Today we’d like to introduce you to Andy Smith.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
The story of how I became an owner of my own clothing line is an unexpected one, but I believe it fell in place exactly how God planned it. Ever since I was little, I always wanted to find a way to bring better for myself and my family. Seeing my parents literally live paycheck to paycheck would bother me to the point where I promised my mom I would buy her that dream house that she always wanted before I really even knew how. Growing up, I had the typical NBA dream and thought that my passion in basketball would lead me to the league one day. Once I hit high school, I realized that this dream wouldn’t be possible so I picked up on another one of my passions: music. Writing and creating music has always been a safe haven for me where I can express myself freely and show my creations to the world. Thanks to music, it allowed me to start creating merch based off my music. At first, I didn’t really take it serious and I viewed these clothes I designed as a quick come up to fund my music.
Very quickly, I realized this could be more than just a quick hustle and that I could expand myself and bring a positive message to the world. That’s why about two years later, I started this clothing line (SheKnowsApparel) with our slogan being to ‘LOVE LOUDLY’. On December 30th, 2019 I lost my friend and a big inspiration to lots of people Bryce Gowdy. I couldn’t help but to think maybe there was something I could say or something I could do that could’ve saved him. Ever since his passing away, a day doesn’t pass by where I think how important it is to show people we love them loudly before it’s too late. So here I am today, hoping I’m making him proud and constantly promoting an important message through my clothing.
Has it been a smooth road?
When you truly care about something you’re doing and you’re a perfectionist like I am, the road will never be smooth. For the most part, I had to self teach myself the business of a clothing line and that came with many hiccups and setbacks. Thankfully, I had people like Aaliayh from Kizzy Apparel to give me some tips and pointers on how to put myself in a position to win. Most of the struggles I had were based off finding the right people to put my designs and ideas to life. Though it was hard, I have some of the best supporters and support team and they keep me motivated to keep on pushing despite the hard circumstances.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with SheKnowsApparel – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
My business is a black-owned clothing line named SheKnowsApparel which focuses on the mission of ‘Loving Loudly’. I pride myself on being versatile and being able to do anything I put my mind to, so I don’t claim a specialty but I do promise anything I create will be special. For right now, I believe I’m most known for my ‘Serene Scenes’ Hoodies which was my debut release. I have so much more I want to show the world though and my next release will definitely provide that. The thing I’m most proud of is that not only that my clothing looks great, but when you put it on it portrays an important message to the world. I believe that’s what also separates me from others. Many people start businesses just to be trendy but I actually have a meaning and a purpose behind my clothing line.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I love everything about the city of Miami, that’s where I was born and lived for a few years before I moved down to Broward. Miami is such a lively city that has its own flavor and grit to it. Everyone from Miami goes super crazy for people from their city so whether it be our sports teams, artists, or anything in between Miami loves their own!
Pricing:
- SheKnowsApparel ‘Serene Scenes’ Hoodies – $35
Contact Info:
- Website: www.sheknowsapparel.com
- Email: sheknowsapparel@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sheknowsapparel/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/sheknowsapparel
Image Credit:
Joshua Harris
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