Today we’d like to introduce you to Kiana Ware.
Kiana, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
BeWare Designs, formerly 2Ware4u, started off as a homegrown t-shirt company. V. was an artist in school and began painting shirts with fabric paint as early as Middle School. After a while friends became customers and the passion transformed into a business. Over the years services offered have expanded with everything design-based including custom graphics, digital logos, commissioned artwork, illustrations, paintings, home decor, furniture and footwear.
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?
The journey has definitely been a rough one with moments of plateaus that I can sit back and enjoy. Entrepreneurial endeavors are a marathon, not a sprint. I’ve fumbled a few bags and missed out on some potentially big opportunities simply because I took a job when I wasn’t ready. But one thing I’ve discovered is even the failures are a part of my journey. And I still feel blessed that someone thought I was ready for an opportunity that I truly wasn’t. I use those moments as my motivators to keep going.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
For me, what sets me apart is that I’m an artist first. I don’t have a limit on the types of jobs I take on and that’s what I pride myself in. I’ve done custom furniture pieces for people, commissioned paintings for a house, or murals for a sports team. I’m most proud of the versatility I have as an artist to not be placed in a box.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Well first and foremost, my grandmother, who I named my business after deserves all the credit for molding me as a woman and even more importantly, as a woman of color who can create. My ability to run my business and take on projects wouldn’t be what it is if it wasn’t for her.
My friends who have shown support have also been a huge motivator. By supporting my business or even just helping with pop-up shows, having that support system is key when following your passion.
The rest of my family has contributed in so many ways whether it be inspiration, contributing to my business, or just showing up at events to show support. I could go for days about how the WareHouse is really built on the Salonga-Ware family ties.
Pricing:
- 15.00 – Shirts, Masks, Shorts
- 25.00 – Melanated Shirts
- 50.00 – Matching Sets
- 50.00 – 1750.00 – Commissioned Paintings
Contact Info:
- Website: www.bewaredesigns.com/our-story-pedro
- Instagram: officialbewaredesigns
Image Credits
Teresa Johnson BeWare Designs Slaton Photos
