Gabrielle Swimwear
GABRIELLE KOOL
START-UP COSTS: ‘I used my savings to get things started; it covered all of my basic needs. From the very beginning, I was involved in every single aspect of my business, which also saved on costs. I did everything from building a website to making, marketing and selling the product.’
TURNOVER: ‘My current turnover has increased dramatically from when I started, maybe by 500%. I still work with someone I’ve been with for years – she works from home and employs about five women and helps with smaller production. I also have two assistants who help me with online orders and markets – so between six and eight employees now work alongside me.’
Gabrielle was raised to share her dad’s love of the sea and her mom’s love of nature, both of which fed into her passion for the fashion industry. She has made a career of designing and producing contemporary swimwear, and has been
