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Journey To Wedded Bliss By Caring For Mother Earth

EWedded is Your Exclusive Eco-Luxury Resale Exchange for Everything Wedding!

$5,668
pledged of$28,000 goal
111
0Days Left

Project Description


Our Mission
To preserve the beauty and timelessness of weddings while being kinder to our planet, facilitating economic growth for small businesses, and inspiring wedded bliss through budget-conscious spending.

Our Vision

To be the leading global online resale platform for high-end wedding businesses and consumers.

The Opportunity
EWedded plans to disrupt the $79 billion-dollar wedding industry through a multi-faceted marketplace for everything wedding! The market opportunity is to create the only centralized marketplace for wedding consumers and businesses to buy and sell never used, gently loved, overstock and discontinued luxury goods. EWedded is the online resale community that connects every market segment in the couture wedding market.  This is currently the only wedding portal where newlyweds, the newly engaged, bridal retailers and wholesalers, and wedding professionals can seamlessly conduct business with each other.

 


The Problem
Everyone knows that planning a wedding is time consuming, emotional, stressful, and expensive. Couples will spend on average just over $32,000 to create the perfect wedding experience.  The road the wedded bliss is a reckless one.  The consequences of achieving the picture perfect wedding day includes high consumer debt, excess inventory that overruns bridal businesses, and practices that negatively impact our environment.

 The growth of the industry and the growing obsession Americans have with weddings has put an enormous amount of pressure on couples and wedding professionals to create and deliver the perfect wedding experience.  Everyone involved in the industry is spending more to stay competitive and relevant and the result of this on the industry is excessive products and supplies, which in turn are contributing to a much bigger problem…the pollution and erosion of our planet.

 

 

The Road to EWedded

“Sometimes our darkest moments inspire our brightest ideas.”

– Maya Holihan, EWedded Founder

In 2016 the wedding business I'd spent 13 years growing was in crisis.  I grew exponentially between 2014 to 2016 and was unable to manage the growth. I was overly ambitious and failed to shore up the infrastructure to support my ambitions and was forced to close my doors in August 2017.  Lessons painfully learned!

I acquired three of my competitors in those two years, so when my company became strained, I owned six bridal and formalwear shops.  The acquisitions left me with hundreds of thousands of dollars of discontinued and stagnant merchandise that wasn’t suitable for me to sell on my showroom floors – I was not a discount retailer.  I needed a quick way…a global way, to sell these goods so I could bring in more cash and strengthen my business.

The idea for EWedded was born from this moment of desperation.  Despite a fairly strong capital raise campaign and early-stage product development I couldn’t get to market soon enough to save my company.  So, this is essentially EWedded 2.0!

The inability to effectively manage inventory is one of the biggest reasons why bridal retailers fail!  There are thousands of mom and pop shops across the country that need a global outlet to move inventory faster and increase their margins so they can stay in business and not go out like I did.  EWedded is their solution.

 

 

The Impact of Excessive Products on Consumers, Businesses and our World

We live in a world of excess and weddings are probably the biggest occasions of our lives where we overindulge in products that we’re only going to use for one day!  EWedded provides a trusted and easy to use platform for wedding consumers to buy and sell wedding day wares.  Everyone wins (including our planet)…sellers recoup cash and buyers increase their chances of staying on budget.

Inventory surplus plagues designers, manufacturers and many other wedding professionals.  All of them can use EWedded to solve this problem.

By bringing every segment of the industry together on one platform everyone can do business together.  EWedded is the only multi-faceted B2C, B2B, and C2C marketplace solely for wedding consumers and businesses.  It’s a place to be seen, and not overshadowed by non-wedding products and scattered resources that slow the buying and selling process.

