249: Landing a $12K Client at MAGIC: The Trade Show Networking Strategy That Worked

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Fashion Designers Get Paid: Build Your Fashion Career On Your Own Terms

Sew Heidi

287 episodes

6 days ago

This is a show for burnt-out fashion designers (and TDs, PDs, patternmakers, textile designer and beyond) who want more flexibility in their career while still doing work they love. You'll learn how to build a freelance fashion business, so you can do the work you love on your own terms. Freelancing in fashion is the only way to get freedom in your day (instead of being tied to a desk). Whether you want to earn extra money on the side, fund your fashion brand, or replace your salary, the FDGP podcast will help you get there. Listen in for actionable tips and strategies to kickstart or grow your career as a freelance fashion designer, build your confidence, and create the life you want. Hosted by $100k+ fashion freelancer Sew Heidi, the show features interviews and strategy sessions with successful freelance fashion designers from around the world who've ditched toxic fashion jobs and taken control of their own destinies. This is the only place to get REAL insights from REAL freelancers who have built REAL careers on their own terms. (Formerly the Successful Fashion Freelancer podcast.)

All content for Fashion Designers Get Paid: Build Your Fashion Career On Your Own Terms is the property of Sew Heidi and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.

Fashion & Beauty

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Education

249: Landing a $12K Client at MAGIC: The Trade Show Networking Strategy That Worked

Fashion Designers Get Paid: Build Your Fashion Career On Your Own Terms

48 minutes

8 months ago

249: Landing a $12K Client at MAGIC: The Trade Show Networking Strategy That Worked

From Nervous to Thriving: Discover how Alina Sanchez-Lopez transformed trade show nerves into a $12,000 freelance triumph!

Ever walked into a trade show feeling completely out of place, unsure of how to approach potential clients? That was Alina—until a few key mindset shifts and strategic moves changed everything. A casual chat at Magic turned into a game-changing $12K project, reigniting her passion for design and proving that in-person networking can lead to massive freelance success.

In this episode, Alina pulls back the curtain on how she overcame the initial awkwardness, what she said to grab a brand’s attention, and the smart strategies that helped her stand out in a sea of fashion pros. She also shares how she navigated the leap from corporate burnout to freelance freedom, creating a career that gives her both flexibility and fulfillment. Whether you’re gearing up for your first trade show or looking to refine your networking skills, this conversation is packed with insights you can apply right away.

If you’re new to freelancing or have been at it for a while, click play now to learn how to confidently network at trade shows and turn conversations into paid design work!

About Alina:
Alina is a Freelance Designer & Consultant dedicated to helping small brands discover their unique identity, transform ideas into standout designs, and create fashion with purpose. Specializing in eco-conscious activewear and streetwear, she combines innovative design, technical expertise, and a passion for sustainability to bring bold ideas to life. Her mission is to empower clients to build impactful and distinctive fashion lines that inspire and resonate.

Connect with Alina:
Visit her website
Email her at: alina.sanlop94@gmail.com
Follow on Instagram
Connect on LinkedIn

Sick of being tied to a desk and want more freedom in your day, snag my free training: How to Freelance in Fashion (even if you're terrified you don't have all the answers) by clicking here.