Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to NATALIA PECHLIVANI. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
NATALIA, thank you so much for taking the time to share your lessons learned with us and we’re sure your wisdom will help many. So, one question that comes up often and that we’re hoping you can shed some light on is keeping creativity alive over long stretches – how do you keep your creativity alive?
To begin, it is essential to acknowledge that creativity is not a constant, but rather a dynamic and fluctuating process. It is perfectly normal to experience periods where one’s creative energy ebbs and flows. Embracing this natural rhythm of creativity is an integral part of the creative journey.
I firmly believe that in order to foster a continuous wellspring of ideas, one must consistently nurture their intellectual curiosity and commit to ongoing learning.
In my personal practice, I deliberately immerse myself in artistic stimuli as a means of nurturing my creative spirit. This involves frequent visits to exhibitions and museums, as well as extensive exploration of various forms of media, such as movies, which serve as wellsprings of inspiration. Music, too, plays a significant role in my life, serving as a rich source of creative influence.
Nature, with its serene beauty and inherent patterns, not only aids in clearing my mind but also serves as a profound well of inspiration for my work. Indeed, elements from the natural world find their way into my designs, weaving the organic and the artistic into a harmonious tapestry.
Furthermore, it is imperative to work diligently on shaping the nebulous ideas that reside in one’s mind. This process requires patience and an unwavering commitment to achieving the desired end result. Equally vital is a crystal-clear understanding of what one wishes to convey, along with a well-defined purpose for their brand and a compelling narrative to share. Establishing a core message and methodically evolving it is fundamental to effectively communicate and resonate with one’s audience.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I am the founder of Miss Funky Natty, a small lingerie brand situated in the beautiful island of Cyprus.
At Miss Funky Natty, we have a deep-rooted passion for crafting exquisite lingerie that makes every individual feel confident, beautiful, and empowered. Our brand is a testament to the synergy between creativity and craftsmanship, as we are dedicated to both the design and production of lingerie.
Our journey begins with me, personally involved in the intricate process of designing our products. The designs are a reflection of my vision and a celebration of body positivity, diversity and femininity.
What sets Miss Funky Natty apart is our commitment to quality and craftsmanship. We are proud that our production is entirely based in Cyprus, where our dedicated team of skilled craftswomen work diligently to bring our designs to life. Each piece is meticulously crafted with precision, paying attention to the finest details, ensuring that it meets the highest standards of quality.
My collection consists of soft bras with no underwire that have a natural shape instead of a sculpted one. Also comfy panties, nightwear & loungewear.
I would like to point out that I am not interested in mass production or stock, my collection aims for custom made pieces which are consulted with my customers. My pieces deliberately give emphasis on hand-crafted items. I feel that our work can uncover personal hidden stories, that which global mass consumption culture has deterritorialized.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Three attributes that have profoundly influenced my journey are consistency, persistence, and a steadfast commitment to my brand’s vision. There were numerous instances when I grappled with despair and contemplated surrendering, weighed down by the relentless sacrifices and overwhelming demands. Nevertheless, I persevered, resolutely returning and presenting myself each day.
For those embarking on their own journeys, my advice is to brace themselves for the inevitable sacrifices that lie ahead. If financial resources are limited, prepare for arduous hours of work, resolutely accept rejection as a stepping stone, and be ready to embrace mistakes as invaluable learning opportunities. Failure, as paradoxical as it may seem, is an indispensable component of personal and professional growth.
One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?
I continuously seek out creative individuals from diverse corners of the globe, forging collaborative partnerships with a wide array of talents, including photographers, models, and artists.
My overarching aspiration is to establish an inclusive creative community that revolves around my brand. This community will serve as a nurturing space, not only for artistic expression but also as a platform dedicated to uplifting and empowering women hailing from various walks of life and backgrounds. By fostering an environment where creativity flourishes and women are offered opportunities to shine, my aim is to bridge cultures, transcend boundaries, and celebrate the talents of women worldwide, thereby contributing to a more diverse and equitable world.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.missfunkynatty.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/missfunkynatty/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/missfunkynatty/
Image Credits
Lea Savvides, Salome DeChaud, Danae Charalambidou, Maria Vasilaki