Threads of Impact: How Megha Patil Combines Fashion and Social Good

After earning a degree in biochemistry, Megha Patil switched gears by leaning into her lifelong interest in fashion and design. She pursued fashion courses in India and London. Later, she moved to the US with her husband and became a mom. “The birth of my daughter fueled my desire to create Happy Lilliput—a brand celebrating childhood whimsy and empowering women,” says Megha. 

Launched in 2023, Happy Lilliput is a clothing label for children, offering tulle dresses and gowns made ethically in small batches. The special occasion pieces feature fabric flowers crafted by marginalized women in India. Not only does Megha help employ these women, but she also supports them by donating 10% of Happy Lilliput’s proceeds to social programs that benefit them. In 2024, Megha’s company was recognized as a “BBB4Good Verified Business” by the Better Business Bureau.

In addition to helping artisans in India, Megha also enjoys supporting other entrepreneurs, and she offers fashion and design consulting services. 

“I help businesses customize their own t-shirts, sweatshirts and other garments with their logos. I also help small clothing business owners who've been sourcing from different parts of the world produce their own designs. These boutique owners often have clothing designs in mind but need help with the technical aspects like designing and production. I can help them with the tech pack, sampling, fabric, sourcing and then manufacturing and packaging as well.”  

Learn more about Megha in her interview with Artisan Joy. 

How did you get started in fashion?

My journey began in Mumbai, inspired by the vibrant fabrics and textures around me. Despite earning a degree in biochemistry, I pursued my passion for fashion, studying design and styling in India and London. The birth of my daughter fueled my desire to create Happy Lilliput—a brand celebrating childhood whimsy and empowering women. We support marginalized women in India by teaching them to craft fabric flowers, blending creativity with social impact. Despite challenges, I launched Happy Lilliput in 2023, committed to sustainability and empowerment.

When did you realize that you could turn your passion into a business?

I always knew I was born to be an entrepreneur. The moment I realized I could turn my creative product into a business was when I saw the joy and empowerment it brought to children who wore my designs and the women who helped create them. Balancing my passion for fashion with a mission to support and empower women and little girls, I taught them valuable skills. The overwhelmingly positive response to my early designs and the impact on these women’s lives convinced me that Happy Lilliput could be both a successful business and a force for good.

How do you define success for your business?

I define success for Happy Lilliput by the positive impact we create on the environment and community. Success means producing high-quality, sustainable clothing that delights children and resonates with eco-conscious parents. Additionally, I offer design and packaging solutions to small businesses in the USA, providing them with sustainable, high-quality products. This dual approach ensures that our business not only thrives financially but also fosters a culture of sustainability and support within the fashion industry. Ultimately, success is measured by the joy our products bring, our eco-friendly practices, and the broader social impact we achieve.

Where do you find inspiration for your work?

I find inspiration in the vibrant cultures and colors of my hometown, Mumbai, where the rich tapestry of textiles and traditional crafts sparks my creativity. My daughter’s innocence and charm also inspire the whimsical designs at Happy Lilliput. Additionally, I draw inspiration from the resilient women who contribute to our brand, embodying strength and creativity. Traveling to new places, like London and the USA, exposes me to diverse styles and sustainable practices, which further fuel my vision. Ultimately, my inspiration comes from a blend of personal experiences, cultural heritage and a commitment to sustainability and empowerment.

What's one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you first started your business?

Certainly! Incorporating your hardship story perspective into the advice, it might go like this:

‘One piece of advice I wish someone had given me when I first started my business is to prioritize self-care and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Having experienced hardships and challenges myself, I understand how easy it is to get consumed by the demands of the business. However, I've learned that taking care of yourself emotionally, physically, and mentally is not only essential for your well-being but also crucial for sustaining long-term success. It's okay to take breaks, seek support when needed, and create boundaries to ensure a balanced and fulfilling life alongside your business journey.’

What advice would you give to someone who wants to start selling their art or creative product?

As the Founder and CEO of Happy Lilliput, here's my condensed advice for artists entering the world of selling art or creative products:

Know your audience: Understand who you're creating for and tailor your art to resonate with them.

Build a strong brand: Create a unique brand identity that reflects your style, values and story.

Invest in quality: Focus on high-quality craftsmanship to build trust and loyalty with customers.

Invest in packaging: Design thoughtful and attractive packaging that enhances the unboxing experience and reinforces your brand image. Everyone loves a pretty package.

What's something our audience would be surprised to learn about you?

