Today we’d like to introduce you to Latrice Monét.
Hi Latrice, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
After graduating from the illustrious Florida A&M University, I began my career as a licensed pharmacist working in the private and government sectors of the pharmaceutical industry. After learning about and experiencing holistic health practices such as acupuncture, sensory deprivation floating, reiki, and chiropractic therapy, I gradually became the pharmacist who never recommended drugs first. If a friend said, “My head has been hurting all day,” my first question would be, “How much water are you drinking?”. I began to realize that the business aspect of the pharmaceutical industry did not align with my values in empowering my family and community to truly heal rather than simply medicate. So, I went back to school to get my Executive MBA in search of my next step.
Upon completing my degree from the University of Maryland, I knew I wanted to wear a pair of cowboy boots across the stage. Unfortunately, my shopping experience at the major western retail stores left much to be desired – some associates intentionally ignored me. I felt like an outsider, and I knew I couldn’t be the only person of color experiencing mistreatment when shopping for western apparel. After deep reflection and contemplation, I came to understand the issue went far beyond customer service. It was a reflection of a much greater problem: people of color weren’t being seen, acknowledged, or welcomed in a culture that we helped build. Our stories, our history, and our presence were missing from the western fashion landscape.
That experience inspired me to create a space where Black and Brown people could feel represented, respected, and connected—a place where the true legacy of the Western Frontier could be honored. That moment became part of the foundation for The Original Cowboy Club, a brand rooted in inclusion, cultural storytelling, and reclaiming the narratives that have always been ours.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Not at all! Entrepreneurship is by far the roughest terrain I’ve ever experienced. It challenges your mental, emotional, and spiritual being. Believing in a vision despite how current circumstances appear, despite naysayers, and despite fear itself has been my greatest test—and my greatest teacher. I’m still working to be more patient with myself and the process of growing a business organically. So much of what we see and portray on social media is instant gratification or instant results, but the real work is showing up everyday and doing the work. I find inspiration in reading the stories of cowboys like Nat Love, Bill Pickett, and Bass Reeves. Their perseverance and ingenuity reminds me that I come from a lineage of resilience and brilliance. They faced unimaginable challenges with courage and creativity, and that legacy fuels me to keep pushing forward, build community, and honor the history that shaped us.
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?
The Original Cowboy Club (OCC) is a cultural movement dedicated to reclaiming and celebrating the often-overlooked history of Black and Brown cowboys, cowgirls, and homesteaders who shaped the American West. Through apparel, curated experiences, and community storytelling, we bring visibility to the true legacy of the Western Frontier—one rooted in resilience, skill, and cultural richness.
We specialize in western-inspired fashion, community-centered events, and educational storytelling. Our apparel isn’t just clothing; it’s conversation-starting art that honors the original heroes of the frontier. People often tell us that wearing OCC pieces sparks meaningful dialogue, pride, and connection—and that’s exactly the point.
In addition to the brand, I co-founded Cowboy Cupid, an intentional event series centered on connection, joy, and cultural representation. We host elevated social experiences for singles who want meaningful and authentic connection. Through line dancing, mixers, fashion showcases, and interactive activities, our events create genuine opportunities for people to meet and engage.
What sets us apart is our commitment to authenticity and narrative ownership. We’re not just inspired by Western aesthetics; we are actively restoring the truth of who the West really belonged to. Our work stands at the intersection of history, fashion, and community. For readers, I want you to know that OCC and Cowboy Cupid are a celebration of culture. If you appreciate authenticity, representation, and meaningful connection, grab an OCC tee at Lmonet444.com and meet us at the next Cowboy Cupid event! We look forward to seeing you!
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Something surprising that most people don’t know is that I’m deeply analytical behind the scenes. Before building The Original Cowboy Club and co-founding Cowboy Cupid, I spent years leading cross-functional teams, managing investigational drug review teams, and developing programs in highly structured environments. That experience gave me the discipline, strategy, and operational mindset that powers the creative side of my work.
Most people see the Western aesthetic, the events, and the creativity, but they don’t always realize there’s a scientist, strategist, and educator behind it all. That blend of creativity and strategy is what allows me to build experiences that feel soulful, seamless, and community-centered.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Lmonet444.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lmonet444/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LMONET444
Image Credits
Creative Mindz
Ty Pleas
