Smash + Tess started with the goal of creating cute and comfy loungewear for bodies of all sizes. Ashley and Teresa Freeborn, the mother-daughter duo behind Smash + Tess, wanted to slow the fashion cycles and offer clothes for “everywear.” Their small batch productions are made from community-led designs. For example, current top-selling Smash + Tess pieces are design collaborations with Canadian celebs like Jillian Harris or Sarah Landry (@birdspapaya). We spoke with Ashley, Co-Founder and CEO, to learn more about this women-owned clothing company.
What is your business called and what does it do?
Smash + Tess – Clothing made by women, for women in small batch production. Designed to be comfortable, cute and inclusive, we offer sizes 2XS – 4X in styles that will transition through all the seasons of womanhood!
What made you want to do this work?
I’ve always been inspired by fashion, but knew that the industry felt elitist and exclusive. We started Smash + Tess because we wanted to create clothing that made women feel good and foster a community that celebrated them for who they are, not how they look. Our mission from the beginning has been to empower women to live big lives with ease and confidence!
What problem did you want to solve with the business?
I want more people to discover the magic of wearing clothes that not only make you look good, but make you feel good! We want to spread the word of Smash + Tess and bring in new customers to experience our inclusive product line-up and our supportive online community!
Who are your clientele/demographics?
Women age 25-44 is our largest demo.
How does your business make money? How does it work?
We are an ecommerce-led brand, selling and shipping our product all over the world. We also have a wholesale program that brings our styles into brick-and-mortar stores across Canada.
Where in the city can we find your profession?
Online at smashtess.com!
What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.
“Why should shop Smash + Tess over another brand?”
When you shop with Smash + Tess, you’re supporting a women-owned, women-run team that believes in slowing down the fashion cycle with small batch production and high quality, size-inclusive designs! All of our products are tried and tested by our team to ensure they will be both functional and fashionable for years to come!
What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?
The best part is being the hype girl! I love hyping up our customers, making them feel beautiful, supported, considered, celebrated. It’s why I do what I do! The worst part? I would say finance. But I’m lucky to have my mama, and business partner, who handles a lot of that side of the business!
What is your favourite joke about your own profession?
Ok ok… dad joke? Why did the t-shirt break up with the jeans? It was tired of being in a tight relationship. *ps. we have a romper for that!
Where can we follow you?
PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?
I love Mint Cleaning. I’m obsessed with their products, their mission, and their vibe.
