Meet Colleen Berwick, the small business owner of Denim Redemption, a creative and sustainable business based in Port Macquarie, NSW. Colleen turns recycled denim and cotton fabrics like old jeans and skirts into handmade bags including tote bags, make up pouches and pencil cases.
Read more about Colleen’s business journey so far:
Colleen’s Business
I started my business around 2020, but things picked up more over the last 4 years. I didn’t really have the know-how at the start. I have been doing it more seriously since 2022. I make bags out of recycled jeans or skirts—denim or cotton fabric. I make different types like tote bags, make-up bags, and pencil cases. My business works toward the elimination and dumping of unwanted clothing into landfill. We do this by empowering smart consumers to buy beautiful bags made from recycled and reused fabrics and pre loved garments.
What were you doing before you made contact with Many Rivers? Why did you want to go into business?
I have been unemployed for a long time. I’m 65 now and it’s hard to get a job at my age. I used to work in corporate jobs—mainly in accounts and admin.
Working with Many Rivers
How did you find out about Many Rivers?
I am part of the Micro Business Forum in Port Macquarie. That’s where I met Bruce, my business coach. I met him about a year ago.
Why did you want to go into business?
I did a fashion design course a few years back because I couldn’t find clothes that fit me properly. That got me into making my own clothes, and later I started making bags. That’s how the business idea started.
What services did you receive from Many Rivers? How did it help?
Bruce gave me business coaching and overall support. He helped me put business plans together and guided me through things.
What did you find the most useful about the assistance from Many Rivers?
The regular coaching sessions have been great. We meet often to check in on how things are going. Bruce is very supportive.
Did you get a loan from MR? How did you use the loan?
No, I haven’t taken out a loan.
Do you have any current employees? If so, how many employees? Are they full-time or part-time?
Just me.
Biggest Challenge
Self-motivation. That’s the hardest part for me. Also, not having enough funds. For example, I need to get my sewing machine serviced, but I don’t have a back-up machine if I send it away.
Biggest Success
I have got a working website now, and that’s a big deal. I am learning how to use it properly. I’m also learning how to use AI, and I’ve got a marketing plan and two campaigns running now.
Biggest Change
People like what I am doing, and I am still learning. I am not letting life pass me by, even at 65. I have started dancing again after 30 years, and I feel good and productive.
Future Goals
In the short-term, I want to build up more stock. I’ve got bags in a commission-based shop in Lismore called Music Bizarre, and I want to keep my motivation up. Whereas, in the long-term, I’d love to see my bags sold in a proper retail store, not just on commission.
Thank you Colleen for sharing your business journey with us. We wish you the best of luck with future endeavours and business success.
If you would like to stay updated with Colleen’s small business, follow “Denim Redemption” through the following links:
We love to encourage people to take the first step towards kick-starting their small business ideas. Do you have a business idea?
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