Industry Expert: Julia Minasian of Julia Minasian Designs

I was so excited for the opportunity to interview Julia of Julia Minasian Designs. She is absolutely one of the sweetest people I have ever had the pleasure of coming into contact with. In a world full of emails, text messages and instant messaging; Julia insisted that we see each other face to face. Well, face to face via Skype because we live on two different coasts! It was my first interview with an expert via Skype and I must say, it was my best interview to date.

Julia’s work is AMAZING!!! New ideas and inspiration for creative projects are a constant in California artist Julia Minasian’s life. She has been painting since as far back as she remembers and successful in the commercial art world for the last 15 years. Known for her fresh sense of color and innovative style, she has licensed widely in the home and garden décor worlds.  Her designs are on china, bedding, kitchen linens, paper, clothing and more. Her whimsical art is spirited and the delight she experiences with the creative process shows through in all her work. When purchasing any of her pieces, there is absolutely no doubt that you now possess a labor of love.



How did you get into the art/licensing industry?

I have been creating art for most of my life and selling my art since 18. I did massage therapy and would always sell my art on the side. I began working in house as an artist and got excited about the industry. I could tell that my work was not bad and people responded well to it.

What is your creative process like?

My creative process never stops. It’s everywhere I am. Sunlight on the trees and the pretty autumns and California inspire me. Everything inspires me. Sometime, clients ask for something specific. I start with nothing in my mind, however, I do start with a color pallet. I mainly paint. I love the feeling of the paint brush against the paper and the smell. I paint, scan it into the computer and then bring my mind into it and form it.

What Research did you do before starting your business?

NONE! I JUST JUMPED IN!

How long did it take for you to gain clientele?

It takes a long time to get clientele. It’s not about what you want but about what the industry wants. You have to find a way to provide what the industry wants and maintain your integrity as an artist. For 10 years I struggled to find a brand. It was frustrating because I felt like I had to paint a certain way. If you really love something, it will show up and I absolutely love having the ability to create. Now my esthetics are kind of in sync with the industry and what’s in trend. But no matter what I remain authentic to myself.

How important is business relationships in your line of work? How do you go about maintaining healthy business relationships?

VERY IMPORTANT. I try to stay in touch with all clients at least four times a year by sending them new work presentations or just a hello and "are you looking for anything" type of email. Active clients send new work as I finish it. This could be weekly. I find it hard to know the right balance of being pushy and not being pushy!!! There's an art to it which I am working on.

What is one major goal you have for your business that you haven't obtained? How are you going about obtaining it?

I would like to sell my designs to an actual fabric company. Many designs have been sold and used on fabric for Kitchen Linen, Clothing, Bedding, etc. but it would be great to have yardage. I am working on building contacts.

With so many other artists to choose from, what makes a licensing company say "I'm going to Julia M. Designs." What makes them become a returning customer?

I think/hope I'm easy to work with. I have been both Design Director as well as Freelance Designer so knowing the business from these two perspectives helps me know more of the needs of the person who is licensing my art. Ultimately I know it is not about what I want but only about what will sell. I never question a client's wish to change something but I may suggest options. I stay positive and meet good news with about the same energy as not such great news. Also, people love my colors and there is a trust level that I understand the market and trends.

What would you say is the most significant aspect in gaining clientele?

GOING TO TRADE SHOWS!


What advice, if any would you have for beginning artists who would like to have their work licensed?

My advice would be don’t start off with a licensing designer. I would say work in house with a designer and learn the industry from the inside out. Don’t rush it! Try to build a brand and authenticate yourself. Go to shows as an artist/student and check things out. People who jump in tend to spend a lot of money. You want to have a dynamic look and be industry savvy. You want to wait until you’re really strong to launch. When you do that, you’ll have a better chance. You also want to build your contacts and social networking from the very beginning.

Where can people find you in order to view your portfolio and/or contact you for services?

Julia's Website is for MANUFACTURERS ONLY BUT you CAN CALL her at 925 943 1047 FOR ACCESS TO IT.

Also if you want to take a look at her work be sure to check her out on Facebook . Don’t forget to give her page a like too.

