We discovered the Sonday The Label brand recently, and we love the company’s mandate to make the world a better place for pregnant women looking for clothes that are both trendy and comfortable. The founder of the label said that she was disappointed not to find items that meet her needs during her pregnancy, and that’s what inspired her to get started with Sonday The Label. Katie Callery answers our #WomenInspiringWomen questions.
What inspired you to start your own business?
I was the customer experiencing the problem. During my first pregnancy I was trying to find maternity clothes that were stylish, comfortable, and functional. It felt like the trendiest items were the highest priced items, while the more affordable options were too floral-y, itchy or out of style. The industry felt dated. Women live dynamic lives and want clothing that lets them feel like themselves, while also providing that thoughtful element of comfort and movement for a growing bump.
I really believe women deserve to have better options available during their motherhood journey, and to feel comfortable and confident along the way. So we decided to create a contemporary line of maternity wear that is made for a modern motherhood, and that hits on those key marks!
What differentiates your brand/product from the rest?
Sonday The Label is a brand that women can see themselves in. Every piece we design has to pass three tests – is the fabric soft/comfortable? Does the design adapt to fit your body at every stage and trimester? Would you wear this if you weren’t expecting/nursing?
We want to offer women a collection of essentials that are both beautiful and thoughtful. If you’re nursing in the middle of the night, you need sleepwear that is breathable, comfortable, and enables easy access for feeding. We are designing high quality pieces that you can have for the long haul that seamlessly integrate into your wardrobe.
Do you have a life motto?
Everyone can (and will) give you very well-meaning advice; ultimately you need to go with your gut.
Tell us about the reality of your industry.
We proudly design and make all of our garments ethically in Toronto, Canada, at a woman-owned and run production studio. As we know, local production means higher costs, however, we would not have it any other way.
Having our production studios right here in Toronto allows for transparency in our manufacturing process (we produce our garments within 30km of our HQ), and the studios we work with (who primarily employ women), pay them a standard, living wage. It also allows us to drop by the studios, and get to know the talented individuals making our clothing.
What’s the one product that’s always in your purse?
Some sort of snack bar – usually for my son!
What is a fact about you that would surprise others?
I am a full-fledged introvert 🙂
What changes concerning women would you like to see in 2022?
Women are coming out of a period of extreme uncertainty and stress post pandemic, after two years of lockdowns, home-working and home-schooling. Industries that employ women primarily (hospitality, travel) were also the hardest hit. It changed how we work and live.
As work/life gets redefined in 2022 and beyond, I would love to see employers and governments design and implement more flexible policies that enable mothers and parents to better balance their responsibilities and lives in and outside the office.
What advice would you like to give to today’s women?
You don’t have to be overqualified to apply. We often think we need to tick all the boxes before taking the next step. But if you really want something, trust that your drive and desire to do something new will help you get there. Discomfort is temporary – growth is everlasting.
