Today we’d like to introduce you to Colleen Moore.
Colleen, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
The Crown Up was an idea that sparked from a conversation with my six years old daughter, Kimora, who is also my business partner. She has been a contestant in several pageants in Atlanta and in Jacksonville, Florida. There were a few times she went home empty-handed and it made her feel very sad. I would always tell her to keep her Crown Up and Smile, reminding her that she will always be a winner if she keeps going.
Watching her improve, watching her confidence rise overtime, it inspired me. One day I just thought to myself, I should create something to inspire other young children and help boost their self-esteem. Growing up, I was bullied as a child for having dark skin, so I know firsthand how much that can ruin your self-confidence. And still today we live in a time where colorism and bullying is a major problem. So, I started sketching ideas alongside my daughter, faces of beautiful brown children. I knew I wanted these children to be full of joy, self-love, motivation, determination, all while wearing their crowns up. We joined forces with William Boston, who owns Sivart Graphix, and decided to start with a children’s apparel line first. We started in August of 2019, so far it has been a success and we are excited to reveal more products.
Great, 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?
I would say I’ve faced a few insecurities. Starting your own brand is scary in the beginning, so I was not always confident at first. We’re living in a time where labels matter and not everyone is into local brands. I didn’t know how people would receive it or if they would understand the purpose behind it. When I realized it was my own way of thinking that was holding me back, I had to change that. I allowed my passion to overstep my fears and I’m still pushing. Because I believe in my brand so much, others have supported me wholeheartedly. The more and more I overcome my fears the more ideas come to mind, which excites me.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about The Crown Up – what should we know?
The Crown Up is inspiring the youth to always wear their crowns up high and rock it with style. Besides our apparel Line, we are a growing online boutique, and we are hosting fun events for the youth. Our overall goal is to make sure our youth feel empowered. We want to be a support system for young girls and boys who struggle with low self-esteem issues. We are determined to create an atmosphere soon, where they can feel safe and loved. I am very proud of the work that has been done to put a smile on each child’s face. I am hoping that our business success grows and that we can motivate someone else to do their part for the youth.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
I’m an effective role model, honest, caring, ambitious, and most importantly, I am unselfish. All those things have contributed to my success in my personal and professional life. I know that I will go far on my journey because I always choose to stick by my morals and values. I believe in treating people with respect, love and always listening to what they have to say. It’s not always about me, in fact, it’s bigger than me.
Contact Info:
- Email: thecrownup@gmail.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/thecrownup
- Facebook: facebook.com/thecrownupboutique
- Twitter: twitter.com/thecrownup1
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