You can also purchase some of her beautiful pillows on Overstock .

This Holiday Season Greeting Cards

Grant Application Seminar: Arts Education Partner Grant

For small business owners and community based organizations, grants and small business loans become the means to funding dreams. As many of you already know the grant writing process can be a long and tedious one, and paying someone to write one: EXPENSIVE! If you're not experienced in grant writing, the Brooklyn Arts Council offers assistance for someone just like you.

The Brooklyn Arts Council will be offering a Grant Application Seminar. Based on the information provided by their website, all application seminars include:

• An overview of their guidelines and various grant opportunities offered by BAC



• A detailed explanation of the application process and their updated online application



• Tips on writing a successful grant application



• A question and answer session



• A chance to meet BAC staff and other applicants

DATE:
October 22, 2013

TIME:
6:30pm-8:30pm

VENUE:
Brooklyn Arts Council
55 Washington St. (at Front St.),
Suite 218 DUMBO

You must RSVP for the event. For more information about the seminar and the Brooklyn Arts Council go to http://www.brooklynartscouncil.org/documents/2229

This sounds like a great opportunity for all who are eligible. Let us know how it goes!

Entrepreneurs On The Rise: Takiyah Broomes of Kiya Kakes

Takiyah Broomes studied pre-med and graduated with her BS in Biology, so when she made the switch to full time baker, it shocked many who knew her. Kiya Kakes is a home-based bakery that came into existence in April of 2012 and owned solely, Takiyah Broomes. She is the baker, decorator, accounts payable and receivable, and marketing coordinator. This beautiful woman does it all. She was previously a co-owner of a former baking company named Haute Cakes Bakery before it dismembered. Takiyah credits her time at Haute Cakes with testing her baking skills and allowing her to hone her craft. Kiya Kakes is new and original in its own right simply because Takiyah never received any formal cake baking or decorating training, yet she has managed to solidify a word of mouth based clientele that continues to grow day by day. Everything you see on any of the Kiya Kakes social networking sites, have all been mastered by a method of trial and error. Kiya Kakes features some of the most up to date creative pastries that are out in the market. Cake pops, push pops, Fondant cakes, butter-cream cakes, cupcakes, cookies and so much more.

1. How did you know that you were meant to go into business for yourself?

I knew I was meant to go into business for myself when I fully understood the power of my own attitude lol. I am someone who does not like to be told what to do, nor constantly supervised, therefore I knew I was not fit to work for the "man."

2. When did you finally decide to start your business?

I decided to start my business immediately after me a former business I had with a group of friends dismembered I knew that it was something I already enjoyed doing, therefore I continued with it.

3. How did you come up with your company name?

My company name "Kiya Kakes," was actually a joke amongst friends. "Kiya Kakes with a K" to be exact. For me it was simple and catchy, so I dropped the "C" and replaced it with a "K" and kept Kiya Kakes.

4. What is your favorite aspect of baking?

My favorite aspect of baking would have to be the decorative side. It 's where cake artists such as myself have a chance to truly make something stunning and creative on their own. It's like giving a painter a blank canvas, or a rapper a beat. There are endless things that someone can do with a blank canvas or a plain cake.

5. Do you have a signature flavor? Describe it.

Yes. My signature flavor would be my "famous" red velvet. It is my number 1 selling flavor. Although Red Velvet is a very popular cake, I tend to think mine is slightly different from your typical red velvet cake. I can't let out too many secrets lol, but I put my little personal spin on it and it seems to be a winner.

6. Out of all of your cake flavors, what is the current customer favorite?

It would definitely be my Red Velvet cake.


7. What has been the best thing about owning your own business?

There are so many! One would be the freedom to do as I please. I set my own rules, my own prices, my own schedule (which may be the most rewarding) and another would be the fact of escaping uncomfortable or stressful working environments that I have encountered in the past.

8. What has been the most difficult thing about owning your own business?

The most difficult thing about owning my own business would be the lack of time. I am an over achiever and at times, I like to take on the impossible. Baking is only one of my full time jobs, so I have to find the balance between baking, school as well as my 8-4 job schedule. There are literally but so many hours in a day, so trying to fit everything in can sometimes be a handful.

