Meet Anisa McFarlane #eBayAlumni
Meet Anisa, Founder of Past Summers, a fashion brand with a purpose. We sat down to learn more about the cocktail dress business and what it’s like being a part of the BGF x eBay Seller Academy programme.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your business?
My name is Anisa, and I'm the proud founder of Past Summers, a start up fashion brand with a purpose. Our primary focus is centered around curating and crafting sustainable women's cocktail dresses that resonate with elegance and conscious living.
My journey has been shaped by a deep love for fashion and my background in luxury fashion and retail. With Past Summers, my goal is to offer a sustainable alternative to fast fashion culture. I believe that young women deserve timeless and ethical choices for special moments, be it weddings or enchanting date nights.
Why did you start your business?
I'm passionate about reshaping the narrative around second-hand clothing, showcasing that the glamour of vintage fashion can come without a designer tag. My journey has always been about wanting to create a meaningful impact in the fashion industry, and running my own fashion business has been a longstanding dream that I'm now bringing to life through Past Summers.
What made you apply for the BGF x eBay Seller Academy?
Spotting the BGF x eBay Seller Academy on Instagram was like finding a hidden gem. After running my market stall for a couple of months, my customers really wanted my products but also the ease of online shopping. The problem? I had absolutely no clue where to even start. In today's digital age, not having an online presence feels like a missed opportunity. Thankfully, I stumbled across this course (Thanks Liz, Kelsie & Team). eBay's global reach is perfectly aligned with my clients' international demands. But what really excited me was the chance to connect with other black women entrepreneurs. The idea of networking with like-minded souls was music to my ears. The drive to learn and elevate my business urged me to jump right in and apply. And hey, who wouldn't be interested in the cheeky grant opportunities?
How has the programme supported your business?
There’s been loads of ways but honestly the marketing session in conjunction with Martina from SixtySix agency was fabulous, I was so engaged! I’d previously never thought about how I’d describe my products from the customer's standpoint. The programme has really helped me think from a customer centric point of view and a business can only go forward from there.
Do you think you will continue to sell on eBay now that the programme has finished?
100%
What's next for you and your business?
Big things, I'm working hard on my marketing and social media to grow my reach and digital presence. Watch this space! Hopefully your next birthday dress will be Past Summers.
What advice would you give to those looking to start their own business and join our Seller Academy?
Be open, be social and be ready to get stuck in.
You and your fellow business owners are all in it together, no question is too silly- Just ask it!
If you can make it to the face to face check- in’s, GO. You’ll make connections.
If you can’t make it to sessions to be active in the chat, you never know you might make a new friend.
Make sure you book all your 1-1 sessions with the eBay team and bring notes (I always do)!
In terms of starting a business the sooner you start the closer you are to succeeding. Take it from me, I wanted to start this business 4 years ago, I planned my heart away but I was really just procrastinating the first day I actually started and put myself and my products out there. I had a real business with real customers.
Good Luck!
Thank you so much to Anisa for taking the time to answer some questions! Check out Past Summers on eBay.
