HOLIDAY SEASON
APPLICATIONS
ARE (A)LIVE!
APPLICATIONS DUE:
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2024 @ 11:59 PM
APPLICATION FEE: $20
FEMME FATALE DC IS
A brick-and-mortar retail store in Washington, DC.
We are a Grassroots Retail space where our Entrepreneur Members receive 100% of their monthly sales while paying a low-barrier membership fee.
At Femme Fatale DC, we believe in claiming economic liberation. We are stronger and faster together - our community is proof.
OUR APPLICATION PROCESS
HOW DO I APPLY?
Read FAQs [LINK]
Preview our official Application Questions [LINK]
Pre-pay the Application Fee [LINK]
Receive an email from us that includes a link and password to our Resource + Application Portal
Login information is delivered to the email address associated with your payment.Log in to the Resource and Application Portal using the URL and login supplied by email
Complete the application by the due date above.
WHY AM I PAYING UP-FRONT?
In the entrepreneur space, we notice that organizations provide resources after submitting an application - we think that’s backward. We’re giving you the tools first! Femme Fatale DC has compiled resources specific to the retail entrepreneurship space. With payment upfront, we are able to offer our unique Resource + Application Portal. Learn more about the resources you’ll have access to immediately after paying and BEFORE you complete your application.
When you pay:
Receive an email from us that includes a link and password to our Resource + Application Portal
Login information is delivered to the email address associated with your payment.Log in to the Resource and Application Portal using the URL and login supplied by email.
OUR ENTREPRENEUR TESTIMONIALS
EXPONENTIAL GROWTH
Our business, LUMXN Magazine, has grown immensely with Femme Fatale DC! Our readership has grown exponentially, as have our number of submissions. Most importantly, it has helped us build a community around our product with people who genuinely care about it. We feel part of a beautiful organic cycle of connection and community that keeps helping LUMXN grow. - LUMXN
TREMENDOUS GROWTH + COMMUNITY
Femme Fatale DC is truly my happy place. I discovered them shortly after I moved to Maryland from Michigan -I've built a community and have maintained relationships that now seem lifelong. Not to mention, my business has grown tremendously since I've been an entrepreneur in the shop.- Thrift N’ Prosper
DO IT! I’VE GROWN SO MUCH
Femme Fatale - what a great experience. For any Entrepreneur in the DMV area who is interested in joining the community. Do it! I’ve grown so much during these months and felt support every step of the way. This community is so special in so many ways. You don’t come across something like this often. I’m so happy I took this chance.
- Melanie Royster
GROWTH, JOY + COMMITMENT
We have tremendously enjoyed our years with Femme Fatale DC and look forward to continuing to be a part of this community for years to come - della Terra Organics
CLEAR COMMUNICATION
I have absolutely loved my experience selling at Femme Fatale DC! Communication is clear, the space is beautiful, the community is inspiring — and my business is thriving better than ever! - Glorious Birds Designs
INCREDIBLY GRATEFUL
I am incredibly grateful for Femme Fatale [DC]; they’ve given me the amazing opportunity to conduct up-cycle sewing education. And they have inspired me to expand my hobby into a business and community-building venture. - Sarah the Upcyclist
MEMBERSHIP
-
Paid in advance via direct deposit, no refunds.
Membership Fee………...........$900 for 2 months ($450/month)
Payouts……............................Direct Deposit
FAQ
What are the perks of my Entrepreneur Membership?
First and foremost: each month Entrepreneur Members receive 100% of their sales, minus our below industry average credit card processing fees. This is what we call Direct-To-Founder funding.
Your brand’s products will be displayed and professionally merchandised in a brick-and-mortar retail store in Washington, DC. The Team at Femme Fatale DC is knowledgeable and insightful; you may receive feedback from the team in addition to receiving monthly consumer feedback in the form of a sales report.
Femme Fatale DC takes care of the overhead: we secure the supplies and physical space for the shop. We engage a professional retail staff that cares for and sells your products. We supply displays, packaging, a platform to uplift your brand and products, practical support, education, and community ties - all in addition to selling your products in Femme Fatale DC physical retail settings.
