Episode 15: How this Hat Brand continues to Sell Out Every Drop - Duzh Vug

In a recent episode of The Colour Plane Podcast, hosts Jesse and Jack sat down with Tom and Sasha, the founders of the hat brand Duzh Vug.

The episode delves into the fascinating world of handmade hats, their experience at the Beyond the Valley festival, and how they balance their close friendship with running a successful business. Let's take a look at the key lessons from this engaging conversation:

1. Handmade Hat Production: Tom and Sasha shared insights into their unique hat-making process. Each hat is meticulously handcrafted, with designs painted and bleached onto blank canvases. It's a labor-intensive process that can take anywhere from half an hour to a couple of hours, depending on the complexity of the design.

2. Scaling Challenges: The founders discussed their experience at the Beyond the Valley festival, where they sold a significant portion of their stock. They initially underestimated the demand and had to work tirelessly to keep up. They also faced unexpected challenges like wind gusts that threatened their setup, leading to valuable lessons about preparation.

3. Balancing Friendship and Business: Tom and Sasha emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance between their close-knit friendship and running a business together. They shared how they had to adapt and make decisions that would benefit the business in the long term, even if it meant adjusting their approach.

4. Overcoming Self-Doubt: Both founders acknowledged that self-doubt is a common experience in the world of entrepreneurship. They recounted moments of uncertainty and questioned whether their efforts were worthwhile. However, the love and support they received from their community helped them stay motivated and push forward.

5. Community Engagement: Tom and Sasha expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming support and love they've received from their customers and community. They highlighted the energizing effect of seeing people appreciate their creations and how it fuels their passion for what they do.

6. Pivoting in Startups: The founders recognized the flexibility and agility that startups offer. They discussed the importance of being open to change and pivoting quickly when necessary, especially in the early stages of a business.

Conclusion: The Colour Plane Podcast's interview with Tom and Sasha of Duzh Vug provides valuable insights into the world of handmade hat production, the challenges of scaling a business, and the dynamics of maintaining a strong friendship while being entrepreneurs. Their journey reflects the common struggles and triumphs that many startups face, making it an inspiring and informative episode for aspiring business owners and creative minds alike.