Meet Lisa Maffia

September 2, 2010 in Fashion

CEO
House of Maffia

Based in London, House of Maffia is an online womenswear fashion boutique founded by music artist Lisa Maffia.

House of Maffia is home to Lisa’s own brand Lei Chels and provides a platform for up and coming talent and established designers to showcase their designs, helping the next generation of fashion designers launch careers in the industry.

Why did you decide to start House of Maffia?
The company was founded in 2009. I decided to open my own online fashion house because I found there were not enough platforms available for new creative designers to showcase their designs.

I also love clothes and love to be different. House of Maffia is a place you will find a one-off outfit exclusively for you.

You’re known here in the UK for your music career, how does it feel to switch gears?
Very strange! I’m not very well known in the fashion industry, so when all these very important fashion shows come up, I have to wait in line for a ticket like everyone else! I like the fashion industry but it’s a lot harder than the music industry.

What are the highlights of running your own business?
Everything you work towards is your own creative idea! It’s great to see your vision work out perfectly. It’s a great feeling to say “I did that!”

What is the hardest part of running your own business?
Timing, everything in every business runs on time! What you achieve at the end of a successful business is all worth it, but the lows, when things go wrong, can sometimes be stressful. The key for me is to find a team you trust and have a plan to follow.

What has been your biggest triumph to date?
My press launch at the Sanctum Soho Hotel was amazing, everyone on my team pulled together and we had a wonderful, successful day!

What advice would you give to someone who is considering starting a fashion business?
Research, research, research! It’s all about educating yourself on the target audience you wish to sell to.

What are your goals for House of Maffia?
I have two huge goals, to have my very own boutique on the high street and to establish the next big, previously unknown, designer by launching their collection at the House of Maffia fashion house.

What, or who, inspires and motivates you?
My daughter! Her constant change of style helps me know what’s in next. My team at House of Maffia show me new things every day and www.idolmagazine.co.uk always has someone new covered in their magazine.

For more information on House of Maffia visit the House of Maffia Blog – www.houseofmaffia.wordpress.com, www.houseofmaffia.com launches later this month.

Lisa Maffia was interviewed by Octavia Goredema, founder of the Twenty Ten Club.

The Twenty Ten Club connects, inspires and supports Black female business owners. If you are interested in becoming a member you can find out more here.