Conversations with the Inspiring Dortea Mitchell

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dortea Mitchell.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Dortea. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Growing up in a single-parent home did not afford me the kind of lifestyle I dreamed of having as a child. My mother couldn’t take us on extended vacations or buy the clothes that I’d seen on television and in magazines. So, I promised myself that I would someday afford myself those opportunities. I’m so grateful that I could set goals for myself and accomplish them. I’ve always had a love for fashion and travel. I have been sharing my fashion and travel experiences on my personal Facebook page for years. Although I absolutely love taking pictures, I had never considered becoming a blogger; I was just posting for fun. My relatives, friends, and colleagues would ask me for fashion or travel advice, even people I’ve met through social media have reached out. I kept hearing, “You need to start a blog,” so after a few people reached out to me about starting a blog, I did just that. I decided to name my blog Dortea Patrice, which is my first and middle name. I launched Dortea Patrice three months ago because I wanted to create a space where I could be creative and express myself through my passions. I’m a new blogger, so I still have a lot to learn, but I’m excited about this journey. I’ve always wanted to work in fashion, whether it’s being a personal shopper, starting my own boutique, or being a designer. My goal for 2019 is to become a content influencer and a brand ambassador.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
No, it has not been smooth, but the joy of knowing I’m creating a brand is exciting and fun! There have been several nights where I’m up late prepping looks for a photo shoot, which I love, typing a blog post or studying to master my craft. I’ve never been tech-savvy, so using social media has been my biggest challenge, but I’m learning and growing as I go. My advice for other women or anyone who wants to embark on this journey would be, do your research and when obstacles come find solutions, fail until you succeed, but giving up is NOT an option.

Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
Dortea Patrice is a fashion and travel blog. I inspire women through my fashion and travel experiences. I’m known for taking inexpensive, good quality pieces, and pair them in such a way that it looks chic and elegant as if I broke the bank when indeed, it was very cost effective. I don’t have a particular style, I wear what makes me feel good. Although, I love designer accessories, I shop everywhere from boutiques to consignments. I want women to know that fashion is affordable. What sets me apart from others is, I have a heart for women to be whole. It’s not just about the fashion or travel, it’s about self-love, having self-confidence, knowing your self-worth, knowing who you are and what you want to accomplish, not compromising, be willing to make the necessary sacrifices and putting in the hard work to achieve your goals. Being whole internally reflects externally. I’m proud that I stepped out on faith and created a space that will make an impact. God created all of us to be uniquely different. Being my authentic self, sets me apart from others!

What do you feel are the biggest barriers today to female leadership, in your industry or generally?
Sadly, in the 21st century, we are still dealing with race and gender bias. Even today’s society, we still find those who persist in promoting a disparity in the status of women and men in any industry. Unfortunately, these are the biggest barriers. In times past, females having a voice or an opinion was frowned upon. However, now, through social media, we have an outlet to speak out, share, and express ourselves to the world.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.dorteapatrice.com
• Email: dorteapatrice@gmail.com
• Instagram: dortea_patrice
• Facebook: @dorteapatriceblog

Image Credit:
Mallori Brooke Photography LLC

Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.