Today we’d like to introduce you to Angel Burns.
Hi Angel, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My story has many layers, but I will lead with the idea that I have always been a dreamer. Since I was a child, I recall sharing some of my creative ideas with my mother and using random sheets of paper to draw outfits. During high school, I won my senior superlative of “Best dressed, ” that was a clear indicator that I was on to something (insert giggle). This reference will make sense a little later! Outside of clothing, I was always involved in some type of sport. I began racing the neighbors’ children on the dirt roads of my small hometown, and later it translated to me being a part of various school sports teams. Let me be clear, I wasn’t the record breaker, but I was the person that would show up on time, with a positive attitude and I worked hard. A few activities would include cheerleading, basketball and my all time favorite track and field. My experience led to a growing passion to always be the healthiest version of myself. I have the power and the fortitude to ensure that I do my part and keep my body healthy and strong. Beyond college, I taught Zumba in my early 20’s. This was my first group training experience and I had so much fun. People would ask me for advice to further their fitness journey and gain best practices on staying healthy. I eventually onboarded with a Fortune 15 company that led me down a path to learn even more about myself. I gained so much experience in branding, organization, leadership, customer experience and presentation. During this time, I saved to accumulate funds; permitting me to invest in the brand that I present today.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Smooth road is far from the truth. However, I am so grateful for all of the trials because my obstacles truly built the foundation behind my brand. The premise behind the name is to show up authentically (FREE + TRUE). There are so many beautiful people walking this earth every day. I encourage everyone, at every phase of their fitness journey to be proud of themselves; walk upright and bold, not to be boastful, but to present your “best self” every day. Most of the struggles that I experienced were internal, but I kept pushing. It took several years to launch my brand. Sometimes, I have to fight through the ideology of perfection, just wanting everything to work the way that I envisioned. Guess what, no matter how much you plan, life will sometimes say otherwise, and that’s okay. The goal is to have a vision, yet be dynamic enough to ride the wave. I push through by constantly investing in my personal growth, keeping my business tight and protecting my circle of people. This has opened the door for even more connections and opportunities to build out the brand.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I have been in the telecommunications industry for a decade now. I’ve worn multiple hats including various leadership roles. I have learned and grown so much as a leader, which has positioned me to be a competitor in this marketplace. My corporate experience is now being translated to build my own brand and providing THE BEST experience. My passion for fitness and overall health still drives me. I am building a sustainable brand that stands firm on three principles, diversity, integrity and health. This athleisure brand is different for two major reasons. We are coming into the marketplace with original designs. You won’t see the same designs anywhere else. Everything is customized from the inseam to the print that you see on all of our sets. We will also be adding to this wellness brand, creating a community where people can network, hear from experts in the health field as well as other resources that will be available in the future. FREE + TRUE (the + is silent) is marked by our slogan, “Dressing you from the inside out!” I welcome everyone to join our community. Right now our product line features women’s clothing, we have plans to offer male products as well. I encourage everyone to support the brand. I must add that we are looking for new team members to expand our marketing department and ambassadors to promote the brand.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
A ton of people in my tribe have rallied around me. I do not credit one person, but acknowledge a community of people; some whom I have never met that continue to support me daily. My family shows me unwavering support also. I come from a strong lineage. Inspiration finds me and I am constantly receiving soft reminders that I am doing the right thing daily. I truly get excited about every single order and include a personal note with each purchase. I encourage everyone to follow the brand and let’s create a wave within the fitness space. True Quality athleisure wear that’s suitable for a day in the gym or on the go. Be sure to follow me on my social platforms !
Contact Info:
- Email: hello@freetrueapparel.com
- Website: www.freetrueapparel.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/freetrueapparel
- Facebook: facebook.com/freetrueapparel
- Other: instagram.com/iamearthangel
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