Costume Design Business Uses Reclaimed Material Model
Designers can reduce overhead by partnering with non-profits to source raw materials for custom performance attire.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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Makeup Ninja, a Nashville-based costume design business, provides custom outfits for musicians and performers. Located at Studio 615, the venture sources materials from the non-profit Turnip Green Creative Reuse.
Why it matters
Operators in creative fields can consider the cost-effective model of sourcing reclaimed materials to manage overhead. This approach supports a local supply chain while offering performers a sustainable, unique wardrobe option.
Makeup Ninja serves as a local costume provider operating out of Studio 615. The business utilizes non-profit sourcing through Turnip Green Creative Reuse rather than traditional textile vendors.
The players
Makeup Ninja
A Nashville-based costume design business offering custom outfits for performers.
Jaiya Wendell
The operator of Makeup Ninja who designs costumes and sources reclaimed materials.
Turnip Green Creative Reuse
A non-profit organization that provides reclaimed materials for artistic use.
The details
The business operates by scouting found objects to up-cycle into specialized garments, which are available for purchase or rental. By sourcing through Turnip Green Creative Reuse, the owner minimizes material costs while creating one-of-a-kind designs. This model helps performers achieve a customized aesthetic while maintaining a lean operational footprint.
Timeline
Year-round operations for performer costume design.
Seasonal output focus for Halloween.
Market Landscape
Makeup Ninja follows the pattern of the circular economy retail model by repurposing non-profit donations into commercial inventory. This strategy marks a departure from traditional costume design businesses that rely on primary-market textile procurement.
Business owners in creative sectors should evaluate if reclaimed material sources can reduce procurement costs without sacrificing product quality. Owners can also look for partnerships with local non-profits to streamline their supply chain and improve sustainability metrics.
The takeaway
The successful operation of a design business often hinges on finding unique, low-cost material partners that enhance brand identity. Operators should monitor their inventory turnover rates to determine if expanding their custom offerings is financially sustainable for the next season.
Further reading
For more on new businesses in the area, visit Nashville Openings & Closings.
Source note: This article includes information reported by News Channel 5 Nashville (WTVF).
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