Is Entrepreneurship Becoming a Toxic Culture?
For the last few years entrepreneurship has grown at a rapid speed as many Millennials and even Gen Zer’s are starting their own businesses and leaving the 9-5 jobs behind. Before starting your own business was a risk many didn’t want to make now in 2021 many are embracing that risk even during the pandemic as they leave their jobs to become their own bosses. With the success of many start up brands even in the last year, it's becoming more and more popular to become an entrepreneur but is this the life for everyone?
For the last few years entrepreneurship has grown at a rapid speed as many Millennials and even Gen Zer’s are starting their own businesses and leaving the 9-5 jobs behind. Before starting your own business was a risk many didn’t want to make now in 2021 many are embracing that risk even during the pandemic as they leave their jobs to become their own bosses. With the success of many start up brands even in the last year, it's becoming more and more popular to become an entrepreneur but is this the life for everyone?
When you scroll down on social media you may see lots of people promoting their brands, telling you to buy their products or use their service. Instagram and other social media platforms have turned into a giant portfolio for people to showcase their work and talents. Of course it's nothing wrong with wanting to promote your brand but is there ever a time to separate yourself from your brand. For many people there is no separation. They work countless hours promoting, making sure they have all their inventory, constantly trying to build their brand and it starts to become a 24 hours commitment, literally. You may even hear people say “I sleep when I’m dead” or “use all of your time into your business”. Even P. Diddy has that famous quote, ”Sleep is forbidden. When I'm working, I'm a machine and I don't look at other people like they are human.” Is that really a healthy mindset to carry with us? Working non stop like a machine without any rest or self care will give you burnout or even something worse. You can’t run your business if you are not taking care of yourself and staying healthy mentally or physically.
Within entrepreneurship culture you always hear people brag about how much money they have or how successful they are but don’t let that fool you. Being an entrepreneur is hard work and may not be for you. It's nothing wrong with taking the path of working a 9-5 or being a part of a team. There is a lot of sweat, tears and time that takes being an entrepreneur and starting your own business. If starting your own business is something you want to do, take the proper steps, create a plan A, B and C and of course take your time. It can also help to find a mentor or an expert to guide you in the early stages of your business. You can call in help from consultants to help you be an entrepreneur in a healthier wayMost importantly, take care of yourself, of course your business will be important to you but always put yourself first. It’s ok to take that nap, have a lunch break or even go on vacation. At the end of the day you’re human and when you take care of yourself, you’re taking care of your business.
19 Women-Owned Small Businesses to Follow
In the midst of influencers, department stores, fast fashion, and big beauty brands, it can be easy to forget how important it is to support small businesses.
In the midst of influencers, department stores, fast fashion, and big beauty brands, it can be easy to forget how important it is to support small businesses. They help shape and support our communities, and put more focus on the quality and craftsmanship of their products. The Small Business Association states that independent businesses can help reduce unemployment rates, and estimates that “small business owners create two out of every three net new jobs in the U.S, [which could increase] if consumers shifted just 10 percent of their business to local organizations.” Next time you are about to buy something from a large corporation, take a moment to think how you could be supporting these 19 (women-owned!) small businesses instead.
Fashion
• @Digitalkenteshop (Fitness Wear)
• @shopmucho (Latin-Inspired Clothing, Accessories, & Décor)
Jewelry
Beauty
Report: Libby Ayers
How To Boost Your Productivity and Attitude With Clothing When Working At Home
We know it hasn't been easy working from home especially if you've worked full-time in an office. One way to stay productive with accomplishing work and motivating yourself for the day it to make an effort in getting dressed for the day. See how influential this simple practice is in our newest article.
What has been the norm for businesses and employees in the past has transitioned into full work-from-home chaos due to the coronavirus. None of us fully prepared for maintaining our work life at home for what could be more than two months. Many of you who worked in an office and wished to work from home are experiencing the pros and cons of working remotely, with the biggest struggle staying proactive and completing work. It’s easy to get lazy, become unmotivated, and decide to watch TV or take a “quick” nap.
For a quick solution to this problem, we offer you the advice of dressing for work at home. We can imagine your response: “Why should I waste clean clothes to sit in the living room and work?” It’s important to look past your wash load and realize how it can boost your personal morale. Getting dressed in the morning often motivates you to accomplish work. If you opt to wear sweats or stay in your pajamas, these casual clothing pieces can make your mood for the day lackadaisical and unmotivated. Taking the time to shower, put on your favorite top and pants, styling your hair, and applying makeup can boost your confidence, make you feel ready to take on the day, and embrace your inner boss.
