We had the good fortune of connecting with Chedie Raymundo and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chedie, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Oh man! Rome wasn’t built in a day and starting a business is indeed a long process. Back in 2018, I saw people online talk about launching their store, dropshipping, becoming an affiliate, etc. I was also fortunate to get acquainted with entrepreneurs and I was fascinated with the possibility that I too can do it. I’m the type of person who needs to see and experience things that will spark an inspiration so in that same year, I decided to register for Magic Trade Show in Las Vegas to see what’s possible, despite not having a clear plan. At the trade show, they were asking me for a business license which i didn’t have that time, so in 2019, I applied for a business entity as a way of getting my ducks in a row. It was a way to push me towards the direction of becoming my own boss.

Originally, I explored creating my own workout fashion brand and connected with some exhibitors at Magic Las Vegas. I also thought about importing natural supplements from the Philippines (where I grew up) and I also explored creating my own lip balm. I quickly learned that the quantities needed to place an order were huge and would require a big investment which I was not ready to do, so I took a step back. My day job and the pandemic also affected the pace of solidifying and launching a business.

Fast forward to 2023, my job contract that time wasn’t renewed. I planned to take a break from being employed. I gave up my apartment, saved enough money so I can travel and figure out the next chapter of my life. I took advantage of owning my time and knew it was the right moment to go back to the idea of entrepreneurship.

In the past 12 years, I found myself attending music festival circuits and being influenced by sustainable living. I latched on to these interests and was thinking of products I can offer to music festival goers. One day I had a light bulb moment and thought… “eco-friendly festival essentials”! The festival fashion industry is wasteful. Throughout the years, I’ve accumulated a bunch of things with poor quality, that I only used once as outfits and accessories. The idea of offering products that are essential (buzz word from 2020), cool, something that you can keep in your closet which can also be used on other occasions and sustainable on top of that was great. That’s it! That’s my business!

So what are these products? One thing about me is that I’m not a designer (at least not yet). I listed down items that people normally wear at festivals then I researched for brands that had eco-friendly products and asked if they were willing to partner with me. I received favorable responses and finally on December 4, 2023, I launched my very first e-commerce store, chedriel.com [ched-ri-YEL]. Not to be vain but I love my name that my mom gave me. It’s quite unique!

It’s only been a few months since the e-store went live. I’m learning a lot, not just about running the business but also about myself. I find this to be a creative endeavor which can be expanded to other things. I’m also building relationships with my partners by being another platform that carries their brands. I had my first product photo shoot with some friends which was fun and easy. I’m enjoying this time of building my brand, learning marketing skills and finding/creating new products to offer. The story is being written and I’m excited for the path ahead.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
LA/Hollywood is a lifestyle in my opinion. The beach is my go-to, starting in Santa Monica and either driving north to Malibu or south to Laguna Beach, walking or biking along the coast or just laying on the sand or the grassy areas. Sunset hike at Will Rogers State Park is a must where you can see a lovely view of the ocean and the city landscape. It’s enjoyable for non-hikers. Kayaking, stand up paddleboarding or jet skiing in Dana Point are so much fun! For those who are into museums and art, The Getty Villa in Pacific Palisades and the annual Pageant of the Masters that happen during the summer art festivals in Laguna Beach are fun experiences!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’m so thankful for my sisters Camille and Corrinne. They have been my sounding board, discussing all the ideas that ever crossed my mind. They ask me questions, encourage me to move forward and go for it. My parents who never flinched when I told them what I was going to do and just let me do my thing. Also grateful for Tita Lizette and Tita Carleen for giving me financial tips and other valuable life lessons. Thankful for friends and relatives who were my first customers, product models and brand promoters.

Website: chedriel.com

Instagram: @chedriel

Other: tiktok: @chedriel.com email: hello@chedriel.com

Image Credits
chedriel

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