After making its Southeast debut at Surf Expo in January of this year (see profile), a lot has been happening at Float Designs. We caught up with owner Ramona Senese for an update.

Since last we spoke what have been the most major developments for Float?
Ramona Senese: I have designed and added a new print and many new styles to Float's assortment. The new print is named the "Jacaranda Print". The big, beautiful and blooming Jacaranda Trees of Sanibel Island (where Float is based) inspired the big, retro looking florals in this print.

I have added new fabrics including crochet fabrics, solid cottons, and many new details which buyers will be able to preview at the September show.

In addition Float has received some new and exciting national press such as placements in People Stylewatch Magazine, Lucky Magazine, and Nest Magazine.

How has your distribution changed or expanded over the past year?
Since Float's relocation to Sanibel Island, I have opened up many new accounts in Florida in places such as Sanibel, Fort Lauderdale, and the Keys. The Florida market is a huge opportunity for Float's continued expansion and being in Florida -- which has a year round resort wear season -- has proved very opportunistic for new business and the perfect new home for Float!

I hope to connect with more Florida buyers at this year's September show as well as buyers from upscale resort areas in the south such as Kiwawah Island, Hilton Head, Charleston, and Savannah.

What product has you and your company most excited heading into the September 2008 Surf Expo?
I am very excited about our new Intracoastal Tunic which features our new print "Jacaranda". This tunic is long enough to be worn over a bathing suit without bottoms or you can wear this tunic out to a beach dinner paired with white pants or jeans. I have attached a photo of the tunic in the "Jade" color way. This is a silk/cotton piece, with beautiful beading detail at the neck and sleeve cuffs that wholesales for $85.

Was the loyalty pass program valuable for your company?
I’ve found that being a new company it is a little harder to make solid appointments with buyers for the shows because they are not familiar with Float yet, however the pass program was great because it encouraged a lot of new buyers to come by my booth and see what Float was all about which proved to be very valuable. Because of this program we were able to form many new and mutually beneficial relationships.

Intercoastal Tunic In Jade.

For More Information:

Float Designs
www.floatdesigns.net
Phone: 1-866-OHFLOAT
Email: info@floatdesigns.net