I applied for Shark Tank three times, and on the third try, I made it on air. But before I tell you more about that, let's rewind back to how Sock Candy started.

 

I have always loved fashion and styling outfits. If it were up to me, I would've gone to fashion school. But my Asian upbringing brought me to business school instead as my parents thought it was a more practical career. I worked in corporate advertising all through my 20's, and I was unfulfilled. 

 

So one day, on the train ride home, I decided to quit advertising and pursue fashion blogging. For the next 3 years, I posted my outfits on Instagram, and became known as the girl who always styled socks with her sandals and heels. It was during this time that I realized there was a gap in the US sock-market for elevated socks that make a statement, designed to be seen and styled with outfits. All the socks available either had tacky prints, or were basic cotton socks with no prints at all. As a maximalist, I love prints and color, but I also wanted something elevated and chic. So in August 2020, I launched Sock Candy.

 

Two years into the business in 2022, I applied for Shark Tank for the first time through the online application. I heard back the next day from a casting producer - she wanted to get on an introductory phone call. I was ecstatic! After the phone call, I was moved to to next stage of the process which was the video submission. I had to make a video of myself talking about my business and showing my product. I submitted the video, and after that it was crickets. 

 

In 2023, I applied again through the online application. This time, I didn't hear back at all. But I didn't give up. I figured they look for different things every season.

 

So in January 2024, I applied again, using most of the same information I had submitted in the previous 2 applications, but with updated numbers. It took until May for a casting producer to reach out. I went through the same process of an introductory phone call and then the video submission. I do have to say my video this time was much better - I was more compelling and really showed my personality. After I submitted my video, I didn't hold my breath. I had been at this stage before, so I wasn't expecting anything.

 

But then, in June, producers reached out telling me I was being prepped for the show. I had never gotten this far in the process! After more rounds of auditions and months of prep, I finally reached my filming date in September. 

 

Will I sink or swim? Stay tuned for Part 2: The Pitch!