Today we’d like to introduce you to OG Diplomat.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’ve always had a passion for clothes I think it comes from my mother being a seamstress and seeing her make clothes and costumes for me when I was a kid. I’ve also been drawing since I was 4 or 5, so I’ve always had that love for creating art. My father has been a prominent entrepreneur throughout my life, so when I was 12, he mentioned to me and my brother about how this mother and son duo became millionaires by creating a clothing brand called “Johnny Cupcakes.” It was then he challenged us to come up with something that could do the same. That’s when I came up with my first brand Illuminate. I didn’t do much with my brand during my middle school & high school years due to me being so focused on sports, but it was something I knew I always was going get back to. So once I got to Tuskegee, I went all the way in with it and launched “Illuminate The Brand.” I used my first brand as a stepping stone and a learning experience for me. Once I became more polished, did my research, acquired more knowledge and experience within the industry. I transitioned ITB more into my graphic and logo design company, and I launched my current apparel brand, “Pistols & PalmTrees™️.”
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Not at all!! Lol. However, “without struggle, there is no progress.” So I would more so call them lessons. I had to learn that in order for me to reach that level I aspire to make it to in this game, I had to start investing 100% of my time and money into this industry. I had to sit down and do my research on fabrics, materials, warehouses, screen printing, embroidery, embossing, etc. I had no knowledge of these things prior to this. I also had to deal with not having the resources in the city that I’m from, let alone in Tuskegee, Al. I had to figure out ways to fund my business as well because I launched my brand while in college, where I’m not making consistent income. I also had to had to learn about packaging, logistics, deadlines, quality control, and customer service. I also had to deal with keeping my faith and spirits high when business is slow and product isn’t selling. These are things nobody tells you about when you hop in the game however all of these experiences are very necessary because it gives you and your story substance, and experience is always the best teacher.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in designing graphics and logos. I also do vinyl heat press and sublimation. This year I plan to really start using my sewing machine and begin doing more cut & sewn pieces. I would say what I am most proud of is my growth. Just thinking about where I was when I started in this industry and where I am now, I’ve made leaps and bounds with my skill sets and my knowledge of the fashion industry. I’m still learning and growing every year but throughout everything, I’m still striving and prospering and that’s what I love the most. I think what separates me from others is that I was artist before I started doing clothing and apparel. So I’ve never had to really ask anyone todo designs for me and I never felt like I wouldn’t be able to bring my pieces to life the way I wanted because I’m the one doing all the designs. I also think my ability to tell a story through the clothing and explain what inspired me to make the clothing sets me apart.
Pricing:
- Logo Rate starts at: $100
- Clothing & Apparel: $15- $120
Contact Info:
- Email: pistolsnpalmtrees97@gmail.com
- Website: https://www.pnpno.us/
- Instagram: @og_diplomat @pnp.u.s
- Twitter: @0gDiplomat @PNPUS
Image Credits
Takenby$ilk
