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Candice Wu
WOTC profiles Chinese designer Candice Wu of her namesake bridal fashion house as she discusses her obstacles in the industry and how she raised the finances to start her business after graduating.
WOTC: Why bridal?
Candice: I found out that not many bridal shops had a custom touch. Most shops usually sold pieces on the rack which you ordered by sizes. I believe bridal dress should be one-of-a-kind.
WOTC: How did you raise enough money to begin your business? Did you have a lot of financial backing or did you have to back yourself?
Candice: I had to back myself financially. I started with individual clients first and doing all the stitching work by myself until I had enough assets to open my store front and hire all the seamstresses I have now.
WOTC: How do you support other women in business?
Candice: I worked with many women who own businesses. We support each other and share our experiences.
WOTC: Do you think women can have it all?
Candice: No. Having it all means doing it all. I think men and women pull their weight as equally as possible in a family or at work and that women no longer feel ashamed for hiring help, getting help or asking for help.
WOTC: How do you prevent burnout?
Candice: I take control, and actively manage my time. Learn how to manage stress and get enough sleep.
WOTC: How do you deal with self-doubt?
I try not to compare myself to others, seek professional support and stay with the people who believe in me.
WOTC: What do you look for when you select your staff and how involved are you in the recruitment process?
Candice: I’m very involved. I look for people who are passionate and have a vision. They need to have a lot of patience and a positive attitude.
WOTC: What’s your biggest obstacle so far in the industry?
Candice: There are so many different brands and styles in the industry, but I try to keep my style unique, with all the intricate lace and beading techniques. I always encourage my brides to add a personal touch into the design. Some of them use a piece of lace from their mother’s wedding dress. And I remember one of my clients added her grandmother’s necklace into the dress to make the whole design more special and meaningful.
