“See The Way I See” is an intriguing apparel brand that gained attention after appearing on the renowned business pitch show, Shark Tank. The founder, Sophie Nistico, presented her business on the show with a dual mission: to offer unique clothing options and to create a broader awareness about mental health. With a powerful backstory and a strong vision, the brand aimed to resonate with the audience and potential investors alike.
The experience of “See The Way I See” on Shark Tank showcased the brand’s journey and the entrepreneur’s attempt to secure funding to scale up her business. The pitch not only highlighted the business model but also emphasized the social impact the brand strives to achieve through its products. It’s a compelling story of how a personal mission can transform into a business that speaks to a larger cause.
Key Takeaways
- “See The Way I See” combines fashion with mental health advocacy.
- The brand’s founder pitched to investors on Shark Tank.
- The apparel line is known for its unique message and social impact.
The Founding Story
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NXOOMI2tju8&embed=true
This section chronicles the journey behind the innovative apparel brand, ‘See The Way I See,’ detailing its inception by Sophie Nistico and how her personal experiences gave rise to a platform that blends compassion with fashion.
Sophie Nistico and the Vision
Sophie Nistico, the brainchild of ‘See The Way I See,’ is a Trumbull, Connecticut native whose collegiate journey at Sacred Heart University was punctuated by a struggle with chronic migraines. These intense experiences served as the unexpected inspiration behind the brand, driving her to look beyond her pain and channel her empathy towards others.
The Birth of ‘See The Way I See’
The idea was born from Nistico’s hobby and a deep-seated desire to support individuals struggling with mental health and visual impairments. ‘See The Way I See’ started as a mission-focused project that aimed to provide a tangible connection to the challenges faced by those often misunderstood or overlooked by society.
From Passion to Platform
‘See The Way I See’ has evolved from a personal and heartfelt hobby to a robust entrepreneurial platform. Through her commitment to the mission and a tireless pursuit of understanding, Nistico nurtured her brand into a beacon of support for people with diverse sensory experiences, bringing a unique and caring perspective to the apparel industry.
Shark Tank Success
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y9JtuQWc5cc&embed=true
Sophie Nistico took her brand See The Way I See into the Shark Tank, conveying her passion for creating a business with a strong mission centered around mental health and empathy.
Pitching to the Sharks
When Sophie Nistico presented her business to the Sharks, her poise and clarity were evident. The pitch for See The Way I See combined a personal story with a professional business plan, which caught the attention of the seasoned panelists, including Kevin O’Leary, Mark Cuban, Lori Greiner, Barbara Corcoran, and Daymond John.
Season 14, Episode 21 Highlights
During Season 14, Episode 21, Nistico’s presentation illuminated the Sharks on the brand’s unique angle. They were notably impressed by the company’s emphasis on mental health and accessibility, reflecting a growing market trend. Her performance on the show was memorable for its heartfelt authenticity and the engagement it prompted among the investors.
Investment and Valuation
Sophie entered the Tank asking for $250,000 in exchange for 10% equity, placing the valuation of See The Way I See at $2.5 million. While some Sharks expressed concerns about scalability and market penetration, the pitch highlighted the opportunity for growth and development in the niche market of mental health-conscious apparel.
Products and Messages
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TgT7cmFZJuE&embed=true
See The Way I See leverages its platform to promote mental health awareness through a variety of products, including affirming apparel, jewelry, and stationery. Each piece not only serves as a fashion statement but also carries a profound message intended to inspire and comfort individuals dealing with mental health challenges.
Apparel and Accessories
The apparel line from See The Way I See extends beyond mere clothing; it includes t-shirts, sweatshirts, and pants designed to comfort and uplift. Each item, such as the ‘Migraine Brain Crewneck’, is more than a piece of clothing; it’s a voice for those who experience chronic migraines. For those prone to sensory overload, the brand offers a thoughtful ‘Sensory Overload Hoodie’. Additionally, the ‘Overthinker Since Birth Crewneck’ serves as a solidarity symbol for anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed by their thoughts.
Jewelry with a Purpose
See The Way I See has also crafted a line of jewelry that does more than accessorize an outfit. Pieces like the ‘All Smiles Ring’ and the ‘Anxious Ring’ combine fashion with function, serving as subtle reminders for self-love and emotional health. Each ring is not just a piece of jewelry; it’s a tool to remind wearers of their strength and resilience in the face of anxiety.
Stationery and Stickers
The brand’s commitment to mental health awareness shines through its line of stationery and stickers, featuring positive affirmations. These products are created to be constant reminders of one’s worth and potential. Whether it’s a sticker with a motivational quote or a notebook for journaling, these items are designed to offer support and encourage self-expression.
Impact and Advocacy
See The Way I See has made significant strides in both championing the importance of mental health awareness and building a community that supports individuals in embracing their unique perspectives. The brand’s mission extends far beyond apparel, touching lives with a message of acceptance and understanding.
Fostering a Supportive Community
They have created a supportive community through social media platforms like Instagram, where people can share their stories and connect with others who have faced similar challenges. By promoting size inclusivity and a supportive community, See The Way I See encourages individuals to manifest their best selves, with products like the “Lazy Daisy” embodying this ethos.
Advancing Mental Health Awareness
See The Way I See is more than a clothing line; it’s part of a larger movement to destigmatize mental health. Their approach to advancing mental health awareness includes tangible items like posters and apparel, with each sale helping to spread their mission. They have found success on platforms like Amazon, where their products are easily accessible, thereby increasing awareness and support for the cause.
