Wearable knits that are good for the environment are Ceresa Newsome's thing! With her newly found flexibility and experience in the fashion game, Ceresa is building a brand centered about items that feel good, looks good and made of things that are good. Building relationships with factories and suppliers in Brooklyn, New York makes the Sien Knitwear brand trustworthy and one who’s concerned about the customer experience! Fusing motherhood and business, Ceresa is finding her way in the world of sustainability. Meet the Queen of Knits!

What inspired you to start your business and why?: Formally trained as a Fashion Designer, I have been passionate about fashion as long as I can remember. Though I love all that the fashion industry offers, I've come to learn that there was something important missing. After receiving my Master’s Degree in Design Management from Pratt Institute, and considering the experience I've gained from previous roles in the fashion and related industries, I decided that the time had come for me to realize my dream of starting my own fashion brand.

I formed Sien Knitwear to be able to create beautiful knitwear that will inspire consumers, and to also inform them that they can be stylish and live an environmentally sustainable lifestyle at the same time. Currently, brands are focused more on the style and not so much on the potential impact of their products.

What does your company stand for?: Sien Knitwear values style, quality, and sustainability. Our focus is on creating high-quality knitwear using all natural and/or recycled materials that are not harmful to the environment. We pride ourselves on our responsible production practices, as our garments are currently produced in New York City, where we are able to build relationships with our factories, and be involved in every part of the production process.

How do you create the life you want?: As a fairly new mom and business owner, I would admit that it has been a challenge creating the life that I want. I appreciate the flexibility that I have with my schedule, as my own boss, but it is a work in progress, as both my son and my business are fairly young and require a lot of my time. Balancing work and family, while also finding me time has been a difficult feat. I definitely put all of my faith in God who strengthens me and allows me to do all that I do. I do not let fear stop me from moving forward when God says yes. I find it helpful to take small steps forward to keep the momentum going, and stop to take breaths when necessary.

Where do you find inspiration?: I find inspiration everywhere and in everything! My favorite place for inspiration is on the street. I love observing people and would always get clear visions for designs when looking at people, especially here in NYC. I also love to look at abstract art for inspiration.

How has your business made you a better person?: I've never felt so vulnerable in my adult life as I do now that I have my own business. This vulnerability has stretched me and forced me out of my comfort zone, which has made me a better and stronger person. I now see life through a different lens, always thinking about creative ways to solve problems. I truly believe it's what I was made to do.

What makes you HUMAN?: I have feelings, I make mistakes, and I'm okay with that. I strive for perfection and sometimes forget that I'm human, and no one is perfect. We are so hard on others and ourselves sometimes. I keep this in mind so that I don't run myself ragged.

CONNECT

 Website: http://sienknitwear.com/

Social Media Handles: @Sienknitwear

Email: Ceresa@sienknitwear.com