Hidden Gems: Meet Cortlan White of Crown and Cross Apparel and Cortlan Enterprises, LLC

Today we’d like to introduce you to Cortlan White

Hi Cortlan, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My journey began in Detroit, where I developed a strong sense of community and a desire to uplift others. I earned a BBA from the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business, which laid the foundation for my business career.

After graduation, I spent six years at Target in various roles, including Inventory Management, Property Management, and Procurement. These experiences provided me with a comprehensive understanding of brands, from conception to store shelves. Eager to expand my horizons, I pursued an MBA at Duke University.

Upon earning my MBA, I became a business operations manager at Honeywell, where I honed my leadership skills and learned the intricacies of running a business. I then returned to Target as a sourcing manager, focusing on developing private label brands (Threshold) and design partnerships (Studio McGee and Hearth & Hand with Magnolia). Leveraging my corporate experiences and fueled by my passion for entrepreneurship and community service, I launched my real estate business and my clothing brand, Crown and Cross Apparel. Each step of my journey has been dedicated to bringing people together and fostering growth—both personally and professionally—rooted in my faith and commitment to serving others.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road. Like many others, I’ve faced significant challenges along the way. One of the biggest hurdles has been managing the demands of working full-time while finding time to grow my businesses. Balancing these responsibilities often felt overwhelming, requiring careful time management and commitment.

Transitioning from corporate environments to entrepreneurship also brought its own difficulties, including navigating uncertainty and adapting quickly to changing circumstances. There were moments of self-doubt, especially when launching my clothing brand and real estate business. However, each struggle has been a valuable learning experience, strengthening my resilience and deepening my commitment to my faith.

Through it all, my relationship with Christ has kept me grounded and helped me overcome any challenges.

As you know, we’re big fans of Crown and Cross Apparel and Cortlan Enterprises, LLC. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I am dedicated to helping individuals and families achieve their dreams—whether that’s finding the perfect home or expressing their faith through fashion.

As a licensed Georgia realtor, I specialize in new construction homes. This niche allows me to offer clients a unique advantage: a less competitive market, better interest rates, and the opportunity to personalize their new home with design selections. My mission is to guide clients in finding their dream homes while also building generational wealth through real estate investment.

On the fashion front, I am the founder and CEO of Crown and Cross, a Christian clothing brand designed to inspire faith-based conversations. Our collection features comfortable hoodies and hats that serve as daily reminders to pick up your cross and walk with Jesus. Each piece encourages wearers to express their faith boldly and engage with others about their beliefs.

What sets us apart is our commitment to quality and purpose. In real estate, I focus on personalized service and a deep understanding of the new construction process. With Crown and Cross, we aim to create more than just clothing; we want to foster community and dialogue around faith.

I am most proud of the impact both businesses have on people’s lives. Helping clients find homes where memories will be made and encouraging believers to wear their faith with pride are both incredibly fulfilling. Whether you’re looking to buy a home or want to wear your faith with style, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Starting out on your entrepreneurial journey can be both exciting and daunting. Here are a few pieces of advice that I wish I had known when I began:

Just Start: Don’t wait for the perfect moment or all the pieces to fall into place. Taking that first step is crucial. You’ll learn and adapt along the way.

Assess Your Risk Tolerance: Determine the amount of money you’re willing to lose on your journey. Understanding your financial boundaries will help you make more informed decisions and mitigate risks.

Build a Support System: Surround yourself with a network that lifts you up. Celebrate your wins together and lean on each other during tough times. Having a solid support system can make a significant difference.

Change Your Ecosystem: Connect with like-minded individuals who share your vision and goals. Being around the right people can inspire and motivate you to keep pushing forward.

Be Discerning with Your Vision: Not everyone will understand or be equipped to handle your dreams. Choose wisely whom you share your vision with, and focus on those who support and uplift you.

Trust in God: Most importantly, lean on your faith. Trust in God’s plan and submit to His will. This spiritual grounding will provide you with strength and clarity throughout your journey.

Embrace the process, stay resilient, and remember that every step you take is part of your growth.

Pricing:

• Hoodies range between $40 and $60
• Hats range between $15 and $30
• Real Estate Consultation – Free
• Real Estate Commission 2% to 3%

Contact Info:

• Website: https://crownandcrossapparel.myshopify.com/
• Instagram: personal: https://www.instagram.com/courtingwithcortlan/ | real estate: https://www.instagram.com/closewithcortlan/ | clothing brand: https://www.instagram.com/crownandcrossapparel/

Image Credits
AJ Davis
Amoriss Arlyce
Daphne Ikola
Greg Ciceron