9. If you had one piece of advice to give to other small business owners like yourself, what would it be?

My single handed advice would be to work ALONE (she laughs), and if that is not possible, do not work with friends or family. It rarely ever works out and the problems that may arise from working with family and friends is simply not worth it.

10. Is there a blog, webpage or social networking site where we can find you?

At the moment, my work can be seen on social networks, Facebook and Instagram

5 Crazily Delicious Desserts For Your Trendy Late-Night Reception

Are you having or thinking of having a late-night reception? Well this one is just for you. A few days ago, I came across a blog post by Zoe Bain titled: “Are Waffle Tacos Coming to Taco Bell?” Somehow, it prompted me to think of fabulous breakfast-like desserts for those now trendy late night receptions that lead into the wee hours of the morning. I know one could wonder “how on earth did she make that connection,” but if you absolutely adore weddings and you’re even more of a “foodie,” then the connection wouldn’t seem too far fetched.

I mean let’s be honest here, while many guests head to a reception to wish the now newlywed couple well on beginning their lives together, they also go to the reception to: dance, drink, eat a great dinner and secretly hope for even better desserts.

In order to help all of you beautiful brides out there who believe in setting their reception apart from the rest and making their guests smile, I decided to seek out awesome desserts and create a list just for you. This list contains 5 delectably delicious, show stopping desserts, that would be absolutely perfect for your late night wee hour of the morning reception. These desserts can be placed at a “good-night station” to give reception goers an extra boost of energy or be a great doggy bag treat as a little something extra to say thank you to your guests for sharing in your special day!

1. You just can’t go wrong with these tasty Caramel Glazed Sticky Buns. www.babble.com

2. These Bittersweet Chocolate Waffles with Chocolate Chip Ice Cream will leave any guest feeling satisfied. www.yummly.com

3. The not too sweet taste of Cocoa-Pepper Waffle Cookies will be sure to please many. www.foodandwine.com

4. How could anyone not love Breakfast Buns filled with toasted nuts, butter and raspberry marmalade? www.delish.com

5. Cappuccino Doughnuts are topped with creamy icing and dustings of cinnamon. They scream one word: delicious.www.delish.com

While I personally love them all, I’d love to hear from you. So, which of these show stopping super tasty desserts would make an appearance at your late-night reception?

You can comment on our Twitter feed or our Facebook page.

Photo Credits: Brooke McLay, Joy Wilson, Ellie Miller, Ann Stratton

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Did it bring a little bit of bliss to your day? Yes? Awesome!!! Spread the bliss by sharing this post with your friends on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Google+ and LinkedIn.

Industry Expert: Stacey Bonello of BONELLO Productions

Stacey Bonello is a beautiful, vibrant, multi-faceted and multi-talented woman. Out of her many talents, Bonello Productions was born. BONELLO Productions (dba SBonello Enterprises Inc.) is a full service event planning company, here to cater to all your event planning needs. They are based in Brooklyn but have traveled extensively for events, bringing our services to Florida, Connecticut, Philadelphia, Atlanta as well as internationally to the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and South Africa. Bonello Productions offers a wide array of services, which will be useful to you from the inception of your event through to the reception. Their services include Graphic Design, Catering, Special Event & Wedding planning, as well as Decorating & uniquely hand crafted gifts/gift baskets/gift bags, Party rentals including chair covers, linens and centerpieces. Bonello Productions is also affiliated with other event service providers and will be able to put you in touch with the very best photographers, videographers, DJ's, Pastry experts (wedding cakes and specialty cakes) singers, bands, entertainers, stylists and venues.


Stacey Bonello

How did you come up with the idea to launch your own production company?

I have always been a creative individual and have always loved to put my hands to many different projects. I found that I loved to do TOO many things and had to find a way to either do one, or mesh them all together where it would still make sense. So S. Bonello Enterprises Inc was formed and born out of it was Bonello Productions which focuses on all aspects of event planning from inception to reception. I wanted to be a "One stop shop" for peoples event planning needs.

