Today we’d like to introduce you to Cierra J.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
While growing up in the suburbs of Cincinnati Ohio, I often felt I didn’t fit in. My peers would make negative remarks about the complexion of my skin, I was constantly told I was beautiful for a “dark-skinned girl” as if women with darker complexions did not fit within society’s beauty standards.
I was often told the lighter someone’s skin the more beautiful they were.
I began to notice colorism was a problem in various ethnic backgrounds and I wasn’t the only one dealing with the issue. After graduating from college and earning a Dual bachelors in International Business and Marketing, I made a vow to create a brand with a purpose, something that would unite women, encourage and promote self-validity. This is where The Melanin Bar was born. I took a leap of faith, moved away from my family and made Atlanta my home. I have since held multiple meetups and women’s empowerment events around the area.
Melanin Bar is not only a store but a creative haven; housing various collections, pictorial projects, enforcing community service and unity among women.
Melanin Bar is a place that celebrates the BRWN and AMBITIOUS GIRL.
Has it been a smooth road?
Creating Melanin Bar has been extremely difficult. I moved to Atlanta with my best friend at the time right after college, we were excited about our journey and where life would take us. In just a few months of being in GA, I began networking. My brand was creating a buzz & I was moving up the corporate ladder with my 9-5.
I was in a very good place… but not long after… things weren’t going that well for my roommate, so she unexpectedly moved back home and left me with ALL OF OUR BILLS. This was a low point for me. There were bills in her name that I did not have the access to pay and one day, I came home from work to find my power had been disconnected. I cried so hard. At this very moment, I decided no matter what I would never give up on my dream. I would continue to empower people and walk in my purpose with my company. I was left in a bad situation, but.. I PUSHED THROUGH. This situation fueled my fire for Melanin Bar and brought me closer to GOD.
To be transparent, I am continuously overcoming obstacles with my business. It can get overwhelming… but I never give up. I know my struggles are preparing me for what God has in store for my future.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Melanin Bar is a brand with a purpose. We use clothing to empower the masses. With our creative t-shirt designs and collections, we create statement pieces that encourage self-love and motivates others to focus on their dreams
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Atlanta has been amazing to me. Living in Atlanta has allowed me to collaborate with extremely talented like-minded creatives. Dr8nn multimedia, Click Mani and Shot by YM are photographers I have connected with since living here. They believed in my brand. Each of them helped me create dope content to take my brand to the next level… I am forever grateful.
I also have connected and worked with so many amazing entrepreneurs. Cidenna of Cid Tour, Leah Hernandez of Try God Co., Milan Amani of We are the New Atlanta, Youtubers Kay & Kosh and a bunch more. I would highly recommend starting out here to anyone. No matter your purpose or passion… there are so many networking opportunities here.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.themelaninbar.com
- Email: melaninbar@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melaninbar_/?hl=en
Image Credit:
Dr8nn Multimedia, Click Mani Photography, Polo Mutt
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