  • We throw 26 billion pounds of clothing into the global landfill every year
  • If everyone bought just one used item instead of a new one this year we would save almost 6 billion pounds of carbon emissions
  • The resale market has more than doubled over the last 10 years and is now a $600 billion-dollar industry
  • 56 million women bought second hand in 2018 up from 44 million in 2017 (almost half of the adult female population in the U.S.)
  • Searches for reused, recycled, or reclaimed wedding items increased 7% on Etsy.com over the last six months.  According to Etsy trend expert Dayna Isom Johnson, shoppers are becoming more aware of the environmental impact of their purchases

 

The Solution

 

 

How It Works

 

 

How We Make Money

 

 

The Dream Team

The founding EWedded team has extensive experience in the luxury goods market, with startups, technology companies, the wedding industry, finance and accounting, and business development and leadership.  Our diverse competencies complement each other and provide a strong foundation for continued growth.  New team and advisory board members are being sourced and interviewed continually to make sure we bring in the right people at the right time to fill the right needs.

 

 

The Timeline

 

 

Industry Overview

Why Crowdfunding?

This may sound crazy, but I’ve never had the luxury of bootstrapping a new business.  Every company I’ve owned was through acquisitions, which came with already established fixed overhead expenses and adopted teams.  Crowdfunding allows the team to exercise the three “C’s” ~ a conservative, calculating execution and management strategy that enables us to maintain control and oversight over initial growth decisions.  We get to have fun with our backers and offer cool rewards as a way of showing our appreciation for you and your belief in our venture.

 

How Will the Funds Be Used?

The majority of the money raised from this campaign will be spent on building the architectural framework and functionality plus front-end design.  The remaining funds will go towards developing a stellar marketing and brand function and team management and development.

 

 

Why Wedding Businesses Should Buy & Sell on EWedded

  1.  We're the only marketplace dedicated to the luxury resale wedding industry
  2.  By carefully curating our sellers and buyers we eliminate the noise and counterfeit activities that take place on other marketplaces
  3. Increases and Steadies Cash Flow
  4. Adds E-Commerce Capabilities to a Bricks-And-Mortar Business
  5. Increases Volume & Visibility – sell more units to a broader audience
  6. Inventory Management – quickly move discontinued and stagnant product
  7. Fosters New Business Relationships – buy and sell amongst trusted companies and wedding professionals
  8. Frees Storage Space for New Products
  9. Brand Separation or Brand Awareness
  10. Upcycling is cool & eco-friendly!
  11. Give Back! – Give a portion of your sales to a charity of your choice
  12. It’s the best solution to move your product faster

 

Why Wedding Consumers should Buy & Sell on EWedded

  1.  More Product Options – EWedded is the only centralized marketplace that brings everyone involved in a wedding to one platform
  2. Credible & Trusted – EWedded is the marketplace of choice for reputable bricks-and-mortar companies to open up shop
  3. More Resources – wedding management tools and access to planning advice
  4. Ease of use – Join. Connect. Buy & Sell.  It’s that Easy!
  5. Community – share ideas and ask questions with consumers and experts
  6. Save Money & Time Without Comprising Style & Quality
  7. Recoup Wedding Day Costs
  8. Upcycling is cool & eco-friendly!
  9. Give Back! – Give a portion of your sales to a charity of your choice
  10. It’s the best solution to move your product faster

Updates

The Campaign FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • If you have specific questions about any rewards or the marketplace please email me at [email protected] and I'll be sure to respond to you and add the information here if I think it can be helpful to all the EWedded contributors.  Thank you.
  • When you pay by Paypal you will see a "tip" added to your contribution.  This is not actually a tip, and does not come to me.  It's the payment that iFundwomen charges (feel free to adjust your contribution accordingly.)

 

 

05/06/2020
Monetary Contribution
$1
C. Kellie Dickerson
04/16/2020
Signed Copy of Happily Altered After
$45
Sophia
04/14/2020
Laying on the Digital L-O-V-E
$20
Amy
04/09/2020
Happily Altered After Podcast Interview
$75
04/08/2020
Monetary Contribution
$1
Ray
03/30/2020
Monetary Contribution
$10
Darryl Moore
03/30/2020
Signed Copy of Happily Altered After
$45
Jen B.
03/30/2020
Sneak-Peak of Happily Altered After
$25
Staci Wright
03/30/2020
Signed Copy of Happily Altered After
$45
J Cowling Design
03/30/2020
Monetary Contribution
$45
Monetary Contribution

Giving from your heart...just because!  Whether you contribute $1 or $10,000 every contribution at any amount is greatly appreciated!  If you're a lover of weddings, or you believe in the mission, vision and viability of EWedded, or you're just a generous human being, I L-O-V-E you and your support!

