when I had my "aha" moment; why not create something myself? Athletic apparel that's not only durable and able to withstand the toughest workouts, but beautiful, unique, fashion forward, and most importantly, apparel which makes women feel beautiful and unstoppable. Versatility is also important to me, so I often create pieces that can be worn both in and out of the gym and easily mixed and matched with other Maeya pieces. I want women to enjoy their pieces inside and outside of the gym.
What has been your favourite part of starting your own business?
I have no formal training in business, fashion or textiles so I really had to study and learn everything from scratch to turn my dream into a reality. It was a daunting task and at times I felt incredibly overwhelmed and lost. It’s exhausting, but also incredibly rewarding. My absolute favourite part? When an idea turns into a sketch, then into a prototype, next a pre-
production piece and finally, into a piece that's worn by dozens of beautiful customers. I love the process, as gruelling and tough as it can be. I’m proud I never gave up on a dream I had years ago, and I love the community of beautiful women I’ve created who share the same love I have for Maeya Clothing. I'm continuously learning and growing with the business and that's an aspect I really enjoy too. There's no end to what I can learn and how I can improve.
What’s your favourite aspect about a healthy & fit lifestyle?
Having my own business means high stress days! Having a regular exercise routine helps me manage those days where stress is at a high level from start to finish. I'm not a huge coffee or caffeine consumer, so I always turn to exercise for an energy boost! Of course, I also love the confidence it gives me, and keeping myself healthy from the inside out. Who doesn't love a healthy heart to go with great skin and glutes?
What’s your favourite piece of Maeya Clothing?
I would have to say the Tiger Embossed leggings. Embossing isn't the same as digital printing; our fabric is pressed under high pressure and high temperatures to create this look. The pressing then raises the surface of the fabric to create a three dimensional effect that's so pretty. I absolutely love the Elite fabric and the delicate tiger marking embossed into the fabric makes it so beautifully unique, which is something I always strive for with my designs for Maeya Clothing.
The Tiger Embossed leggings are one of the best sellers, and always a favourite with my Maeya family!
What advice do you have for beginners just starting their fitness journey?
Don't give up when things get tough or when you feel you're getting no where. Feeling "stagnant" usually means you're closer than you think to breaking through a plateau! Always believe in your abilities, you're far stronger than you think you are!