By Maddisyn Blue
October, 2024
Title Nine: Empowering Women Entrepreneurs and Outdoor Leaders Since 1989
Fostering meaningful collaborations with woman-owned businesses
In our recent interview with Lisa Gilliland, the community manager from Title Nine, we explored her experience bringing on ToughCutie as a new vendor following the Title Nine Pitchfest competition.
About Title Nine
Since 1989, Title Nine has proudly operated as a small, woman-run and owned company in Northern California. Without the backing of large corporations or external investors, they’ve relied on the support of their community and customers to grow their team to around 300. In every pursuit, Title Nine champions the idea of women taking ownership, risks, and leadership roles.
About Pitchfest
The T9 Pitchfest Outdoor Edition is a pitch competition open to up and coming women-led entrepreneurs in the outdoor industry. The event combines mentorship with competition as the organizers unite
to educate and gain insights from women entrepreneurs. Their aim is to cultivate a community
of athletic women and contribute to the advancement of women leaders and their businesses.
Winners of the event receive support and increased brand visibility from Title Nine for the
following year. This two-day event provides a platform for women to share their stories, pitch
their products, and become part of the Movers & Makers community.
In 2019, our founder competed in the Pitchfest competition and won, becoming a Mover and Maker and earnng placement on Title Nine's retail shelves.
Can you share some retail wins or successes you've experienced with ToughCutie?
From our planning team, I know that ToughCutie's product absolutely took off on us, and we've had to place several chase orders! Their team is super responsive and quick to turn around orders.
Personally, growing up I was that kid who would tear my shoes off right after my mom finished putting them on, if that darn "toe seem" wasn't perfectly placed. Little did I know I'd been waiting my entire life for Tough Cutie! I rush to get to laundry day so that I can get my everyday ankle socks back in rotation, never needing to fear that awful toe seem again!
In your opinion, what unique value do small women owned outdoor brands bring to the outdoor industry?
Small, women owned brands are pivotal in the growth of women's space in the outdoors. In my experience, they bring a fresh perspective to the way we approach our relationship with the outdoors - with a focus on inclusivity, sustainability, and community building. As genuine gear users, they offer innovative designs specifically tailored to the needs of women. By designing gear that moves with our bodies, they foster a sense of empowerment and representation within the outdoor community.
Have you noticed any trends or shifts in consumer behavior towards supporting women-owned businesses in the outdoor industry? Which ones are you excited about?
Absolutely! I have noticed more people, especially younger women, are actively seeking out brands that align with their values. Consumers are starting to recognize the importance of their shopping dollars and the impact that they have. Social media has played a significant role in amplifying the voices of women-owned outdoor brands, and fostering a sense of connection and support among consumers. Additionally, initiatives promoting women-owned businesses, such as Women Led Wednesday, have encouraged conscious consumerism within the outdoor community.
What advice would you give to other retailers looking to collaborate with woman-owned businesses in the outdoor space?
Do it! By fostering meaningful collaborations with woman-owned businesses, retailers can contribute to a more inclusive and diverse outdoor industry, while also appealing to a growing segment of conscious consumers. I highly recommend retailers take the time to research the many incredible women-owned brands, to find ones that align with your values and audience. Being open to supporting one another will inevitably build a more inclusive outdoors for all - let's continue to elevate women's voices and empower all women to get outside!
Awesome reviews (all 5 stars!) on Title Nine's Website!
I learned about Tough Cutie under the "Women Owned" section of the Title Nine website and fell in love with the product and story. Tried one pair for myself, and came back to get more as gifts. Not too thin or thick, not too loose or tight, not too low or high, darn near close to perfect. I wear a women's 8 with a regular to narrow foot. Haven't tested them in warmer temperatures, for winter hikes in New England they've kept me warm and dry every time.
I used the socks several times this winter to go hiking, they are very soft and comfortable, I love them! They have the right thickness to fit in my hiking shoes. I wear shoe size 10 and L is the right size for me. They kept my feet warm even when I was hiking on snowy trails.
Best wool socks ever - I think of myself as a sock snob and these ate great. Keeps my feet so warm and comfortable all day long.
Interesting links
Instagram Reel feature: https://www.instagram.com/reel/CT5mG8yJ6Ti/
Our Fourth Annual T9 Pitchfest Outdoor Edition: https://www.instagram.com/p/CsYq8BWuGWf/?hl=en&img_index=1
Pitchfest Outdoor 2021 Finalists: Our Starting Nine: http://www.timeoutwithtitlenine.com/pitchfest/pitchfest-outdoor-2021-finalists-our-starting-nine/
About Glacier National Park Conservancy
A Nonprofit National Park Partner
The Glacier National Park Conservancy is the official non-profit fundraising partner of Glacier National Park. Their mission is to preserve and protect Glacier National Park for future generations.Glacier National Park Conservancy is a 501(c)3. You can find the park store at Belton Train Station12544 US-2, West Glacier, MT 59936.
The Park Store
In 2013, the Glacier National Park Fund and the Glacier Natural History Association merged to form the Glacier National Park Conservancy with the aim of bolstering annual support for Glacier National Park. The Fund, established in 1999, focused on preserving the park's natural beauty and cultural heritage through private philanthropy, while the Association, formed in 1941, supported education and interpretation through merchandise sales. Since the merger, the Conservancy has become the official fundraising partner for Glacier National Park.
Try a Shoe with More Top Coverage
The more coverage you have on the top of your feet, the better. Sometimes, you can wear high heels all day and they don’t bother your feet as much. In the summer, you can try something with an ankle strap or a large wide strap over the top. If you are worried about blisters and friction, you might want to try something that covers more of the top of your foot.
Opt for Platform Heels
Platform heels are more comfortable than single-sole heels because the actual heel is shorter than the heel height. The platform also reduces the impact of your feet touching the ground, reducing discomfort. However, thicker platform heels can cause your foot to wobble and your ankle to snap, especially if the platform is very thick and the heel is stiletto. The shoe should be a good ratio between a thick platform and a fitting heel.
Want to carry ToughCutie in your stores? Get in touch!
ToughCutie helped Lloyd and Garage Grown Gear achieve their sales goals and support the store's mission. If you're interested in placing ToughCutie in your store, get in touch today!