Pascale Falardeau of Rouge Cerise always knew she wanted to work with her hands. She translated this to her love of fashion and textiles. Along the way, she discovered her love for leather and creating high-quality and sustainable pieces. We connected with her to learn more.
What is your business called and what does it do?
My company is called Rouge Cerise and I sell fashion leather goods accessories that incorporate textiles.
What made you want to do this work?
I always knew I wanted to work with my hands and I loved creating things. After studying fashion design, I turned to leather goods for their precision and attention to detail, and I loved it. After a few years, I returned to my love of textiles and reintegrated them into my creations.
What problem did you want to solve with the business?
I want to offer accessories that are different from what you can find on the market. They are of higher quality, thanks to the materials used and the manufacturing techniques. They are also accessories that are a little out of the ordinary in terms of the colours and patterns I choose.
Who are your clientele/demographics?
I sell mainly in Canada at the moment. The vast majority of my customers are women. There’s no specific age range, it’s more a matter of individual taste.
How does your business make money? How does it work?
I sell at artisan markets, mainly in Montreal and Ontario at the moment. Although everything is designed and made in Montreal, online sales also allow me to sell my accessories across Canada.
Where in the city can we find your profession?
My workshop is located in the heart of the island, in the Saint-Michel district.
What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.
I put a lot of emphasis on the quality of the workmanship, so I’m very happy when a customer asks me how they’re made. My accessories are more like leather goods incorporating textiles than simple sewing. Several stages of gluing and finishing add to their strength and longevity. I want them to stay beautiful for a long time and age well, and that’s also important for customers.
What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?
The best part is the creative process and making, solving design problems on prototypes and setting up production. I love all the manual work. The worst part is the marketing because it’s not natural for me and it exhausts me, even though I love meeting people.
What is your favourite joke about your own profession?
When a customer tells me she doesn’t need a new handbag, it makes me laugh. I tell them she’s talking to the wrong person. I own a handbag of every new design I create, and I have no intention of stopping!
Where can we follow you?
Website | Instagram | Facebook
PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?
Local fashion companies! Research a few brands you like, learn about them, discover their values and stay loyal. Treat yourself to their creations, give them as gifts and share your discoveries. The local fashion world is a tough one, especially these days, and a loyal customer base is stability for any small business.
