What inspired you to start your own business?

My business journey admittedly takes time.  My love for hats is always in me, as it starts with seeing my father at work.  As a creative (music), the presence and style he had evoke given his love for hats is passed on to me.  

As a business owner, what are your top three priorities?

My top priorities are maintaining a high level of integrity with my business dealings, being creative with a high-quality work product and through my faith, remaining thankful and grateful for the gifts bestowed upon me.  Integrity is central to all we do at 1820hats. 

How do you avoid burning out as an entrepreneur?

This is a good question, all of us are driven and focused, but at times, we can go a little too far.  For me, part of my routine which helps me is my prayer and meditation time.  That’s where I am able to take time each day to simply slow down my moving parts and maintain my focus and energy. 

What is the hardest part about growing your business?

As with anything, you have to regularly be a presence.  Ranging from your marketing, product placement and engagement opportunities with the media (including your outlet), the work at times feels like it’s never done! Thankfully, I don’t have to do everything myself.  Again, the hardest thing is being consistent.  When you understand a lack of consistency hurts you, then you maintain your focus and your team who you assemble to help you.

For a first-time buyer, what items would you recommend to purchase from your website?

All of them, lol.  Seriously, any of the collections would work for just about any buyer.  The Affirmations Collection provides the reminders of being purpose driven.  We know there is power within the tongue.  To speak (and read) works of empowerment, expression provide anyone with a regular reminder of speaking life and feeding into your spirit and soul.  The Freedom Collection and the Blossom Collection.

If your life had a theme song, what would it be?

There are a number of songs which speak to me, one that immediately comes to mind is “It’s Working” by William Murphy.  For far too long, I got in my own way and allowed others who may not have fully grasped what is inside me to divert me from pursuing my passion and other creative growth opportunities.

What discontinued food/drink do you miss the most?

I don’t know if it’s discontinued or hard to find.  While, I’m not the biggest soda drinker, a cool glass of Cheerwine soda would work for me. 

What is something you would never buy used?

Socks.  I don’t know why that came to mind, but I would have to get my own pair from the store or sock man on the corner, lol.

Who do you love more than anything in this world?

Beyond my relationship with God, my parents, siblings, relatives and close friends who regularly speak life into me are the people I love the most.

Do you have any bad habits that are holding you back from reaching your goals?

At times, I may not always have the focus I need or I may really get drained (even though I am getting better with my balance).  I’m grateful again for the people who are placed in my life who want the best for me.  Their energy, spirit and positive vibes help, when at times we can all use a lift or a positive shift and redirection.

What’s one thing you would like to get better at over the next year?

I simply want to continue to seek out the creative opportunities to allow our brand to grow.  We are working on additional merchandise and attire for men and women beyond the fedoras, so stay tuned.  As the Grover Washington, Jr./Patti LaBelle collaboration notes, “The best is yet to come”.

How can everyone keep in contact with you on social media?

To stay connected with us on social media, simply add 1820hats on Facebook and Instagram.  You may also visit our website at 1820hats.com for our complete (and updating) fedoras for men and women and future releases.