Today we’d like to introduce you to Jeffrey Gilles
Jeffrey, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Every story begins with a fresh page, and for me, the journey of Next Chapter started with a simple but powerful idea: “You are the author of your own story.” This wasn’t just about clothing it was about creating a movement that inspires people to look forward and embrace life’s transitions, both the highs and the lows.
Next Chapter stands for so much more than a new outfit; it’s a reminder that life is full of milestones some we celebrate with joy, and others that push us to grow. It’s a birthday, a New Year’s resolution, graduating from college, an anniversary, or getting married. But it’s also the tough moments we don’t always talk about: moving on after a breakup, getting divorced, or ending a friendship.
No matter what chapter you’re in, the message remains the same look forward to what’s next.
Back in 2020, I went through a life changing experience that nearly cost me everything. I had a freak accident that left my right arm severely injured just above my wrist, it was sliced open, causing massive blood loss. I was rushed to the emergency room, where doctors had no choice but to perform emergency surgery. By the grace of God, the surgery was successful.
However, when I woke up, the doctors told me something that felt like a punch to the gut I wouldn’t be able to use my right arm for over a year due to the severe damage. At that moment, it felt like I had swallowed a heavy rock. My right hand was my dominant hand, the one I used for everything. Suddenly, simple tasks like brushing my teeth, picking up a spoon, or even writing my name became impossible. I went through an emotional and depressive state where I felt like giving up.
But deep down, something told me not to. Every night, I prayed for strength, held onto faith, and refused to accept defeat. I started physical therapy and pushed myself with at-home exercises. Little by little, I began to regain feeling in my arm. That small progress was enough to keep me going.
As I fought to regain my strength, I started reflecting on my journey. How could I use my experience to inspire others? How could I show people that no matter how tough things get, you should never give up? That’s when Next Chapter was born.
The adversity I faced became the push I needed to create this brand. If I had never gone through that life-altering moment, Next Chapter wouldn’t exist today. Now, I’m grateful to be here, sharing my story with others. Life can change in an instant one moment, everything is fine, and the next, everything turns upside down. But through it all, you have the power to write your next chapter.
In 2021, I had an incredible experience at an outdoor event called Buddha Fest in Exton, PA. It was all about health and wellness, featuring a 5K run, yoga sessions with hundreds of participants, and more than 75 vendors showcasing their businesses. I had the opportunity to connect with hundreds of people who took the time to support Next Chapter and join the movement.
One of the most powerful parts of the event was engaging with people and asking them, “What’s your next chapter?” The responses were nothing short of inspiring. Listening to their stories reminded me how a simple conversation can spark personal growth, inspire change, and motivate you to become the best version of yourself.
Next Chapter is also about transformation in areas like fitness and health. Every New Year, people set resolutions to live healthier lives. Starting your fitness journey is its own chapter moving from setting goals at the gym to embracing a lifestyle of strength and wellness. Health is wealth, and every step forward is a reminder of the power of discipline and self-care.
My own journey started at Invest Fest, where I walked the halls year after year with nothing but a duffel bag and a dream. By the fifth year, I had earned my spot as a vendor, sharing my brand and inspiring others to start their next chapter.
We’ve since launched products like cherry red pullovers, lavender crop sets, and the EL JEFE varsity jackets. But Next Chapter is more than clothing it’s a mindset. It’s about embracing life’s changes with confidence, knowing that every day is a new chance to grow and push forward.
We’ve even used our platform to give back, like with our breast cancer awareness T-shirts, proving that life is about more than just personal growth it’s about uplifting those around us.
The beauty of life is that it’s always moving forward, and so are we. The question is: What’s your next chapter?
For me, I know this is just the beginning. There are so many chapters still to be written, and the best part of the story is yet to come.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The lemons life has thrown at me on this journey have truly been a bittersweet experience. There were moments where I felt completely stuck with my brand days when I lost motivation because I was too focused on why I wasn’t getting enough views or why people didn’t seem interested. My brand wasn’t flashy like others, and that made me question everything.
There came a time when I had to step back and walk away not because I was giving up, but because I needed to find myself and rebuild. Deep down, I knew I had to rebrand and start fresh. One of my biggest struggles was trying to fund a business with little to no money. To make it even harder, people would constantly ask for discounts or free clothes, not understanding the sacrifices I was making.
I worked my tail off at my 9-to-5 just to fund my dream. Whatever it took, I did it. It wasn’t easy not even close but every sleepless night, every tough moment, and every setback was worth it. I kept pushing because I believed in my vision. Now, looking back, I realize that every obstacle was part of my growth. This journey has made me stronger, more resilient, and more determined than ever.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I attend various events to learn, grow, and connect with others. My specialty lies in life coaching engaging with people who may need a little push in life and guiding them toward making better decisions. I believe that a meaningful conversation can inspire change, offering a fresh perspective and motivating someone to see the endless possibilities in their life’s next chapter.
What sets me apart is that I’ve incorporated a positive brand into a lifestyle that everyone can relate to, regardless of race or age. I’ve created a brand that will always remain relevant representing growth and transformation across the past, present, and future. This brand is more than just a concept; it’s a movement that inspires people to embrace their next chapter in life.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
The quality I feel is most important to my success is staying in prayer and having faith. Without God, I wouldn’t have the opportunity to speak and connect with the amazing people I’ve met so far. Giving thanks and putting Him first is the foundation of my success. Every morning when I open my eyes, I start with prayer. I truly believe we have to understand that God can give, but He can also take away. Remaining humble and grateful keeps me grounded.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nextchapterofficial.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nextchapterbrand?igsh=bnJubnM4ZDZ6cXg0&utm_source=qr
- Twitter: https://x.com/nextchapterbran?s=21
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@nextchaptebrand?si=Q-avW4Psi0ca8wmv
Image Credits
Photographer @kdtheshooterr x @purelifekd
Photographer @adrianoquinones
Photographer @_brmmedia