Femme Fatale DC is a connector: we provide space and opportunity for you to show up and show out. With us, you increase your access to entrepreneur and creative networks where connections are made and collaborations take hold. We support womxn and non-binary people at all entrepreneurial stages. Femme Fatale DC offers a framework for those just starting, those emerging in their lane, and those with established businesses that have made a career out of their craft.
Once accepted, what is my commitment to Femme Fatale DC?
Once accepted and your contract is signed, you will be committed to selling products at Femme Fatale DC for the duration of your contract. The Entrepreneur Membership Fee is billed monthly or up-front at a discount; the first payment is required at the time of contract submission.
Is Femme Fatale DC a one-day pop-up or market?
No. Femme Fatale DC is a brick-and-mortar retail store in Cleveland Park, Washington, DC. 3409 Connecticut Ave. NW. Washington DC. 20008
I’d love to retail my goods inside the Femme Fatale DC shop. How do I join?
You can introduce yourself by applying. Please submit your payment for access to our application portal - then check your email. You will receive instructions, a URL and password for the Resource and Application Portal. There you will find helpful application resources and our official application. Be advised: We review complete applications only. We’d love to meet you and learn about the products offered by your business!
Who can apply for Femme Fatale DC?
By womxn for all, that’s our way. Womxn and non-binary identifying independent retail entrepreneurs and businesses owned 50% or more by womxn may apply to join the Femme Fatale DC ecosystem.
What’s the Entrepreneur Membership?
The Entrepreneur Membership allows you to sell your products in the physical Femme Fatale DC retail setting, while receiving Direct-To-Founder Funding. Our Entrepreneur Members, take home 100% of their sales (minus below industry average credit card processing fees) every month. We provide opportunities to more womxn entrepreneurs & creatives by offering the lowest possible rates so that you can scale at your pace.
I’ve sold my goods at Femme Fatale DC before - do I need to reapply?
Yes, we want to learn about your new products and how you’ve grown your business! Those who reapply are not guaranteed acceptance during the current application cycle.
Is the application fee refundable?
Our application fee is non-refundable. However, you retain access to the Femme Fatale DC Resource Package with your application fee.
What size space will I have?
Femme Fatale DC does not allot assigned space. Rather than organizing the shop by brand groupings, we cross-curate product offerings and brands within the shop. We like the unexpected and so do our customers: we use this “cross-brand storytelling” method to create our eclectic and immersive retail experience. We utilize our cross-merchandising strategy to make the shopping experience more convenient and inspiring for our community.
It is important to us that we enrich connections through the multiple brand and product offerings put forth by our Entrepreneur Members. Femme Fatale DC is about the story. Storytelling is how we create both the overall layout and the fine details of our shop(s) and experiences.
Products from each entrepreneur will be a part of a cohesive and harmonious shopping experience. Femme Fatale DC is a boutique shopping experience.
Who is responsible for providing insurance for products at Femme Fatale DC?
Femme Fatale DC insures the space. It is the responsibility of the Entrepreneur Member to insure their products. Having independent insurance is not required to feature products at Femme Fatale DC locations.
Do you offer inventory support?
You are responsible for managing your inventory. Managing your in-store inventory means coming to the shop to maintain stock as needed and track what is selling between sales reports. The Team at Femme Fatale DC may request new inventory as needed. All merchandise must be approved by management and delivered at appointed times. All new inventory must be labeled and tagged to shop standards.
How much backstock can I store at Femme Fatale DC??
Femme Fatale DC provides storage based on location size and configuration. We expect all entrepreneurs to work with staff to manage and maintain their stock.
Is the Membership Fee flexible?
We offer a high-quality retail environment with a reasonable pricing structure. Entrepreneurs must pay the Membership Fee based on their contract with Femme Fatale DC. Late fees apply to delayed payments. Failure to pay Membership Fees may result in removal from Femme Fatale DC, limiting future opportunities with the company.
I submitted my application payment - what’s next?
