Today we’d like to introduce you to Gabrielle Hickmon.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Gabrielle. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
If you ask my parents, I’ve been writing and artistic my entire life. Whenever I go home, I realize they are right. My current businesses The Reign XY, and my personal writing (freelance + book) were just born out of stories I wanted to tell but didn’t see. RXY started when I was in college because my friends and I didn’t see where the conversations we were having and things we were experiencing existed on the internet – something that by then we can come to use almost constantly. My book was born from both a dare and personal need to heal. My freelance projects have been a combination of both sharing stories and ideas I think are missing from the conversation and hopefully opening up pathways for others to do the same.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Yes and no.
I would call the road smooth in that my interest in storytelling and writing has never waived. But there have absolutely been obstacles. Mindset & priorities being huge ones at different times. I know I’m not the only one out there that has gotten in their own way. Self-doubt has been a huge barrier. I don’t give myself enough credit.
Money is also huge. This venture isn’t funded by a VC firm or grants yet so trying to make things work and not derail what you’ve got personally going on can be hard.
I also now live abroad (by choice) so while not an obstacle, staying in tune with what’s happening in the States which is my primary market is more challenging than before.
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
At the end of the day, I’m a writer.
Whether it’s for The Reign XY as Founder & Publisher, ‘sunny.’ my book, or freelance, I specialize in writing pieces that make folks feel and think.
I believe RXY is unique and set apart because we provide value to readers without preaching at them. Many have said the content across our offerings and verticals feels like you’re sitting in a room discussing something with your girlfriend. It’s a safe and but also sassy and fun space – striking that balance is something I think we do uniquely well.
‘Sunny.’ will have you in your feelings. Period. But, it will also help you work through them and process not only how you’re showing up for and with others in relationship, but how you’re showing up for and with yourself.
I’m most proud of the way my personality shines through in everything I do and the light these ventures bring to and help others find within themselves. People really trust our opinions and recommendations. People trust us with their stories as well. The community might be just beginning, but we’re on solid ground and I’m proud of that – the authenticity and community we’ve built. That sets us apart.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
I’m in a season of restructuring. Taking a step back from hyper-production to be more intentional and strategic. Folks can anticipate some branding changes and consistency when stuff comes back. I don’t want to jump back in until I’m really ready.
I’m looking forward to being in the States in 2020 for a while and taking things offline. I’m looking forward to abundance and all the opportunities that will bring for the businesses and others.
Contact Info:
- Website: thereignxy.com, gabriellehickmon.com
- Email: gabrielle@gabriellehickmon.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/thereignxy, instagram.com/gabbyhickmon
- Twitter: twitter.com/thereignxy, twitter.com/gabbyhickmon
Image Credit:
Reggie Cunningham, Damola Akintunde, Jusna Ninah
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