Today we’d like to introduce you to Alaina Pinkney and Brianna Robinson.
Alaina and Brianna, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Our Family African business began in March of 1996 with our grandmother Ms. Yates, she is the owner, operator, and decision-maker for the past couple of decades.
The physical address of this store has always remained in the same location since opening and has maintained the standard of carrying unique African attire and accessories. Ms. Yates added her own touch by creating custom pieces for children, families and sometimes for local churches within the area. Year-round clients look for us because we are constantly offering a new and intriquette prints that allow for your own person look.
During those decades my sister (Brianna Robinson) and myself (Alaina Pinkney) would assist throughout the busy seasons as she needed. During those years my sister was completing her undergraduate degree and I was working as an AR Manager. Throughout the years we met and learned of all the lives Ms. Yates touched every season we assisted her; she has maintained a loving presence within this tight-knit community. As years have passed people from all over come looking for Ms. Yates.
However, about two years ago our grandmother became ill and the business was in danger of closing. At this time we were more concerned with the health of our grandmother but also understood how important her local business was to her. Around or about January 2017, I (Alaina) decided to switch gears and work full time with the family; we reopened our doors and with help of my sister (Brianna), we are now, maintaining the family business. With our assistance we now have a website, are on all major social handles, ship throughout the U.S. and service our local customer with the same smile Ms. Yates greeted them with daily.
Our grandmother is in better health these days and stops in as frequently as she can. Unable to resume working, she is happy to know that we are able to take care of everything allowing her to rest and not worry.
Has it been a smooth road?
Nothing in life is ever smooth. There have been some tough periods and with the assistance of our Main Location (The Formalwear store 20729 NW 2 Ave – Our parents own this location), we are able to get through most, if any type of day.
Our initial issue was customers not having access to the custom garments and changes in policy. Once our grandmother had stepped out of the business she then required the clock care. As a family that then meant we had to make decisions regarding the future of the business. We were met with resistance at first, but now offer referrals to local shops that provide this service. Our compromise is we offer alterations for any item purchased in store, and we always keep fabric on hand for those in search of a print.
2 Cute African Store – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I am head of daily operations and business development, my sister assists in all social media areas. We are known for our reasonable prices and longevity. I am most proud of the fact that as a small black-owned business, we have remained a standing positive location that can assist with all Afrocentric needs.
We stand apart by remaining within the community and offering ‘One Of A Kind’ garments year-round. Most of what we carry is only available in two units, so once it’s gone, it’s gone. We then change or switch prints or styles meaning that you ALWAYS leave with a unique garment or accessory.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I grew up in Miami Gardens, which is no more than a skip or hop from North Miami. I love that this city is always busy! I believe we can all agree about not liking the traffic some days.
Contact Info:
- Address: 14135 NW 7th Ave
North Miami, FL 33168
(North Miami Flea Market) - Website: www.ybe928.com
- Phone: 7862715177
- Email: 2cuteafricanstore@gmail.com
- Instagram: 2cuteafricanstore
- Facebook: 2 Cute African Store
- Twitter: 2CuteAfrican
- Yelp: 2 Cute African Store
Image Credit:
Alaina Pinkney
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