Today we’d like to introduce you to Patwanda Parks.
Patwanda, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I started my clothing brand in the 11th grade of high school. I came up with my brand name from my grandmother of the nickname she gave me Spank which is my brand name backward, Over the years I had my ups and downs within my business, but I can continue to strive to express my creativity. My brand consists of streetwear and urban wear items for all target audience. Besides marketing my product, I started events in Atlanta and Huntsville area such as Pop-Up shops and Fashion shows to promote myself and other brands in Atlanta/Alabama area. I got where I am today by staying dedicated and motivated for the people around me. Knaps Clothing will open several businesses around the USA.
Has it been a smooth road?
It has been a rocky road and challenges for my business due to loss of my father in 2017. Also, feeling discouraged on the path of my dream and not staying consistent. Over time I learned to balance and take things step by step because what’s for you is always for you. Always keep God first.
Also, I had struggles with sales not selling items and slowness of business but I’m still dedicated and making room for improvement.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Knaps Clothing story. Tell us more about the business.
Knaps Clothing is a streetwear/urban collection that defined creativity through fashion by different sayings and quotes of logo choose for product. I try design clothes for meaning and motivation such as one of my logos daily grind or hustle for what you want. All clothes are hoodies, sweats, t-shirts, and hats, etc.
I stand apart because I’m taking fashion to whole another level by not only focus on my business but helping others that has the same dreams/goals as me. I try to get together all small black businesses to network and give off ideas/creativity all in one.
I am mostly proud of my business because I’m staying dedicated having my business since high school and still growing now.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
I see my industry in the next five years different clothing stores with my brand name around the U.S. and hosting serval of events giving back and connecting with people all of the world.
I want Knaps in the NYFW and big event across the world.
I want to see over a thousand people in my clothing in the next five years.
Also, targeting every audience and not just focus on my age range.
Contact Info:
- Website: Knaps.bigcartel.com
- Phone: 6786971572
Image Credit:
Personal photo: @Lancepiristudios, Some Images: Mondre: @aretestudios_, Other Images: Makiya Photots
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