35 Supporters
Select this reward
15.00 USD
Laying on the Digital L-O-V-E

I'm a huge fan of shout-outs!  When you contribute at this level you'll get a love-filled shoutout on Facebook and in our company newsletter...it's like seeing your name in lights!!

16 Supporters
Select this reward
25.00 USD
Sneak-Peak of Happily Altered After

Did you know that I'm publishing a book in 2020 for brides-to-be?  Happily Altered After is a tell-all tale of gown shopping truths and tips, and you get the first three chapters  sent digitally to you to enjoy before the rest of the world!

80 Left
20 Supporters
Select this reward
45.00 USD
Signed Copy of Happily Altered After

Who doesn't love an autographed copy of a book?  I'll personalize and sign a copy of Happily Altered After just for you.  If you'd like to gift it to a bride-to-be I'll include an additional planning tip or two just for her!

25 Left
25 Supporters
Select this reward
65.00 USD
Toasting Life & Love

Who doesn't love a good toast?  I'll toast you at this contribution level...and you can toast me back with a pair of EWedded branded wine tumblers!

93 Left
7 Supporters
Select this reward
120.00 USD
EWedded Wellness Box

Planning a wedding is exciting and exhilarating, but it can often be daunting and stressful too.  It's important that we take care of ourselves during this very special time.  The reward for this contribution helps keep you mentally and physically in shape.  The EWedded Wellness Box includes lip balm, exercise bands, a water bottle and yoga mat. Namaste!

97 Left
3 Supporters
Select this reward
250.00 USD
Coffee Date With Maya

Coffee talk anyone?  If you know me you know I enjoy the company of others and am super social.  I also love a good coffee break and want nothing more than to get to know the people who are supporting my most prized entrepreneurial endeavor yet...and say "thank you."  This can be a virtual coffee date too...thanks to Zoom!

49 Left
1 Supporter
Select this reward
500.00 USD
Sponsor an EWedded Push Notification

Calling all businesses!  Is your customer the late 20-something male & female....single or getting ready to embark on married life?  Put your business in front of thousands of EWedded couples with a push notification and increase your visibility and customer base!

25 Left
0 Supporters
Select this reward
750.00 USD
Strategic Planning Session with Maya!

Weddings or business?  You take your pick!  Looking for planning advice or a business coaching session? I'm here to help.  I've been an entrepreneur and business executive for over 25 years.  If you know my journey you know it's been mostly successful, but the failures have certainly been the most valuable part of the ride and I have many learned lessons I can share with you no matter what stage of business you're in.

If it's weddings we're talking about there isn't much I don't know about planning and executing a flawless affair.

Let's engage (no pun intended) in a half-day super-charged conversation and establish an artfully crafted strategy for success!

25 Left
0 Supporters
Select this reward
1,000.00 USD
VIP Funder

Let's party like it's 1999.  Receive a VIP invitation to the EWedded launch party and beta launch of the platform...see it and test it out before the rest of the world!  Your feedback will be critical and valuable to making it perfecto!

24 Left
1 Supporter
Select this reward
2,500.00 USD
Honorary EWedded Team Member

Together Everyone Achieves More...and I'm a huge team player!  As an honorary team member you receive the VIP funder perks, and... get to take part in a team strategy call, plus receive the EWedded wine tumblers and wellness box, and will be named as a backer on the Ewedded platform.  BAM!

15 Left
0 Supporters
Select this reward
5,000.00 USD
Sponsor the EWedded Launch Party

Another reward opportunity for businesses.  Woot Woot!  As a sponsor your company name, logo and link to your website will be on the EWedded platform for 1-year.  Your logo will be on all launch party marketing materials, including the step and repeat on the red carpet.  You'll receive four VIP tickets to the party with your VIP area and bar service, plus you'll receive the remaining VIP Funder and Honorary EWedded Team Member perks not already listed!

