Today we’d like to introduce you to Lena Schlabach.
Hi Lena, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started Farmhouse Frocks 8 years ago because I wanted cute clothes as a plus-size women. I soon realized that all-size women wanted my flowing Frocks that are made right here in our community by 35 local Amish women. We also have added our own leather bag line made by a local Amish man in the community that provides for his 10 children. We have a brick and mortar in downtown Millersburg. And also, an online shop with everything available from our Frocks, bags, accessories to our home goods. We do same-day shipping.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Success always comes with its own roadblocks. I’ve learned over the years to make my decisions on faith instead of fear. That’s easier to do than to say. Some of the challenges in this stage is employment. As a small business owner, I’m not able to provide health care for my employees therefore I’m outnumbered. Last year my challenges were the delays on the textiles and the supply chain.
Something that has really helped me with my team is to put systems in place when there are frustrations. For an example, if customers or workers keep complaining about the same thing there must not be a system in place.
It’s not for the weak of heart to figure out the margins and production of an American-made product. But so worth it to make a difference in your own community like we have.
I think my strength is to be able to pivot when things aren’t working anymore or when opportunities arise.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As a designer, I make sure my Frocks fit the same on a 3X woman as they do on an XS. I give the visual to my Amish sister that is my pattern maker and she hand makes all my patterns. The nice thing is all our clothing is a comfortable fit that flatters all shape women.
I’m humbled by my positive impact I’ve been able to have on women across the globe via Instagram where I feel I’ve had a daily voice.
I’m bold with my confidence and my MORE FAITH THAN FEAR mission.
When my Amish ladies sew in the my motivating label they also pray for the women that will wear it.
What makes you happy?
Connection. I love connecting people. I’m also happiest when I’m by the beach.
I have a house at the beach I also rent out to all of my amazing followers.
Contact Info:
- Email: lena.farmhousefrocks@gmail.com
- Website: https://www.farmhousefrocks.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/farmhousefrocks/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/farmhousefrocks/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/FarmhouseFrocks
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSewHu1iVIrEDYVXyl1jecA?view_as=subscriber
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/farmhouse-frocks-millersburg-2
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/farmhousefrocks/_saved/