When you submit your payment, you receive an email with a URL and password granting you access to application resources and our official application. Please fill out your application promptly.
What type of products does Femme Fatale DC consider?
We are looking for durable and nondurable products. The categories of what we are willing to consider are without limitation. For inspiration, we regularly consider offerings from artisans, creatives, designers, and small business owners who offer the following: Stationary; wellness; home accessories; beauty & skincare; pet accessories; gender non-exclusive, womxn’s and kids apparel and fashion accessories; artisanal shelf-stable packaged foods; gifts; DIY + craft kits; art.
Please note: this is not an application for any service-based businesses. It is strictly for physical products at this time. If you own a service-based business and would like to host a workshop, please fill out the Experiences + Events request form - as available.
Do I need to provide displays for my products?
Femme Fatale DC will provide displays and fixtures. We are open to using your displays if they meet the shop’s design aesthetic.
How many products can I have at the shop?
If your application is accepted, the Femme Fatale DC Creative Director will work with you to determine WHAT and HOW MANY of each product may be featured at our store.
We make merchandising decisions with intention based on shop location, size, and consumer interest. We use our experience serving diverse communities in the process of providing opportunity and access. We want everyone to flourish - this is an ecosystem, after all.
What legal forms do I need to sell?
To process your onboarding package, you must provide your EIN, Tax ID number, or Social Security number. Femme Fatale DC does not offer legal and/or tax advice or guidance.
I didn’t receive an email with my URL and Password. What can I do next?
Check your spam folder and any filters you might have set up within your email platform; search for noreply@jotform.com. If you cannot find the email, please contact us. www.femmefataledc.com/contact
My application is accepted - what’s next?
Once notified of your application’s acceptance, businesses have 72 hours to confirm their acceptance into the Femme Fatale DC Entrepreneur Membership. Upon confirmation, you will receive access to our onboarding portal. You must respond and complete actions within the specified times to secure your space.
What does the onboarding process look like?
Onboarding is a multi-day process that includes instructions to create a profile, remit payments, and request documents as described in the process. Accepted Entrepreneur Members will need to complete a inventory spreadsheet; educational materials are provided.
I didn’t hear back from Femme Fatale DC - what’s going on?
Start by checking your SPAM folder or any filters you have set on your account. If an email from Femme Fatale DC (an email ending in @femmefataledc.com) is not present, your application is likely incomplete. If you are sure your application was complete, please reach out. www.femmefataledc.com/contact
My application is not accepted - what’s next?
If you receive a “try again” letter from Femme Fatale DC, please don’t be discouraged and apply again next time! Acceptance into Femme Fatale DC is competitive, and we love seeing how you’ve grown your business over time. You retain access to our Application Resources as a download. Join us in our spaces, meet fellow entrepreneurs, and learn and grow. We pride ourselves on facilitating organic peer-to-peer education.
This application invests in you, your business, and your education specific to retail entrepreneurship.
May I host an event at FFDC if I am not selling goods inside the shop?
All are welcome to propose an event at Femme Fatale DC through our online application when available.
How are future opportunities promoted?
You can stay up-to-date by signing up for our newsletter. We also promote events and opportunities on our Instagram, @femmefataledc.
FEMME FATALE DC VALUES
We embody Equality; The Growth Mindset; Wellness & Creativity as Empowerment and Economic Liberation.
Femme Fatale DC uplifts womxn and non-binary people with growth opportunities and connections that facilitate success. We create spaces and places where engagement might cultivate mutual trust through shared experience.
With a “we can do it attitude” we know we are not limited. From experience we know empowerment comes from showing up; creating something new and engaging in profitable energetic exchange.
Our futures are in our hands: we do the work together. We liberate ourselves. We amplify.
RESOURCES INCLUDED
PRODUCT DOCUMENTATION by ADRIANA MENDOZA, COO + CREATIVE DIRECTOR of FEMME FATALE DC
Create, package, manage and promote your products: You're bound to get it right with this resource complied by Femme Fatale DC’s own Creative Director, Adriana Mendoza. This nine(9) page .pdf features 15+ clickthroughs to resources specific to the needs to retail entrepreneurs, with notes and insights from Adriana.