What made you decide to go into business for yourself?

I worked in corporate America straight out of college and was able to climb the corporate ladder and worked with many good people ending up in the publishing industry. I worked my fingers to the bone as I did coordinating every sales meeting; only to be "down-sized" in the end. I was the only African American Manager (Sales & Marketing Manager) at my job and people were shocked that I was laid off knowing my work ethic & dedication to the company. I realized in that moment that it was all about money and that any employee is indispensable. I decided in that moment never to return. After temping for a year following my lay-off I incorporated my own business in 2006 and haven't looked back since. My friends and family had always encouraged me to start my own business so I decided that I had noting to lose.

What Research did you do before starting your business?

Once I figured out what I wanted to do, I spoke to my lawyer in order to see which form of business would be best for me (LLC, Inc., Sole Proprietorship) and I consulted other friends and business owners about what it took to run a business. I was fortunate to know a lot of people who were more than willing to share their knowledge, insight & information. I in turn have done the same for many along my journey. No man is an island. It's a constant learning process.

When preparing for an event, what is your creative process like? Do you have specific brainstorming sessions? Do you carry a notebook/sketchbook and write down ideas as they come?

Each event is different. I can't say that I have a specific brainstorming session as I am constantly brainstorming and thinking of different ideas for different scenarios, different themes I'd like to present (to those who may have no clue what they want) at any given time. My brain is always churning with ideas. I do however speak with the person initially and get as much information as I can from them to find out their likes and dislikes. I have my trusty Notes section & Voice memo in my iPhone to jot down any random ideas I may have throughout the day.

About how many events do you have a month?

It varies. It could be anywhere between 1 to 4 events and my role in each event may differ depending on the needs of the client.

How important are business relationships in your line of work? How do you go about maintaining healthy business relationships?

Business relationships are extremely important! If your clients can't trust you, your product or your word, you have failed in business. Losing good clients is not an option so I do my best to keep my clients happy and more than satisfied with the product or service I provide them.

What is one major goal you have for your business that you haven't obtained? How are you going about obtaining it?

I would eventually like to have a Hall for my events. I am always looking at real estate and have a few places in mind that I would love to use as my establishment. In the meantime I am learning as much as I can about commercial real estate and am starting a gospel lounge with a friend who currently has a space available. I am very excited about that as it will definitely help me in some areas in regards to running certain aspects of an establishment and managing my own events consistently.

With so many other production companies to choose from, what makes a customer say "I'm going to Bonello Productions." What makes them become a returning customer?

The quality of my service and the personal care I give to each and every client has set me apart from many other event planners. My clients are treated like family and with the utmost respect. With catering my motto is "it has to taste as good as it looks and look as good as tastes! Quality is a huge thing for me in maintaining success.

If any, what experiences have you had as a Black American woman that has made your experience in the industry more difficult? How did you overcome them?

As an African-American woman in the business there has been some challenges, mostly competing with the larger conglomerate companies, but that may be a challenge for most small business owners. Unfortunately many of the challenges are from my own people choosing to utilize "bigger" businesses over mine knowing that I will provide them a better service. I just focus on being the best at what I do. I have increased my marketing so that people are aware of my services and continually get referrals from my existing customers...some whom I have had for many years.

What would you say is the most significant aspect in gaining clientele?

In my line of business it is staying marketable and always perfecting my craft. The better I get at what I do, the happier my clients are with the outcome, the more business referrals I get, the better my revenue.


What advice do you have for beginning business owners?

Whatever it is that you decide to do, you have to love it and do it wholeheartedly! There will be challenges and days where it may seem nothing is happening and you may think about throwing in the towel. You have to remember why you started in the first place and let your passion drive you to your success. You have to love what you do.

Where can people find you in order to view your portfolio and/or contact you for services?

