Community Highlights: Meet Shannon Woods

Today we’d like to introduce you to Shannon Woods.

Hi Shannon, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I worked in retail for several years, selling men’s clothing. Over time I began to realize that customers had become completely dependent upon my recommendations on clothing before they would purchase them. It made me realize that it wasn’t the store that brought value to me, but it was I who brought value to the store. I decided to move on from working for someone else and jumped into entrepreneurship. When I started, I was solely online, then I started doing home consultations and now I am preparing for the grand opening of my clothier. I got to where I am today by a lot of sweat equity and turning the suit buying process into an experience rather than a basic transaction.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Things have been as smooth as can be, considering we are in the middle of a pandemic. When making house calls, I have to be sure to follow the guidelines for COVID-19 and still make the consultation as memorable and as safe as possible.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
In my hometown, I am referred to as “Dapper Shan.” I personally selected that name as a way to pay respect to THE Dapper Dan in Harlem, New York. He is someone that I have great admiration for. His picture hangs in my clothier. I specialize in tailoring custom suits for men and women. I am known for dressing well, I wear a suit everyday and when asked why do I do so I jokingly reply, “Would you trust a contractor who didn’t own a hammer? My suits are my business card.” I don’t speak on our brands because I am 100% focused on building my own so I can’t speak on what separates me from others, but I will say this, suits is something that I am very passionate about and building long-lasting relationships with my clients is as equally important. What I am most proud of is the rate of speed in which the business has grown in such a short amount of time. My clothier will offer an experience during the suit buying process that will make it fun and memorable.

Who else deserves credit in your story?
My wife Philicia, cousin Gary Woods and other family members for always encouraging me to follow my dreams, my kids who still love me in spite of the long hours I work, my friends Rio McFly & Tamarkus Cook, who were anxiously awaiting the launch of this business so they could show their support and especially Genene Green-Miller who several years ago gave me a subscription of GQ magazines and unknowingly sent me down a path that I still walk today.

Contact Info:

• Email: dappershan@gmail.com
• Website: www.dappershan.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/donethedapperway/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheDapperShanWay

Image Credits
Maurice Ligon (Maurice Ligon Photography )