BIO SPECIFIC TO RETAIL ENTREPRENEURSHIP by BRIGET HEIDMOUS
Own your accomplishments: introduce yourself, your business, and your products clearly - with impact. This BIO template is created specifically for retail entrepreneurs by Briget Heidmous. Briget is an artist, creative entrepreneur, and narrative specialist. www.briget-heidmous.com
APPLICATION TIPS:
review our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
read every question on the application before starting
take note of the resources provided
use what serves you and leave the restprepare your answers in a document saved on your device or computer, copy and paste those into the final application
prepare your images in advance for easy upload
We give you tips on taking pictures and preparing image files in your Application Resources package.
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
INTRODUCTORY INFORMATION
Name
Name(s) of co-owner(s), if applicable
Name of Business
Email Address
Phone Number
Website
Instagram Link: https://
Upload a headshot/team pic
My business is owned 50% by a womxn or non-binary identifying person
Checkbox Yes/No
Bio for your company owner(s)
150wds
MISSION + PRODUCTS
Complete the sentence: I started my business because...
50wds
I consider my business to be socially conscious.
Checkbox Yes/No
I have a mission statement for my business
Checkbox Yes/No
My mission statement is this
100wds
Product Type(s)
Checkbox
Jewelry; Candles; Self-Care; Holistic; Self-Healing; Art Prints; Original Art; Ritual; Clothing; Couture; Vintage Resale; Plants; DIY-Products; Accessories; Books; Wellness; Other (fill in)
List specifically the products you will sell at Femme Fatale DC
200wds
Note any special care your products might need, ie. refrigeration, watering, weekly or daily care for baseline viability of the product
100wds
Attach Product Images
3-5 images 1200 x 800 px, 1MB or smaller
Prepare your images in advance for quick upload and submission. File types accepted: jpg, jpeg, png
Are you currently experiencing any life circumstances that might keep you from participating?
Checkbox Yes/No
Do your products rely on market availability?
Are any of your products seasonal?
Checkbox Yes/No
WHY FEMME FATALE DC?
Complete the sentence. I want to join Femme Fatale DC because…
50wds
What are you looking to activate as part of the Femme Fatale DC ecosystem?
Checkboxes Retail Space; Networking; Collaboration Opportunities; Trying New Product Offerings; Education; Inspiration
What would you like your business to look like in two years?
200wds
BUSINESS INFORMATION
This business has operated for this many years
10wds '
This business is my primary source of income.
Yes/No
My revenue last year was...
10wds
I have sold my goods in a retail store.
Yes/No
I have sold my goods and pop-ups and markets only.
Yes/No
I almost always have surplus stock on hand.
Yes/No
I make/source inventory only when I’m motivated.
Yes/No
When restocking products: What is your lead time for product delivery?
10wds
Approximately how many hours do you spend working on your business each month?
10wds
How many new products do you create each year? (Please approximate)
Number
What do you sell, that you have not seen inside Femme Fatale DC?
Long format answer
What is the average price point for your products?
Checkbox, dollar range selection
SELECT COMMITMENT TYPE
From the available commitment options, please select the option you are 100% committed to. Changing your commitment after submitting your application will be subject to fees and new terms.
Commitment Types:
Checkbox, select one.
CONFIRMATIONS
Click to confirm
I am applying to feature my products at a Femme Fatale DC retail location and understand that participation is a contracted commitment.
Click to confirm
If accepted: I understand that by becoming a Femme Fatale DC Entrepreneur Member I will be asked to actively contribute to the promotion of the store and my goods within. This means participating in marketing efforts, sharing events, gatherings, and happenings at the store on social media, by word of mouth, newsletters, and listserv's.
Click to confirm
I understand that Femme Fatale DC is here to create a space and promote the shop, events, and all retail-ready goods within in a general capacity. The promotion of my individual products, offerings, and brand is my responsibility.