Today we’d like to introduce you to Johnny Lewis.
Hi Johnny, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself and telling us how your journey began?
In 2013, I was studying accounting at Florida A&M University. I always wanted to own my own business but wasn’t sure which path I would take. I spoke to my father, who was alive at the time, and I expressed to him my interest in starting a business. He gave me a few ideas, but there was one that caught my attention – shoe rental. I had never considered this idea but thought it could be lucrative, especially for those with expensive tastes and limited budgets. I worked with a close friend, Tahir Daudier, to create the name and first draft of the logo then Funxions Footwear, LLC was formed to supply luxury footwear for rental which would allow people to enjoy more styles that were previously out of budget. In 2014, I began attending Georgia State University where I met Tony Dennis, owner of Tote & Carry, Stitches Design Studio, and No Names. I interned at Stitches and partnered with “The Stitch Doctor” to create a few promotional items to sale.
After vending at a few events and researching various brands, I realized I could actually design and create many of these styles myself. At that time, I also began a new spiritual journey, and I wanted to establish a brand that could tie natural elements with various forms of art and luxurious tastes. In 2016, the brand Funxui was established to supply men/women streetwear and contemporary styles. I purchased a few sewing classes and books, then after ordering sewing machines, equipment, and supplies, I began my cut and sew journey. I then began hand-crafting various garments and offered them for pre-order on our website. We were featured in the fashion boutique House of Fresh, owned by music producer Drummer Boy. After COVID, our production slowed down and put many previously set plans to a halt. Currently, our website is the primary option to our customers to shop, but we are exploring various avenues for expansion both domestically…and internationally.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
I cannot say it’s been a smooth road. Securing funding for various projects was challenging, but we were able to persevere. Since life goes on outside of business, it’s sometimes difficult to balance personal/professional obligations and creative pursuits. I believe once we find a true balance in all aspects of our time/energy, there lies true happiness and contentment.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am currently in the tax/accounting field and create for my brand part-time. I am currently a Tax Amendment Consultant for ADP where I help different businesses process late payroll tax returns and amendments. I have been in the accounting/tax world for about six years now and have done bookkeeping, individual and corporate tax, tax planning, and payroll processing. I am most of proud of the extensive experience I have gained in the field and how I am able to apply it to my business and personal development. I believe my versatility and creativity sets me apart from others. To me, accounting is a dry black & white, calculated concept, and my fashion brand is a box of crayons coming to bring color to the world. I feel it’s advantageous to be able to know how to abide and color within the lines but also know how to think freely where there are no lines at all.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
In 5-10 years, I see the fashion industry becoming more sustainable and tech-driven. The sustainability in technological advancements will continuously alter how clothing is made and disposed of. More are considering comfort when compared to the appeal of a new silhouette, but with the incorporation of new sustainable materials, it gives the consumer a new experience when analyzing suitability.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.funxui.com
- Instagram: @funxui
