Challenge

Artefice, a Canadian fashion company merging AI with apparel design, approached Bloorsoft with a visionary concept: to allow users to create custom apparel using AI-generated images. Their goal was to harness the power of new text-to-image models to give customers the ability to visualize their own designs, select their preferred size, color, and finalize purchases through an integrated e-commerce platform. The MVP needed to offer a seamless, minimal user experience while supporting features like real-time design previews, a full e-commerce checkout flow, and integrated shipping management.

In addition to building the product, Artefice sought our help with launch strategies, design consultations, and connecting with potential VCs to secure further funding. With a focus on both technology and business outcomes, we needed to deliver a platform that worked from both a user experience and scalability standpoint.

Solution

Bloorsoft developed a custom e-commerce platform that allowed Artefice’s vision to come to life. Here’s how we tackled the project:

AI-Powered Design Integration:The heart of Artefice’s concept was the ability for users to generate apparel designs using AI. We integrated a text-to-image AI model that allowed users to input custom prompts and visualize their ideas in real time. This was central to the user experience, as it empowered customers to create unique apparel based on their own vision. We ensured the integration was smooth and fast, allowing users to cycle through multiple designs and preview them on t-shirts seamlessly.

Customizable E-Commerce Experience:We designed and implemented a straightforward, minimalistic UI using React and Chakra UI that focused on simplicity while providing all necessary customization options. Users could easily choose their t-shirt size, color, and finalize their design selection. The integration with Stripe for payments allowed Artefice to manage secure transactions, with real-time validation and purchase confirmation.

Shipping Management Integration:To streamline the order fulfillment process, we integrated the app with ShipStation’s API, ensuring that shipping information entered by users was automatically synced with Artefice’s shipping provider. This eliminated the need for manual entry and allowed for faster, more efficient processing of orders. Customers received live shipping updates, which enhanced trust and improved the overall buying experience.

Emails and User Notifications:For order confirmations and design previews, we used Resend to handle all email notifications. Each time a user completed a purchase, they received a confirmation email with all the necessary details, including design specifications, shipping information, and estimated delivery dates.

Scalable Infrastructure:To ensure the platform could handle future growth, we hosted the app on Vercel, which allowed for smooth scalability and continuous deployment. The backend, built on Firebase, enabled secure storage of user-generated designs and streamlined the overall development process. The combination of React, SCSS, and Chakra UI for front-end design ensured the platform was not only responsive but also easily maintainable as Artefice's user base grew.

Consulting Beyond Development:In addition to technical development, Bloorsoft helped Artefice strategize their launch. We worked closely with them to refine the user flow, improve the design aesthetics, and identify key selling points for their MVP launch. We also introduced Artefice to several potential VCs within Canada to help them secure additional funding.

Results

Bloorsoft successfully delivered the MVP in 2.5 months, providing Artefice with a fully functional e-commerce platform that integrated AI-driven design, payment processing, and automated shipping management.

Unique AI-Driven User Experience: The integration of the text-to-image AI allowed Artefice to offer a one-of-a-kind experience, enabling users to create and visualize custom apparel designs in real time. This feature became the core value proposition of their platform.

Seamless E-Commerce Flow: The simple, intuitive UI ensured a smooth customer journey from design to purchase, leading to a high level of user engagement and positive feedback from early testers. The integration with Stripe provided secure and efficient payment handling, giving customers confidence in their transactions.

Efficient Order Fulfillment: By integrating ShipStation, we automated the shipping process, eliminating manual input and speeding up order fulfillment. This enhanced the user experience by providing accurate and timely delivery information.

Scalable Infrastructure for Growth: The platform was designed with scalability in mind, leveraging Vercel and Firebase to ensure the app could grow alongside Artefice’s user base without requiring significant architectural changes.

Business and VC Support: Our involvement extended beyond technical execution, with strategic advice on launching the product and connecting Artefice with potential VCs to help secure funding for future development and expansion.

Why Choose Bloorsoft?

The Artefice project showcases Bloorsoft’s ability to not only build high-quality, innovative digital solutions but also offer comprehensive support that goes beyond development. We helped Artefice build a platform that leveraged cutting-edge AI technologies, created a seamless user experience, and integrated all necessary components for a successful e-commerce launch.

At Bloorsoft, we specialize in delivering products that drive business outcomes. Whether it’s integrating advanced AI, handling complex payment and shipping workflows, or providing strategic guidance for product launches, we offer a full-service approach that helps startups bring their vision to life. Our technical expertise, combined with our focus on business impact, makes Bloorsoft the ideal partner for startups looking to scale and succeed in competitive markets.