After reading this article, start small by wearing jeans or pants instead of sweatpants. Taking inspiration from the runway, Max Mara is our favorite with simplistic, but statement workwear pieces. Wear a wide leg pant with a simple top. It gives semi-casual vibes combining professional and fashionable. The second day, plan your outfit the night before giving focus and emphasis on wearing something attractive to boost your mood. Because the weather changes, a camel tone is perfect for a dull or bright day. Day by day, add more focus to how you get dressed. Not only will it make a difference in your attitude, but, also, your productivity for the day. Photo Credit: Filippo Fior/ gorunway.com
Report: Necole Jackson
Look for BlackGirlSunscreen on Your Next Trip to Target!
BlackGirlSunscreen has now become the first black indie sun care brand to have full time placement in a major retailer, Target.
BlackGirlSunscreen was created in 2016 for the “need of melanin women to have a sunscreen brand that caters exclusively to them.” Many people falsely believe that people and women of color don’t need the extra protection from the sun that sunscreen provides, but there is still a major risk for burns, sun damage, and skin cancer for people of all skin types.
The creator, Shontay Lundy, wanted to be able to go into a major retail store and find a sunscreen product made specifically for her, as well as other black and brown women. After years of dedication and hard work, BlackGirlSunscreen has now become the first black indie sun care brand to have full time placement in a major retailer. You can pick it up at your local Target today! The formula is cruelty free, vegan, reef safe, and contains a high SPF of 30. It is also infused with natural ingredients such as avocado, jojoba, cacao, carrot juice, and sun flower oil that make it perfect for everyday use. BlackGirlSunscreen provides protection from the sun while simultaneously moisturizing, and doesn’t leave the aggravating white residue on the skin that is common with most sunscreens.
Shop today to not only protect and nourish your skin, but to also support a black-owned beauty brand!
Report: Libby Ayers
In the Industry with Vanessa Edwards
The freelancer's hustle.. Unbeatable. Photographer, Vanessa Edwards takes us through two-days worth of industry norms.
We stepped in the life of freelance photographer, Vanessa Edwards for two days. Throughout our shadowing process we learned about her concepts involving shooting, creative development, editing and printing. Check out the video below for an exclusive look at being the behind the lens with Vanessa.
Learn more about Vanessa at FROMVENUSWITHLOVE.COM
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Perade Captures the Beauty of Nigerian Culture
Inspired by her Nigerian culture, Performance Adejayan's clothing brand is nothing short of captivating.
Nigerian native, Performance Adejayan, is set to showcase her West African inspired brand, Perade, at Wildfire: The Series. The event taking place April 30th, is aimed at providing a platform for emerging creatives and artists to showcase their designs and talents.
Perade is a brand built on very solid ideology. The 19 year old became increasingly frustrated with the cultural appropriation of “tribal” clothing. A native of Nigeria, she found it necessary to share a part of her culture with everyone around her in the spirit of respect, love and sharing. Understanding that the society we live in today includes many cultures, her goal is to educate audiences on Nigerian culture.
“Never underestimate yourself. Do not be afraid to disrupt the American fashion industry.”
The idea of Perade came from Performance's personal experiences within her culture. "As a Nigerian, the only time we got traditional clothes was during special occasions." Wanting to show pride for her country and culture at all times, she felt starting a clothing line that reflected her personal identity would be the perfect solution. Unlike the appropriated "tribal print" in stores, the brand mixes "African prints with western silhouettes" to transport Nigerian culture into wearable pieces for all.
The Meaning Behind Perade: "I took the first three letters of my first and last name to create Perade. "Per" means for every and "Ade" means crown. Perade is for every head, for every, for everybody. No matter what nationally you are, you can rock Perade. Do not let anyone rain on your “Perade” and tell you what you can and cannot wear!"
The designer's creative process is very simple. "If I cannot wear it, I cannot sell it." Perade makes a point to create pieces that are just a functional as they are fashionable. The designer admits that she spends much time study people and their habits. This helps with creating price points for her pieces, as many of the pieces are imported from Africa.
Expect to see an expanding portfolio from the brand as they are set to introduce new designs.
Shop Perade at Wildfire: The Series and continue to follow their journey on Instagram. Customer can place orders using the following information: Africanperade@gmail.com or Performance.adejayan@gmail.com.
Quick Q & A with Performance Adejayan
Tell Us A Little About Yourself
I am from Nigeria. I came to the U.S. with my family at the age of 8. I love experiencing new cultures. I love watching Korean dramas! I am a sophomore at Temple University. I am majoring in international business.
What advice would you give to anybody who want to do your job (or at least start the process)?
You have to start from somewhere. Do not be discouraged by people around you. You need to choose yourself and be a doer. Never underestimate yourself. Do not be afraid to disrupt the American fashion industry.
Any recent events/accomplishments involving your brand?
I was part of Temple University’s OAS fashion show. It was an amazing experience.
Curated by Niani Patterson (nianipatterson@aol.com)
Thrilla Seven Is Taking Over
It's not enough to make clothes anymore, you’ve got to create a world. Take a look at behind the scenes of Cierra Jaye's insanely empowering brand.