My portfolio can be found on Facebook at Bonello Productions and I may also be contacted at smbsolutons@yahoo.com

Entrepreneurs On The Rise: Felicia Rosser-High of Her2 Cosmetics

Felicia Rosser-High is no stranger to hardwork. She is a wife, a fulltime student, the CEO of kingdom barbees, a christian sororitity, and has now decided to add entrepreneur to her list of achievements. With a deep love and passion for fashion and people, Felicia created Her2 Cosmetics. Her2 Cosmetics is a lipstick and gloss line that uses 100% all natural products. Her2 makes all of her products by hand and allows customers to tailor them to their individual needs. Her2's mission is to provide customers with fun, beautiful, and lip safe products. All of our items are face friendly and NON toxic. Her2 creates lippies to bring out the SHE inside you.


Felicia Rosser-High is pictured wearing Kiss Me

1. How did you know that you were meant to go into business for yourself?

I began helping others at a very young age because I knew that I would someday become a business woman. As a child and teen I always had an urgency in my heart to help and care for people. It was not until I was twenty eight years old that I discovered that I had a real passion for making people feel good on the outside which eventually would effect their attitudes and how they feel on the inside. Her2 was created for that young lady who loves to wear lipstick but cannot afford the $20 lipstick all the time. It's not only affordable but it is of great quality.

2. When did you finally decide to start your business?

I decided to start my business May of 2013. Finally, I could no longer hold it in and keep it to myself. My passion was makeup. From personal experiences when I apply makeup even on a bad day, I feel great in spite of how I feel inside.

3. How did you come up with your company name?

Her2 is a name that is addressed to all women, no matter age or background. The name Her2 is very personal to anyone. I wanted a name that would not only invite my age group of ladies but all ages. Her2 is just not for me and you but it's for Her2. It's a name to let you as the customer know that yes you count too. You are not excluded or left out; we can cater to your wants.


4. What is your favorite aspect of creating make-up?

My favorite aspect of creating makeup is when people send their testimonials of how they loved the product and how they are excited to purchase more. Being able to make someone else happy makes me happy. Having the ability to design a product that is just for ladies is such an exciting feeling.

5. Do you have a signature color?How did you come up with it?

My signature color is called Barbee Pink, this is a vibrant pink which all of the ladies love. This color is very dear to me. I came up with the name through the Kingdom Barbee Christian sorority which I am the CEO of. The KB colors are Pink and purple.

6. Out of all of your lip stick colors, what is the current customer favorite?

The customers favorite color and the most sold is Barbee pink.

Felicia Rosser-High is pictured wearing Barbee Pink

7. What has been the best thing about owning your own business?

The best part of owning my own business (I can admit) its not the money! The best part is the effect that it makes on people. When I see someone feeling good and smiling with my product on, that makes me happy and in return it shows me that this is what it this business is all about. Being able to make someone smile. I could not always afford $20 lipsticks so I know how it feels to want and not be able to get. That is why Her2 is affordable for you and Her2.

8. What has been the most difficult thing in owning your own business?

The most difficult thing about owning my own business is time. From working full time and a full time college student majoring in business on top of Her2 Cosmetics, getting Lipsticks to the customers has been the hardest to keep up with.

9. If you had one piece of advice to give to other small business owners like yourself, what would it be?

My advice to new business owners is to NEVER GIVE UP. Believe in your vision and run with it. Know that every thing must first have a start. Take your start and run fast, work hard, and go hard.

10. Is there a blog, webpage or social networking site where we can find you?

You can find us on Instagram Her2Cosmetics is our name. You can also find us at our website Her2Cosmetics
.

Industry Expert: Kim Walker of Agape Artistry

An artist to the core, Kim Walker has been in the make-up industry for several years. She began in 2004 and officially launched Agape Artistry, LLC in 2011. With a deep love for drawing, painting, and color every face she touches becomes a true work of art. Agape Artistry offers Makeup Application, Makeup Check-up/Consultation/Lessons, Eyebrow Shaping/Waxing, Event Makeup Application, people empowering people and so much more!!! Take a read to find out more about the lady behind this awesome company.


Kim Walker

How did you become a make up artist?

