a brand that tells the powerful story of rising from adversity to become bold, beautiful, and blessed. Inspired by her personal journey from being a “diamond in the rough” to embracing her true beauty, Vanessa’s brand encourages self-affirmation with messages like “I AM Fearfully and Wonderfully Made!” Through her global influence, she empowers others to unleash their boldness and triumph over life’s challenges, all NSpiteOf adversity.
What inspired you to start your business, and how has your journey been as an African American woman entrepreneur?
I started NSpiteOf inspirational clothing brand during COVID-19. I started noticing that mental health was on the rise due parents being at home from work because of shut downs and kids being out of school. I wanted parents to know it’s okbto not be okay NSpiteOf life challenges and they will make it NSpite Of!
The journey was easy when I started NSpite Of because I used my life as an inspiration. I wanted to be clear on who my target was and made sure I was focused on the right audience. I inspired myself because of the challenges I had faced as a teen mom, being homeless, and divorced. This made me connect with my audience on a person level and I wanted my clothing brand to reflect that.
How does your business impact and support the African American community, and what initiatives are you most proud of?
The impact my brand has had on the African American community is hope. It has created different attitudes of courage, faith and triumph. When people wear my clothes, they feel what the words say, not just wear it. It inspired them and me too! As a community liason, I’ve been able to advocate in various communities locally to speak and give hope though my clothing. I’ve been to: recovery homes, community based programs that cater to those dealing with autism and the homeless population. My thought process is, You can’t understand what a person goes through, if you’ve not walked in the shoes.
What challenges have you faced in your entrepreneurial journey, and how have you overcome them?
As a small business owner, in general, most deal with many issues especially when it comes to online businesses. Myself personally, I would worry about making sales the most. I learned really fast it’s not the ones we expect to support us, it’s those who you really are supposed to serve who will buy. They connect to your story, your brand and the the product. I had to make sure I was marketing my clothing brand through the right social media platforms where the people I wanted to reach could see it. This also helped me to overcome being shy and to share what I had.
What advice would you give to other African American women who are aspiring to start a business?
To start a business I would say:
If there was one thing you could change, in regards to your entrepreneurship Journey, what would it be?
Compose your own question based on something you would like to share in your article.
How would you handle a personal breakdown and still maintain your presence and push to keep your business going?
The importance of having the right team or a community that helps you grow your business and vision. People God sends to help you when you are low or don’t know how to do something.
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