These days it is easier than ever for shoppers to support emerging designers. If you like the idea of supporting new talent, take a look at Cierra Jaye’s online fashion site, Thrilla Seven. Cierra Jaye will be a vendor at Wildfire:The Series. The event, taking place April 30th, is aimed at providing a platform for emerging creatives and artists to showcase their designs and talents.
Growing up, Cierra received most of her fashion inspiration from her mother and grandmother. “They taught me so much about clothing, textures and quality. They're the honest-to-God reason why I think I love fashion and clothing so much to this day”
The 23 year-old seamstress prides herself on being a mix of fun, craziness and creativity. Most of Cierra’s collection is designed in ways that bring out the confidence in her clients. The aesthetic of her designs stems from shows and movies such as Fresh Prince, Selena and Waiting to Exhale. Knowing that her clients genuinely love her designs is one factor that motivates Cierra to work so vigorously perfecting Thrilla Seven.
“Don’t worry about the ‘competition’. There’s enough room for everyone who truly wants it.”
Thrilla, a nickname given to Cierra years ago, is synonymous to “badass” or “daring”. Seven is a number that means completion or perfection. “Seven is a number that genuinely means so much to me. It just made sense to put the two together and to create a brand that embraces both.”
Launched in Fall 2011, Thrilla Seven has already participated in numerous fashion and beauty events. Cierra was also invited back to talk to the students at her alma mater about the secrets to being a fashion entrepreneur. When she is not sewing pieces, she is traveling to colleges and women’s empowerment events to showcase Thrilla Seven, as well as search for college brand ambassadors.
Quick Q & A with Cierra Jaye:
What advice would you give to anybody who wants to do your job (or at least start the process)?
Be yourself. If you have a vision, go for it. It's a great chance that you may seem 'crazy' at some moments; but what genius isn't? Think about your market, your demographic.
If there was one fashion house you could work with who would it be and why?
Diane Von Furstenburg: because she's timeless. She created the freakin' wrap dress for crying out loud! Her legacy of the classic everyday silhouette will live on for YEARS to come!
Betsey Johnson: she's wacky! Haha, I love her mind & how her concepts make sense in their own little way. Much like Jeremy Scott, her designs are very vivid. Fun. Loud. Charismatic. I'd get a kick out of shadowing her I'm sure!
Rachel Roy: she doesn't get anything wrong. She's the perfect blend between street wear and business casual. I can wear a hooded army fatigue jacket from her with a leather skirt & rugged white tee and walk into a conference room with a totally different look & turn heads. Classic greatness!
Shop Thrilla Seven at WIldfire the Series or online at ThrillaSeven.com
Curated by Niani Patterson (nianipatterson@aol.com)
Shoe Designer Renata Eileena Brings Glitz and Glam to Wildfire: The Series
Fashion entrepreneur, Reneta Eileena aims to mix things up at our upcoming pop-up shop with her custom shoe designs.
“I would mix bold colors and even at an early age I had been known for the unique clothes and shoes that I would wear.”
Fashion entrepreneur, Renata Eileena will be showcasing her shoes and cosmetics at pop-up shop Wildfire:The Series. The event, taking place April 30th, is aimed at providing a platform for emerging creatives and artists to showcase their designs and talents.
Born and raised in Philadelphia, even at an early age, Renata always knew that her passion for fashion would take her far.
The 30-year old designer began creating her custom shoes in 2010 while working at a temp agency. After realizing that her craft was more than just a hobby, Renata went full-fledged with her footwear designs. By 2014, she developed her own custom footwear, thus creating Renata Eileena, LLC! To date, Reneta Eileena has seen a significant growth in visibility. Her brand has landed her magazine interviews with Karen Civil and a feature on VH1's, Lala's Full Court Life.
Currently Renata Eileena, LLC offers a variety of custom heels and sneakers, along with bedazzling bustiers. The brand’s mission statement focuses on creating custom pieces for bold, fearless, and creative women. The ideal client is a woman who is not afraid to be a showstopper. In the near future, Renata plans to open a cosmetic line, Possible by Renata Eileena.
Expect to see Renata’s flamboyant designs on April 30th, 2016 at the Wildfire: The Series pop-up shop, hosted by Access by NKC. The day long event is aimed at giving emerging designers and performers a platform to showcase their designs and talent.
Shop Reneta Eileena Custom Shoes Here!
Curated by Niani Patterson (nianipatterson@aol.com)
At the rise of Covid-19 many of us first questioned the timeline of fashion week and would we see the regular calendar continue - the question weighed over many of us for months! It was refreshing to see design houses and designers across the globe take advantage of the uncertainty and plow into production mode - thus my interest in Jerri Reid New York - The Black Designer based in Brooklyn New York wow’d instagram with his latest collection paying homage to the Black Is King film which debuted earlier this year in July. I was taken aback at quick of a turn round the young designer produced and released his well crafted designs reflecting some of the films most memorable moments.