From Frustration to Invention: The Entrepreneurial Journey of Rashmi Hudson

We had the pleasure of speaking with Rashmi Hudson, founder of Alltimate Luggage, who has turned her frustration with traditional luggage into a successful startup. With a background in business and marketing, Rashmi has been able to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship and bring her unique 3-in-1 Carry-On Travel System to market. In this interview, we will delve into Rashmi's journey and learn about her experiences in starting and growing her business.

Q: Can you tell us about your background and how you became an entrepreneur/business owner?

A: I have a degree in Business/Marketing from Columbus College and a master's in business from CSU. I retired from Aflac after 22 years to raise my children. After they went off to college, I wanted to pursue something that would keep me busy and my mind working. While visiting my son at college, I was frustrated with having to carry multiple pieces of luggage and having to iron my clothes when I got to my hotel room. That was when I decided to create a garment bag that would wrap around a duffle to better suit my needs. In 2013, I obtained a business license and began working on my product. I sewed the first prototype on my own sewing machine, and with encouragement from my father-in-law, got a patent on the original garment bag combo in 2018. Since then, I have received a second US patent in 2020 and an international patent in 2022 on the current system.

Q: Can you give us some insight into your entrepreneurial experience?

A: When launching my startup, I relied on my father-in-law for his extensive knowledge on patents, and my husband for banking help. I also attended the CO.STARTERS+ program with StartUP Columbus and received mentorship from the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), Lou Childs of SlumberPod, and many others. My background in marketing was helpful in promoting my product, but I had to learn new tools such as social media to effectively reach my target audience. I started my business in 2013 and have been working on it ever since.

Q: What is the hardest lesson you have learned throughout your experience as an entrepreneur?

A: The hardest lesson I have learned as an entrepreneur is that social media is not as straightforward as it may seem. And although my perfectionism has been instrumental in creating a quality-centered product, it can also get in the way of our progress. Additionally, balancing work and personal life while working from home and avoiding multitasking has also presented a challenge. While I strive to maintain a five-day workweek, it's not always possible as an entrepreneur since it requires a 24/7 commitment to succeed.

Q: What are your greatest accomplishments earned throughout your experience as an entrepreneur?

A. One of the most significant accomplishments in my journey as an entrepreneur is securing three utility patents for my product. These patents were granted based on the functionality of my invention, which made the process more rigorous than obtaining design patents. I am proud that my idea was able to withstand such close scrutiny, and it serves as a testament to the effort and dedication I put into making it a reality.

Q: Knowing what you know now, is there anything you would have done differently when starting your business?

A: Looking back, if I could start the journey of entrepreneurship all over again, I would have invested more time and resources into learning about social media marketing earlier in the process. In hindsight, taking some classes would have been an excellent investment for the success of my business.

Q: What are your hopes for the future of your business? Do you have any hopes for our community's aspiring entrepreneurs?

A: This year, my goal is to get in with the PGA and connect with golf professionals to double my sales and use that to fund my direct to consumer marketing efforts. My long-term goal is either to sell the business or license it out to stay connected. Proceeds would be used for the greater good. For aspiring entrepreneurs, I encourage them to pursue their passions and ideas with perseverance and dedication. And, please don't be afraid to ask for help or seek mentorship when needed.

It's clear from Rashmi's story that entrepreneurship is a journey filled with challenges and opportunities. Her experience in starting and growing her business highlights the importance of perseverance and adaptation, as well as the value of seeking out resources and mentorship. We wish Rashmi continued success in her business endeavors and hope her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs.

Visit alltimateluggage.com to learn more. And check them out on Facebook at Alltimate Luggage and on Instagram at @alltimate!