After Art school in Delaware I wanted another trade. My mother suggested Cosmetology School. (I just wanted to learn how to do my own hair, never quite got there, giggles). The blessing was towards the end of school when we got to the makeup chapter and it just clicked for me. I was amazed at how makeup was just like painting and drawing on a canvas. This is where it all began.

Photo Credit: Imagnine If Photography

What is your creative process like? Do you have specific brainstorming sessions? Do you carry a notebook/sketchbook and write down ideas as they come?

I love sticky pads and note pads anything I can scribble an idea on. I post notes of inspiration in my bathroom, kitchen, desk and car. I keep a note pad with me wherever I go. The world is Art. I'm inspired by nature, objects, textures and I love color!!!

What made you decide to go into business for yourself?

I always wanted to work for myself. I have always had customer service jobs and enjoyed working with people. I wanted to use all of the experience I've acquired to do something positive for the world; my community.

What Research did you do before starting your business?

I studied all the companies I loved and what they did. I did the same for Artists I've looked up to and bought all their books. The best research however, was in failure. Finding out what didn't work helped me realize what did. I had to Learn what works for others wouldn't always necessarily work for me.


About how many clients do you have a month?

My clients vary monthly. Some months I'm swamped with weddings and others Maybe eyebrows on the weekend. I'm grateful for the highs and lows because it teaches me the definition of balance in life.

What is one major consistent goal you have for your business? How are you going about obtaining it?

The goal I have is to stay true to myself and my customers. I want to stay consistent at all times in my service to them. No matter how busy I get each person knows how grateful I am for them. I must keep this up by listening to there needs and keeping my Business simple.

Photo Credit: Imagine If Photography

With so many other make-up artists to choose from, that is what will makes a customer say "I'm going to Agape Artistry", What makes a person become a returning customer?

Love of people and Love of Art! That is part of my mission statement. Love has to be enough. When times are hard it's the Love for what I do that is contagious and shines through me.

If any, what experiences have you had as a Black American woman that has made your experience in the make-up industry more difficult? How did you overcome them?

I don't think my ethnicity makes what I do difficult. I do believe as an artist in any field you must use what you have to be a triple threat. I promised myself that I would learn how to apply makeup on all nationalities and genders. I want anyone to be able sit in my chair and know that I can achieve there needs. I remember meeting a stylist who said she would only do African American hair. I never forgot that statement and thought how she was limiting her talents and speaking that into her life. God created us all, who are we as professionals to turn someone away?

Photo Credit: Imagine If Photography

What advice do you have for beginning business owners?

Have a plan and work it! Study your craft always and never stop learning. Believe in yourself. Surround yourself with people who are doing the same or better. If you fall, get back up.

Where can people find you in order to view your portfolio and/or contact you for services?

Currently I'm on Facebook at Agapeartistryllc . Agapeartistry.com is coming soon. Or just give me a call directly at 609.521.6632.

Entrepreneurs On the Rise: ASOM Designs

Afro State Of Mine Designs, warmly known as ASOM DESIGNS, is an Afrocentric collection of wooden accessories & soon to be apparel tailored towards naturals & naturals at heart! This wonderful eclectic collection is the brain child of three fabulous young women. Kameeka Burke is the founder and paints as well, Kizon Marshall handles design and apparel and last but certainly not least, Krystal Miller handles fabrics and metals. To these three ladies creativity is a way of life. With that being their center every customer is sure to walk away with not just merchandise, but a work of art!

Left, Krystal Miller , Center, Kizon Marshall, Right, Kameeka Burke.

1. How did the three of you know that you were meant to go into business together?

Kameeka: Well when I came up with the idea I thought why not go into this with my two best friends! They are awesome and I wouldn’t want to do something like this without them. It was something that I had brought to them before so I knew they would go for it. It also gives us a chance to put ourselves out there creatively.

Krystal: That's easy. We all have similar goals and can all bring something unique to the table that could keep the business running. And if we don't know, we could find the answer! Lol

Kizon: Personally I had reservations but I’ve been friends with Meeka and Krys for the longest and trust them enough to go into business with them. Trust and faith are big things.

