Debbie Meraram is the creative force behind the Caymanian fashion and art brand Chasing The Sun. The company which was started in 2019 continues to evolve and grow. Yello had a chance to chat with Debbie about her company, her love for fashion and accessories and the Cayman Islands.

Describe yourself using three words.

Entrepreneur, designer, innovator.

Tell us about your background.

I grew up in Canada with Caribbean roots. I studied economics and business in university and later completed my master’s degree in economics. Initially, my career took a more practical direction as I utilised my degree to pursue various opportunities in the government and private sector. About seven years into my career, I realised that I was unhappy with the path I was on and a change was needed. I decided to go back to school and study fashion merchandising and design, which I had been passionate about since childhood. After graduating, I landed my first job in fashion and merchandising at The Shopping Channel. It was a stepping-stone to a later opportunity at the buying office of a major department store retailer. As luck would have it and a little help from the universe, a few years later, I connected with a local fashion designer from Cayman and moved here in 2016 and began my journey to what has eventually evolved to doing what I love.

When did you first become interested in fashion and accessories?

Fashion has always been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. Back when I was a kid, I don’t think the term was around, but my mom was what one would call a fashionista in today’s terms. She was a large influence in my life as a child and even today as an adult. She is a designer, a seamstress, an entrepreneur and an incredible mom with an unbelievable work ethic. She played a huge role in my life and my interest in fashion and design growing up.

Did you always want to own your own business?

This was more of an evolution over the years. As I got older and gained more life experiences, I realised that owning a business would allow me to blend my education in business along with my love of fashion and my creative side. I came from a history of family members that were entrepreneurial and realised how much I love the idea of building and growing a business. I knew that it wasn’t going to be easy, but the idea that you could have the independence to chart your own destiny and do something that you love, that you could call your own, was extremely appealing to me.

What is Chasing The Sun Cayman?

Chasing The Sun Cayman is a brand under our parent company, All About Cayman Ltd.  At the core, it is a fashion and accessory company with a focus on art and design. Cayman is a beautiful place to live with no shortage of inspiration around us. We try to tailor what we offer by integrating the spirit of the island in making merchandise that we love. Our sea fan and bougainvillea jewellery collection made of materials right here in Cayman, the versatility of the beach cover up line, along with our fashion art classes, all provide customers with unique elements that stands out.

 Where do you get inspirations for your designs?

I gather inspiration from everything: the natural surroundings in Cayman to seeing the latest creations by my favourite fashion and accessory designers. Things like looking at colour palettes, textile patterns and browsing magazines to photography. Just about anything that I find unique, interesting or has a creative element to it.

 What were the challenges you faced when starting the business? How did you overcome them?

Creating a clear and distinctive brand identity. Dealing with a highly competitive industry, you have to find a way to differentiate yourself and offer something interesting. I started from a place of what I love, fashion and art and tried to create items that had an element of customisation. I love being innovative and adapting ideas/concept to make it unique to the brand.

Tell us about the fashion art classes.

I’m proud to say that the fashion art class is a unique and innovative experience. It allows you to paint and design a piece of canvas that will ultimately be sewn into a clutch. The great thing about the clutch classes is that it’s your own design, you make it to suit your style and personality. No two clutches are the same, they are all so unique and beautifully designed by those who attend the class. The ability to create your own wearable art that includes an amazing dinner and wine experience is definitely an unforgettable evening. You can come alone and mingle or bring a group of girlfriends and enjoy a really great night out. You don’t have to have any experience or be an artist of any kind to attend. Anyone can have a fabulous time as we have plenty of support and guidance along with stencils that make the whole experience relaxing and fun.

 Who are your typical clients? How do they find you?

The great thing about this class is that it covers a wide demographic. It has included ladies in their 20s, all the way up to their 70s. We have also received interest from gentlemen wanting to paint a clutch for their wives or girlfriends. And now, we are also launching our first mother-daughter class and are currently booking private clutch parties for bridal and baby showers as well as corporate events. Word of mouth has been great thus far, but we can also be found on Instagram, Facebook and our website www.chasingthesuncayman.com.

What are your plans for the next 12-18 months?

Our plan is to expand our fashion and jewellery collection and develop some new fashion art classes. We are currently in the process of designing a sterling silver jewellery collection that will have an interesting element of Cayman incorporated in the design. I am super excited about this and can’t wait to launch this in the coming months. We are also in the process of adding to our clothing line. Our current collection of beach cover ups can also be worn as a blouse and can easily be turned into an evening out piece. I love the idea of multi-functional fashion and working on designing more pieces like this. Of course, the clutch creation classes have been amazing, and we are currently in the development stages of our next fashion art class. Lots of exciting things are happening, and I am really looking forward to what’s ahead.   

What advice would you give aspiring Caribbean creatives?

First, I would say just start. Sometimes we get wrapped up in the planning and organising, and we forget the doing aspect. Things evolve when you start, and you find ways to improve and make it better. Second, I would say listen to the market and talk to customers. They have valuable insight and will help give you direction. You may have a great idea, but if you don’t have people to buy into it, then you don’t have a viable business. Third, it takes time and patience (something I seem to struggle with too), be prepared for the long haul. I definitely believe in the motto that success happens when preparation meets opportunity. Nothing happens overnight.

What do you love about the Cayman Islands?

Coming from a country that has winter for what seems like eight months of the year, I would definitely say the weather. But more than that, I think it’s a place that is not only beautiful but filled with opportunities. I love the idea that you can meet so many people from all over the world on an island the size of a small town. It also reminds me and helps me keep in touch with my Caribbean heritage which makes it feel like home.

What do you enjoy doing on your days off?

I rarely get an entire day off, but I do enjoy downtimes that allow me to give my mind a break. The gym has been a huge part of my life growing up and helps with my mindset. I enjoy time with family and friends, and of course, a day at the beach is always a great stress reliever. 

What is your philosophy/approach to life?

Life is a balance. Surround yourself doing what you love and live in the moment.

You can find out more about Chasing the Sun Cayman on their website or connect with them on Facebook.