This reward also gets you a sponsorship on the Happily Altered After Podcast, inclusion in all digital marketing campaigns and social media posts from the time you invest in this reward through the launch party in November (that's nearly 9 months of continuous marketing of your brand).  Our total social media connections is well over 13,000 and growing!

10 Left
0 Supporters
Select this reward
15,000.00 USD
It's An EWedded Wedding for 75 Guests!

Want a wedding valued at $30K for just $15K?  Um...yes, please!  Here are the details:

Couple-To-Be shops in style and without spending a penny!  Maya will roll out the red carpet, including limo transportation, treats, sweets and lunch for you and four of your guests as you shop the very best in wedding attire, compliments of EWedded!

Venue & beverages provided by O'Connor Brewing Company (Norfolk, VA)

Rehearsal Dinner at Mermaid Winery (Norfolk, VA)

Night before & night of the wedding VIP stay at the Glass Light Hotel & Gallery (downtown Norfolk)

Brides Make-Up ~ Makeup By Candice (if applicable)

Brides Hair ~  Al Kelly, Alfred Kelly Salon (if applicable)

Photography ~ Keith Cephus Photography

Catering ~ Sweetwater Cuisine

Wedding Florals & Design ~ Isha Foss Design

Wedding Invitations ~ Fireplug Designs

Wedding Cake or Desserts ~ Hummingbird Macaron and Sweets

Wedding DJ services ~ Exclusive Entertainment (DJ Julian Rivera)

Day of Wedding Coordination ~ Simply Perfect Events

Officiant ~ Pastor Preston Hocker

*specific terms and conditions apply with each company and signed contracts will be required*

*Wedding must take place on a weekday in either Nov., Dec., 2020/21 or January - April 2021* (certain holiday dates not available)

*Questions? email [email protected]

1 Left
0 Supporters
Select this reward

About the Entrepreneur

Chesapeake, VA
Created 1 Campaign
Tech

Rewards

Monetary Contribution

Giving from your heart...just because!  Whether you contribute $1 or $10,000 every contribution at any amount is greatly appreciated!  If you're a lover of weddings, or you believe in the mission, vision and viability of EWedded, or you're just a generous human being, I L-O-V-E you and your support!

35 Supporters
Select this reward
15.00 USD
Laying on the Digital L-O-V-E

I'm a huge fan of shout-outs!  When you contribute at this level you'll get a love-filled shoutout on Facebook and in our company newsletter...it's like seeing your name in lights!!

16 Supporters
Select this reward
25.00 USD
Sneak-Peak of Happily Altered After

Did you know that I'm publishing a book in 2020 for brides-to-be?  Happily Altered After is a tell-all tale of gown shopping truths and tips, and you get the first three chapters  sent digitally to you to enjoy before the rest of the world!

80 Left
20 Supporters
Select this reward
45.00 USD
Signed Copy of Happily Altered After

Who doesn't love an autographed copy of a book?  I'll personalize and sign a copy of Happily Altered After just for you.  If you'd like to gift it to a bride-to-be I'll include an additional planning tip or two just for her!

25 Left
25 Supporters
Select this reward
65.00 USD
Toasting Life & Love

Who doesn't love a good toast?  I'll toast you at this contribution level...and you can toast me back with a pair of EWedded branded wine tumblers!

93 Left
7 Supporters
Select this reward
120.00 USD
EWedded Wellness Box

Planning a wedding is exciting and exhilarating, but it can often be daunting and stressful too.  It's important that we take care of ourselves during this very special time.  The reward for this contribution helps keep you mentally and physically in shape.  The EWedded Wellness Box includes lip balm, exercise bands, a water bottle and yoga mat. Namaste!

