Kristin from The Vanguard PR recently contacted me to let me know about an exciting new program her company is offering for emerging indie designers. The Bright Eyes Designer Outreach Program, aka BEDOP, is explained best by Kristin in the interview below, but it sounds like an amazing chance for indie artists to learn some valuable PR skills they can use to get the word out about their own lines. Check it out:
In a nutshell, what is the BEDOP program?
The BEDOP program is mentorship program where we take one designer and teach them all about the ins and outs of the world of pr. Each season, The Vanguard agency sifts through all of its applications for the BEDOP and hand selects one applicant that we feel fits the vision of a cutting edge designer with focus, determination, a marketable collection, intense knowledge of fashion, and the drive to succeed. The applicants are carefully screened through an interview session with both of our founders to ensure they uphold the standards and make sure there vision is on line with that of our agency. The chosen designer meets with industry experts like brand managers, and special events planners, and creative directors from fashion brands around the country that help to mentor and guide these designers to ensure their collection is operating at its fullest potential and to streamline and help market their collection.
Through this one month journey, they are also learn top secret inside information about the world of pr; everything from how to write a press release to the do’s and don’t of pr to how to pitch your product to different media outlets. Upon graduation from the program, the graduates leave with an immense knowledge of how to effectively target specific areas of the media along with a properly branded image of their product. They also received a graduation package that includes tools like a newly drafted press release for their brand, the experts book on the world of pr, and a database of industry professionals that they can take with them to help pitch their line to and garner press for their line. The program has been extremely effective in helping our BEDOP brands succeed and better understand the world of public relations.
How did the idea for the program come about?
The program really came about from my experiences of reaching out to designers that were very interested in our services, but couldn’t afford it at the time. It was my chance to pay it forward to all of those who I have spoken with who were struggling to buy fabric for next season, much less have to worry about a marketing budget as well. I knew there were those creative visionaries out there who I really wanted to find a way to work with and build their brand. I wanted to build a relationship with these up and coming designers that when they become rich and successful came back to me and said, “Hey, you were here for me and taught me so much when no one else was there and when no one believed in my line.” I love being a mentor and if I can pay along my knowledge and help another fashionite out, then why not? Everyone deserves a chance to shine.
I also felt that designers really need to have a handle on exactly what pr was and how it is so important to garner exposure for your brand. I think that a lot of young designers look at a pr firm’s client list and think they will be able to see the same results. Not true! You have to have a connection with the agency, understand what they can do and should be willing to do for you, and ensure that you are knowledgeable about what you, as a client are entitled to. With the BEDOP program, this is my chance to connect with these designers and make a change.
What kinds of designers are you looking to work with? Is this strictly for fashion designers, or are other indie artists eligible as well?
We support any kind of young, independent emerging artist with a vision that is passionate their brand. I love to meet and connect with anyone that has the same love for fashion, design, and puts their heart and soul into everything that they do. It’s important to place yourself with people that are like minded and successful. These things are contagious!
Who are your personal favorite indie designers & brands?
I really love the line PLASTK. It’s an amazing shoe collection with sex appeal, creativity, and brings to the table a fresh look on design and style in the footwear industry. These guys are very passionate about their collection and you can tell in the quality and aesthetics of their line. Also, Chenny K, an Australian handbag line. All of their bags are genuine creations of art. Amazing pieces!
If you think the BEDOP sounds like an amazing program, be sure to check out all The Vanguard Agency has to offer. Their clients are the cream of the crop in emerging, independent designers to watch.
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