Today we’d like to introduce you to Zoie Palmer.
Zoie, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
My story began in the city of Jackson, Mississippi on May 21, 1997. From there, I was then raised in Atlanta, GA and eventually even lived in San Diego, CA with my mom and her wife. I never really lived a “typical” life. My father is an entrepreneur who has owned his own salon for more than 30 years. My mom and her wife both work in the entertainment industry so a normal Tuesday night for me would be spent at a barbershop watching the games or at a concert, listening party, or even at the radio station doing voice overs. This sparked my interest in the entertainment industry. I have been blessed to be exposed to things in life that not everyone can say they have experienced. When I was about 16, I began modeling for a company called Step into Style Boutique which is owned and ran by my older sister, Chenelle Loggins. From there, I knew that modeling could be a way for me to put my face out into the world to eventually create an empire and brand of my own. My mom modeled in her 20’s and we would even watch America’s Next Top Model throughout my childhood and I would strut my best walk while my mom gave me scores, tips, and pointers.
At age 20, I moved back to California and decided to take a break from school due to being a survivor of sexual assault, and put my focus into my modeling career and other entrepreneurial endeavors. I self-published my first poetry and photography book on Amazon entitled “Standing in Destiny” which is a compilation of poems and photos by myself that I used as a healing technique during a very dark time in my life. Along with this, my modeling career began to excel. In one short year I accomplished walking in LA Fashion week, being published in a magazine, and being part of a national campaign all as an independent model. Honestly, it was extremely difficult because I am my own team. I do my own hair, makeup, styling, marketing, and management. Juggling so many roles can be difficult, but as a 5’6″ model it was extremely hard trying to find an agency to represent me so I took it upon myself to put in the work. I recently moved back to Atlanta, GA this year and I began my company ForcëTrend (Force-A-Trend) in order to provide trends that are rare, but eye-catching, because that is what I believe myself to be.
I also wanted to start my company so that I can create a space for opportunity of representation for young models like myself who are struggling to get booked. I have plans to start a few more businesses that everyone should stay tuned for as well as plans to publish another book in the near future. Though this life has been rewarding, it definitely has not been easy but my takeaway is this- life is meant to be lived and loved and we were put here to do just that. Despite what is thrown my way, I will turn my darkness into light and nothing will deter me from standing in my destiny. I hope anyone reading this will have the love and strength to also stand in their destiny fearlessly.
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?
It has not been smooth at all. I have had struggles to get casted or booked because I am “too short” for runway and “too thick” for print. In addition to this, I have struggled mentally. I went through a couple of traumatizing events in my childhood that led to me being diagnosed with depression and anxiety. While I was in college, I survived a sexual assault incident which worsened my depression and anxiety to the point where I did not leave the house for months. Eventually with a lot of therapy and support from my mom, dad, and other family members I was able to get back on my feet. I have also struggled financially. There are times when I had to decide if I wanted to take a risk and use my bill money to restock inventory or prepare for a booking. I always go in with the attitude that the risks and obstacles will be worth the reward of success.
We’d love to hear more about the company.
$ForcëTrend (Force-A-Trend) is an accessory and apparel company geared towards bringing out every person’s “inner baddie.” We want our products to make everyone unleash their inner confidence while flaunting their fashions. I specially chose the company name to have ten digits with a dollar sign and the beginning as to manifest it into a billion-dollar business. Also, “Forcë” translates into “strength” and I wanted to include that because not only do I feel that I am a very strong person, but I also want to promote strength especially during such a difficult year that we are all experiencing. I am most proud of the connections the I have been able to make with my customers. I love communicating with them through DM about their own personal stories and giving them words of strength to use to keep them going. ForcëTrend is not just a brand, but an experience. That is what sets us apart from everyone else.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I do not believe in luck. I come from a very spiritual family and they have always taught me that luck does not exist. Only preparation, hard work, and blessings. I believe that wholeheartedly.
Pricing:
- Anklet: $13
- Shades: $15-$20
- Earrings: $12-$14
Contact Info:
- Website: shopforcetrend.com
- Email: shopforcetrend@gmail.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/shopforcetrend
Image Credit:
Quintin Carson
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