97 Left
3 Supporters
Select this reward
250.00 USD
Coffee Date With Maya

Coffee talk anyone?  If you know me you know I enjoy the company of others and am super social.  I also love a good coffee break and want nothing more than to get to know the people who are supporting my most prized entrepreneurial endeavor yet...and say "thank you."  This can be a virtual coffee date too...thanks to Zoom!

49 Left
1 Supporter
Select this reward
500.00 USD
Sponsor an EWedded Push Notification

Calling all businesses!  Is your customer the late 20-something male & female....single or getting ready to embark on married life?  Put your business in front of thousands of EWedded couples with a push notification and increase your visibility and customer base!

25 Left
0 Supporters
Select this reward
750.00 USD
Strategic Planning Session with Maya!

Weddings or business?  You take your pick!  Looking for planning advice or a business coaching session? I'm here to help.  I've been an entrepreneur and business executive for over 25 years.  If you know my journey you know it's been mostly successful, but the failures have certainly been the most valuable part of the ride and I have many learned lessons I can share with you no matter what stage of business you're in.

If it's weddings we're talking about there isn't much I don't know about planning and executing a flawless affair.

Let's engage (no pun intended) in a half-day super-charged conversation and establish an artfully crafted strategy for success!

25 Left
0 Supporters
Select this reward
1,000.00 USD
VIP Funder

Let's party like it's 1999.  Receive a VIP invitation to the EWedded launch party and beta launch of the platform...see it and test it out before the rest of the world!  Your feedback will be critical and valuable to making it perfecto!

24 Left
1 Supporter
Select this reward
2,500.00 USD
Honorary EWedded Team Member

Together Everyone Achieves More...and I'm a huge team player!  As an honorary team member you receive the VIP funder perks, and... get to take part in a team strategy call, plus receive the EWedded wine tumblers and wellness box, and will be named as a backer on the Ewedded platform.  BAM!

15 Left
0 Supporters
Select this reward
5,000.00 USD
Sponsor the EWedded Launch Party

Another reward opportunity for businesses.  Woot Woot!  As a sponsor your company name, logo and link to your website will be on the EWedded platform for 1-year.  Your logo will be on all launch party marketing materials, including the step and repeat on the red carpet.  You'll receive four VIP tickets to the party with your VIP area and bar service, plus you'll receive the remaining VIP Funder and Honorary EWedded Team Member perks not already listed!

This reward also gets you a sponsorship on the Happily Altered After Podcast, inclusion in all digital marketing campaigns and social media posts from the time you invest in this reward through the launch party in November (that's nearly 9 months of continuous marketing of your brand).  Our total social media connections is well over 13,000 and growing!

10 Left
0 Supporters
Select this reward
15,000.00 USD
It's An EWedded Wedding for 75 Guests!

Want a wedding valued at $30K for just $15K?  Um...yes, please!  Here are the details:

Couple-To-Be shops in style and without spending a penny!  Maya will roll out the red carpet, including limo transportation, treats, sweets and lunch for you and four of your guests as you shop the very best in wedding attire, compliments of EWedded!

Venue & beverages provided by O'Connor Brewing Company (Norfolk, VA)

Rehearsal Dinner at Mermaid Winery (Norfolk, VA)

Night before & night of the wedding VIP stay at the Glass Light Hotel & Gallery (downtown Norfolk)

Brides Make-Up ~ Makeup By Candice (if applicable)

Brides Hair ~  Al Kelly, Alfred Kelly Salon (if applicable)

Photography ~ Keith Cephus Photography

Catering ~ Sweetwater Cuisine

Wedding Florals & Design ~ Isha Foss Design

Wedding Invitations ~ Fireplug Designs

Wedding Cake or Desserts ~ Hummingbird Macaron and Sweets

Wedding DJ services ~ Exclusive Entertainment (DJ Julian Rivera)

Day of Wedding Coordination ~ Simply Perfect Events

Officiant ~ Pastor Preston Hocker

*specific terms and conditions apply with each company and signed contracts will be required*

*Wedding must take place on a weekday in either Nov., Dec., 2020/21 or January - April 2021* (certain holiday dates not available)

*Questions? email [email protected]

1 Left
0 Supporters
Select this reward