Today we’d like to introduce you to Chase Mays and Tasheira Parker.
Hi Chase, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Our apparel line was born out of the desire to create a brand that highlights all black and brown individuals, every feature and every quality because we deserve to be celebrated and to feel beautiful. There are a number of influences that contributed to the birth our apparel line. For instance, I have a beautiful partner that has always been extremely proud of who she is and what she looks like, from her hair to her skin, which moved me to also be proud of who I am and what I look like. It was like a celebration that I never knew I needed. In my earlier years, having a darker skin tone than my family brought feelings of uncertainty and insecurity but through many different walks of life and continued self-love, I have learned to love and embrace my skin, every part of it. We are a brand that prides ourselves in inclusivity, positivity, self-love and the celebration of US. Some of us were never told how beautiful we are or how to celebrate ourselves. That is no personal fault of our own, so we shouldn’t keep on toughing it out, we need to take the time to acknowledge who we are and the beauty of our skin. Our brand takes the thinking out of the equation and takes the time to say what goes unsaid. We are 2BlkWomen Apparel, we are hustlers by default, we are DOPE on purpose and our skin has always BEEN in.
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?
Of course, the road could have been smoother but what is a journey without of few bumps in the road? Obstacles that we encountered were simply understanding the nature of producing a legitimate business and the layers of legal jargon, taxes, fees and quality vendors. When pursuing a business, it requires time, research and going the extra mile. I am the Creative Mind in our business and my partner is the “brains” or the CFO of the operation. So the ideas for phrases and meanings are instant for me but in order to create a business, we had to ensure that we checked a lot boxes before going public. From trademarking, creating a website and accepting orders, everything was detailed and done meticulously to ensure that we came out on top. What we have learned is that when operating a business, you never stop learning; there will always be a more efficient way to produce content, gain and reach followers and fund your business. The obstacles were present, but time and research smoothed the challenges away. We’ve learned to appreciate the bumps in the road.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I have always been told that I have great ideas but I never really pursued of them out of fear or rejection. Oddly enough, a lot my ideas can come from any interaction with the general public – from being a Special Needs Pre-K teacher to being a High School Basketball coach. I am inspired by people and what the world needs more of. I like to people watch just get a glimpse of what could be happening in someone else’s of life and in that small moment, I have a million ideas of what my new design could be, from the color scheme to fonts and the purpose of the message. My ideas are endless, which guarantees that 2BlkWomen Apparel has more to come! I have been in scenarios where I’ve expressed my ideas and they haven’t been received well; that is not a sign of defeat for me- it is literally a mental note that there are more ways to make money and the value of keeping your ideas to yourself.
I am most proud of being able to start a successful business during a pandemic. Only being in business for five months and still on the rise gives me even more inspiration to keep pushing and to create generational wealth despite any circumstance. What sets me apart from others is my ability to blend and observe. Every conversation isn’t meant to be heard and ideas are born out of desire. In being a creator, I cannot forget to acknowledge the one who does all of the research, handles all of the paperwork and legal jargon – she is the behind-the-scenes connoisseur. My partner, Tasheira is the most intelligent soul that you will ever encounter, she is easy to talk to but will keep you on your toes with her inquisitive nature. She is the backbone of this operation and I could have never done all of this without her.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
LIFE. Being able to wake up everyday and do what I love on my own terms and in my own time.
Pricing:
- EST. All My Life Hustle – $25
- Dope Femxle Hoodie – $40
- My Skin Been In – $25
Contact Info:
- Email: 2blkwomen@gmail.com
- Website: www.2blkwomenapparel.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/2BlkWomenApparel
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/2BlkWomenApparel
Image Credits
2BlkWomen Apparel
