Today we’d like to introduce you to TaJiah Gary.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Truth is it kind of just happened. I started my first business journey selling swimsuits, clothing, handbags, and jewelry, at the age of 16, and I just recently launched my second venture last September, which is a fitness line. I am now 18 and I can confidently say that starting an enterprise was one of the best decisions that I have ever made in my life. I feel extremely blessed to have two successful businesses that offer me unique opportunities such as being able to purchase my first car on my own and to give back to my community around me. When I was in lower and middle school, I could always remember wanting a job. I remember not being able to wait until I was old enough to work somewhere, literally anywhere that would take me. I think I enjoyed the idea of working because it gave me a sense of maturity and independence.
I knew that starting a business would be an extensive responsibility, but I was definitely up for the challenge. Within the first year of my starting my company, I got a great deal of positive feedback, but I knew I could do much better. I began to realize that I must now strategize and think outside the box. I often found myself constantly thinking, what can I change to improve my business for the next time around? Thankfully, I eventually found the answer, which required much critical thinking, and I am still working towards discovering other possible solutions because there is always room for improvement. Throughout this journey, I have come to this understanding that failure is simply a part of succeeding. I must fail to essentially get where I want to be, and failure is inevitable. Running a business is a mind game that I just had to figure out on my own. I can say that owning a business has truly taught me responsibility and independence. I am my own accountant, my own secretary, my own marketer, literally my own everything. I have had my ups and downs with my business, but I can now say that I am thankful to be at a point where I understand what works and what does not.
Like anyone who owns a business, I have lost money in the process of starting, but I can say that it has changed me for the better. I now understand the true value of money, and it is easier for me to save my money on things that really matter. I understand the importance of having a good work ethic and working for the things I want in life because nothing worth having in life comes easy. I believe that my business has also humbled me in many aspects of life, for which I am very thankful. I can say that I have learned that the best thing I ever invested in truly was myself, and I hope that others can learn that from me as I work towards paving the way for young entrepreneurs. I am happy to announce that I will be launching my very first custom clothing line this fall. I am so excited to show the world what I have in store.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Running a business has definitely not been a smooth road. Nothing about business is a smooth road, so it takes a lot of perseverance. I’ve lost a lot of money in the process just like any business owner, but a wise entrepreneur understands that you’ve gotta spend money in order to make money. now understand the true value of money, and it is easier for me to save my money on things that really matter. I understand the importance of having a good work ethic and working for the things I want in life because nothing worth having in life comes easy. I believe that my business has also humbled me in many aspects of life, for which I am very thankful. I can say that I have learned that the best thing I ever invested in truly was myself, and I hope that others can learn that from me as I work towards paving the way for young entrepreneurs.
Shop Tease, Bodied & Jior – what should we know? What do you do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I own Shop Tease, which is a swimsuit line full of a variety of different types of swimsuits, including men.
I also own a fitness company by the name of Bodied by TaJiah, I sell workout waist trimmers, as well as workout and meal plans in the near future.
In addition, I will be launching my first custom clothing line, Jior. It will be full of custom clothing including swimsuits, this will also include men’s clothing. Jior will be my biggest project coming in the soon fall.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
I define success as contentment. Contentment with your dream or passion. Success isn’t even just about being rich, it’s about being content with the impact that you dream has had on the world and your life.
Contact Info:
- Website: shop-tease.com
- Email: tajiahgary1@gmail.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/tajiahgary
- Twitter: @tajiahgary
Image Credit:
@RIOUSSHOTME
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