1ST RETAIL STOCKIST

Early in WDSC’s growth, two Venice stores approached me, intrigued by the local buzz around my hats. New shops aimed to leverage my traction to drive foot traffic. One, Middle of Nowhere (now closed), contacted me via Instagram for a deal. With a limited budget, they requested a small clothing batch, but without a wholesale program and facing high production costs, I hesitated. Ultimately, I agreed, betting on the exposure their store could offer.

Visiting the owners, I saw a disconnect. Their organic, art-centric vibe—earthy and charming—didn’t align with WDSC’s bold streetwear identity. Still, I provided a few hoodies and hats. The hats sold steadily, boosting visibility, but the hoodies likely stagnated. I wasn’t a fan of those hoodies, and the in-your-face “Wet Dreams” text probably didn’t click with their clientele, despite online interest.

Key Lessons

This venture highlighted critical retail insights:

• Structure B2B Deals: Negotiate mutually beneficial terms for sustainable partnerships.

• Brand Alignment: Only place products in stores that reflect your aesthetic and values.

• Preparation is Key: Before approaching retailers, refine your brand strategy, presentation, and unique offering. Conduct thorough due diligence to ensure fit.

• Selective Partnerships: Avoid rushing into deals for quick exposure. Walk away if the alignment isn’t right.

Prioritizing strategic, well-vetted partnerships over hasty placements builds a stronger foundation for long-term success.