Meet Naiya Cunningham

Today we’d like to introduce you to Naiya Cunningham.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I started So Heartless as The Heartless Kollection in 9th grade which was manly clothing and accessories. There were MANY ups and downs with me still being in school but I definitely worked through it. My 11th-grade year, I started So Street Accessories which was designer headbands, bonnets, and durags. Along with a couple more items, basically just streetwear. Also, during my 11th-grade year, I started Heartless Xtensions which was going to be just hair and mink extensions but I want to try something else which would be makeup and ponytails.

Honestly, the promotions that I did got me where I am today. My favorite promotion that I’ve ever done was with Ari (@therealkylesister) with my custom cases from Heartless and my accessories from so street.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Well, owning two businesses while still in high school and being 17 is not as easy as you think. It’s definitely some sleepless nights when I have to answer emails, pack up orders or plan for the next season. Also, with me being 17, certain things can’t get done because I’m still considered a minor. I think the MAIN struggle was me being in high school while trying to do so much, but honestly, it was all worth it! This is my last year, so I definitely will be more hands-on with my business!

We’d love to hear more about your business.
My businesses are known for having great quality items for the best prices. So Heartless sells clothing and accessories (purses, fur slides and more). Heartless is also known for the custom cases as stated before I sent Ari 5-6 custom cases and she posted them on her Instagram and I gained A LOT of orders and new customers that night. That was really the best business day for me honestly. So Street is known for its great quality items for amazing prices. Everyone loves the scarfs and headbands, Ari also promoted that page she LOVES so streets items! I am very proud of my growth within these months because it didn’t really take that long for me to get up there, I put so much work and dedication into my business that it’s just crazy. My business is my life. I think what sets me apart from others is the fact that I love interacting with my followers/customers/supporters. I love doing giveaways, getting on live answering questions, giving out business advice here and there. I’m just a very helpful and nice person and I love when everyone around me is winning and eating, not just me.

What were you like growing up?
I was a very nice child growing up. I’m one of the sweetest people you will meet because that’s just me! I have a very fun and playful personality, I also love to make the people around me laugh. I love being happy myself if you ask anyone that I’m close with, they will definitely tell you that I can’t stay mad for long. My thing is you only live once, and why should I spend a lifetime mad over something so simple?

Contact Info:

• Website: ShopSoHeartless.Com / SoStreetAccessories.Net
• Phone: Heartless – (435) 200-3528 / So Street – (415) 766-7363
• Email: shopsoheartless@gmail.com / sostreetaccessories@gmail.com
• Instagram: @ShopSoHeartless / @SoStreetAccessories

Image Credit:
@thatsbawselife

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