Today we’d like to introduce you to Akila Palaniswami.
Hi Akila, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I began draping sarees for brides as a side hustle. In two years, it grew into a full-time bridal styling business. After leaving my 9-5 job, I researched full-time entrepreneurship. I also closed my franchise business with a financial loss in 2024. I am addicted to entrepreneurship life. I saw many differences between lifestyle businesses in the wedding industry and regular Silicon Valley startups. So now, I write about successful wedding business owners on my blog.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I started Pattupleats without any business knowledge. I had to learn how to create systems, handle billing, and respond to inquiries.
Business is tough, and the wedding industry is even tougher. Most wedding businesses are lifestyle businesses. That means a business is more dependent on the owner’s desires than on the market. So, studying the market is harder than in other business models. Pricing is tricky, and making sales becomes challenging.
I am struggling to find the right product-market fit in the wedding industry. Luckily, I failed in another franchise business. The experience helped me know what not to do.
We’ve been impressed with Pattupleats, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
What should we know?
After failing in another business, I can now analyze wedding industry models. I enjoy writing about those concepts to help other wedding entrepreneurs.
What are you known for?
I’m a hustler. I make ongoing improvements, regardless of the business challenges. Pattupleats is becoming an online platform. It helps wedding entrepreneurs gain valuable insights. These insights come from detailed excerpts and analyses of interviews with leading wedding industry entrepreneurs.
What sets you apart from others?
I am not a passionate wedding professional. But a skilled wedding professional. I take time to learn, master, and share it with others too. People whom I styled always had an experience rather than a transaction with me. Also, my generosity mindset allows me to write about entrepreneurs.
What are you most proud of brand wise?
Pattupleats thrives despite my naïve entrepreneurial mistakes. Empowerment is a key value for us. I practice it daily with clients and industry peers.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
I am still old school reading books
1. Zero to One
2. This is Marketing
3. Positioning -The Battle for Your Mind
I am yet to complete the 2nd one. If you own a business, shut up and follow Seth Godin’s advice.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.pattupleats.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pattu_pleats/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pattupleats/
Image Credits
Client images credit : https://www.franktesisteco.com/