 2. When did you finally decide to start your business?

 Kameeka: It was about getting the money together for it first. I did small pieces as gifts to start off with to see how manageable it would be for our budget. I began building our inventory before we gave ourselves a set date to start.

Krystal: Everything really kicked off last fall. We’ve been talking about it for a while but the fire really got us moving when people started liking some of Meeka’s pieces and requesting to buy them.

Kizon: Last year lol but financially we just weren’t ready.

 3. How did you come up with your company name?

Kameeka: I wanted the business to be named Afro State of Mind but that name was already copyrighted, along with the ASOM acronym. To remedy that, I added the word Designs at the end.

Kizon: I was driving around with Meeka one day and we began to throw ideas at one another. We knew that ASOM was a rock band, and then there was Afro State of Mind to consider as well because it was a copyrighted YouTube series. Later on, my mother suggested we change the “Mind” to “Mine” and the rest is history, better yet HERstory.

Customized Couples Set

4. How did the three of you decide the role of each individual within your company?

Kameeka: I prefer hands on work. I like to paint and work with wood pieces. So that was my thing. I don’t usually have a set design in mind; it usually comes to me while I’m turning the wood in my hand. If someone can give me a set design for a custom order, that works great as well.

Krystal: We all have our different talents. I, for one, cannot paint or draw worth [at all] lol. However, I love fabrics so I started off with that and the fabric buttons/necklaces (still working on those necklaces). Eventually I’ll branch off to leather work and wires or maybe even some studs. It’s currently whatever my mind comes up with.

Kizon: I gave up drawing and painting once I graduated HS, I’m more of a digital art kind of person. My division is our upcoming Apparel line.

Fabric Button Set

 5. Out of all of your pieces, what is the current customer favorite?

Kameeka: Right now, we’ve been getting a lot of orders for out Afro Pick piece.

Krystal: From the time I put them up on the website, I’ve gotten great feedback for the button earrings. But, I think most people like the Afro heads and the “beauty” Adinkra.

Kizon: I’ve received a lot of questions/inquiries about the “Nefertiti Heads”

6. What has been the best thing about owning your own business?

Krystal: I think the feedback is the best part. It’s nice when people appreciate your work. And, even though it isn’t really about the money right now, the pocket change is nice, lol.

Kameeka: I agree with Krystal, I love the feedback. The compliments are great and it really makes me feel accomplished when we hear great things from other jewelry designers. When people say they are coming back for more or recommending us to their friends, it really makes my day.

Kizon: Knowing we had an idea and bringing it to life. The positive feedback and the loyal costumers (“started from the bottom…”)

Nefertiti Heads

7. What has been the most difficult thing in owning your own business?

Krystal: Legal work!! Lol. Starting a business legally is a real issue. It is a long and tedious issue. But it’s what you have to do…

Kameeka: Oh My Gosh... Networking! Trying to put ourselves on the map for small business is not an easy task. We’re going by random events, word of mouth, and the random searches on Google at the moment. Being featured by friends on their blogs is a plus, but we’re not mainstream or well-known so we have to work on getting our name out there.

Kizon: All of the above and the waiting (haha), waiting for the big break when the orders start rolling in.

8. If you had one piece of advice to give to other small business owners like yourself, what would it be?

 Kameeka: Try to set yourself apart from other designers as best as you can; be it by your pieces or your prices. I try to not get too pricey with our merchandise but we have to think about the fact that it’s all handmade, hand painted, and the supplies alone are not cheap. So I would advise someone to price accordingly and keep in mind whether or not they would willing to pay that much for the same item., If you’re not willing to pay that much, why would anyone else pay that much for your product?

Krystal: If you wouldn’t wear it, eat it, buy it in general, don’t invest in it. Every time we make pieces I always wonder “Would I wear it?” The thing that I love about our line is that it is a reflection of our personalities. Crazy, kooky, loud, cultural, everything. That’s us.

Kizon: At the end of the day if you’re truly passionate about it and want to share it and know that people will support it…. DO IT! But make sure all your ducks are in a row, financially, socially, and legally.

9. Is there a blog, webpage or social networking site where we can find you?
Instagram
Facebook
Etsy
Pinterest