One surprising thing about me that your audience might find intriguing is my background in biochemistry. Despite initially pursuing a different career path, I seamlessly transitioned into the world of fashion entrepreneurship with Happy Lilliput. This unexpected shift showcases my adaptability, creativity, and determination to pursue my passion despite challenges and obstacles along the way. It adds an intriguing layer to my journey, highlighting the diverse skills and experiences that have contributed to my success in the fashion industry and also I love to meditate.

As creatives, we can be continuously creating and refining our art. How do you handle perfectionism?

As a creative, I've learned to navigate perfectionism by setting realistic goals and focusing on progress rather than flawless outcomes. Embracing imperfections as part of the creative journey has allowed me to grow and learn. I practice self-compassion, set time limits for each phase of my work and seek constructive feedback from trusted peers. Knowing when to finalize a project and let go has been crucial in overcoming perfectionist tendencies and staying productive. These strategies have helped me enjoy a more fulfilling and balanced creative process.

What's something that surprised you about running a creative business?

Certainly! Here's the addition to the previous response:

One surprising aspect of running a creative business that may have caught you off guard is the intersection of artistry and entrepreneurship. While you likely anticipated the creative challenges and joys, navigating the business side of things, such as marketing, finances, and legal considerations, might have been unexpectedly complex. Balancing your artistic vision with the practicalities of running a business, including managing teams, budgets, and timelines, can be both rewarding and demanding. Additionally, discovering the diverse skills and roles required, from creative director to CEO, highlights the multifaceted nature of running a successful creative enterprise.

Moreover, every day presents a new struggle and a new challenge in the dynamic landscape of a creative business. Being ready to wish upon a star and then rolling up your sleeves to make that wish come true is a mindset that entrepreneurs in the creative industry must adopt. It's a journey filled with surprises, growth opportunities, and the chance to turn dreams into reality through hard work and determination.

What’s your advice for handling the highs and lows of running a business?

Embrace wins and learn from losses. Celebrate successes and use setbacks as learning opportunities.

Maintain a Positive Mindset: Stay optimistic during highs and focused on solutions during lows.

Seek Support: Surround yourself with mentors and peers for guidance and feedback.

Stay Flexible: Adapt to market changes and be open to new opportunities.

Take Care of Yourself: Prioritize self-care and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Focus on Long-Term Goals: Keep your long-term vision in mind while addressing short-term challenges.

Has someone ever criticized your work? How did you handle it?

Yes, Yes, criticism is a natural part of being a creative entrepreneur. I have handled it in a very demotivated manner initially, but over time I realized I must strive to approach it with an open mind and a willingness to learn and improve. Now, I carefully evaluate the feedback, separating constructive criticism from subjective opinions. If the criticism is valid and offers insights into areas where I can enhance my work, I use it as an opportunity for growth and refinement. However, I also remain confident in my vision and artistic choices, trusting my instincts and staying true to my creative voice. Ultimately, handling criticism involves striking a balance between humility and self-assurance, using feedback to evolve while staying authentic to my artistic vision.

What's a cause you are passionate about?

Empowering women, especially those from marginalized backgrounds, is my deep passion. Growing up around resilient and determined women fueled this drive. Through Happy Lilliput, I teach valuable skills to marginalized women in India, providing employment and fostering pride. This cause isn't just about gender equality; it's about economic empowerment and building a supportive community. I believe that by empowering women, we create positive societal change and contribute to a more inclusive world. This passion drives my creativity and fuels my journey with Happy Lilliput, making it a vehicle for meaningful impact.

Additionally, I am proud to collaborate with Aromi Agency, an epitome of empathy and empowerment. At Aromi, we train household women to earn a living, furthering our mission of creating opportunities and fostering self-sufficiency among women. www.aromiagency.com

Can you share the name of a supplier or vendor that you use for your business that you just love—one that makes running your business a bit easier? 

www.aromiagency.com

What brings you joy?

What brings me joy is seeing the transformative impact of my work. Witnessing the women I empower through Happy Lilliput and Aromi Agency gain confidence, skills, and financial independence fills my heart with joy. The smiles on their faces as they create beautiful products and earn a living bring a sense of fulfillment that transcends mere success in business. Knowing that my efforts contribute to positive change in their lives and communities is a source of deep joy and motivation for me.

Thanks, Megha! You can learn more about her work at www.happylilliput.com.

Editor’s Note: This interview has been edited for length and clarity.