After a parachute accident, this single mother takes up sewing and creates her own business

At 37 years old, Marilyne Briand, resident of Val d’Hazey (Eure) was not intended for sewing. But today ” Mimie Kikoo“, the self-business that she created, is developing, thanks to her determination and her imagination to make “flagship” products such as children’s fabric games.

In her workshop, located at home, all of Marilyne’s ideas come to life. There is something for all tastes and all colors. This makes this single mom proud.

She took up sewing after a parachute accident

Initially “Mimie” started making clothes only for those close to her: “I wasn’t into sewing. She was more like my great-grandmother,” she begins.

Maryline took it more seriously after a parachute accident from which she suffered.

“During my recovery, I couldn’t move. So, I started watching sewing tutorials on the Internet. It then became a hobby and then a passion. »

The young woman first made a tunic for her mother and then clothes for her children.

Creations from everyday situations

For Marilyne, creations respond to a need and it is very often everyday situations that inspire her. “We played “Memory” with my children and the hot chocolate spilled on the game. There, I said to myself why not create a fabric “Memory”. At least it would be washable and reusable.”

Others followed from this idea: dominoes, coloring sheets and hopscotch… “It lasts over time and it’s ecological”. In the same way, the napkin bundle was born. “It’s for the pool. We towel off and then put the swimsuit in. Everything around stays dry. »

“Through sewing, I create things that are useful and that I like. »

Health book covers, bibs, children’s blankets, aprons, nothing is impossible for the young woman.

From passion to self-employment

In June 2022, the self-taught seamstress decided to take a new step by creating her own business: “Mimie Kikoo”. She explains where this name comes from: “They nickname me Mimie because my name is Marilyne and I don’t like the diminutive Marie. Kikoo comes from my way of saying hello by text instead of writing hello. It means unusual little person. The combination of the two was a nice mix to evoke my activity.” In addition, Kikou also sounds like “who sews”.

Sales then started on the networks, through word of mouth and at the end of last year on the Christmas markets.

Marilyne’s little fairy fingers can also do alterations, zips, hems, customizations or create custom models.

“I learn every day, I inquire, I try and I start again until I succeed. It may not be the conventional methods but the result is there and the smile of my customers is what encourages me to continue. »

Marilyne is also a “Magician” in the “A Bras Cadabra” association which helps to understand the new role of parents, she also uses her talents as a seamstress.

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