I would like to thank Josephine Bankole for making this interview possible.

Who thought t-shirts could motivate people into losing weight or spending time in the gym.

YHP had the privilege of doing a quick interview with olu Johnson, founder of the get hench or die trying brand, a company that started from the gym.

Hope you enjoy the interview

Hello Olu! Thank You for giving YHP your time. How are you today?

I’m fine thanks for asking, and thank you for having me on here.

Can you give us some brief background information about yourself?

I am 26 years old, Nigerian born and British bred(I am bi-lingual). I am a graduate of Law. I am currently a trainee lawyer and junior manager for a company in the Rail sector!

Please, start off with giving us just a little info on who you are and what you do…Where did the concept for “Get Hench” come from?

The concept for the Get Hench brand came from a training session in the gym . After a period of about 6-8 months that my friend Shayne and I had trained intensely to be unquestionably the henchest guys in our local gym, we started training some of the younger boys in the gym who asked for help. During one of the sessions, one of the youths, Tavell, said ‘I didn’t come here to die, I’m not on this get hench or die trying sh**’. Everybody laughed but me, it occured to me that that was his perception of our attitude towards training and I thought we could sell that image.

How long did it take the “Get Hench” to get up and running, how many of you running it are there and where is it currently in operation?

I’m not one for procrastinating so when I had the idea, within a week I had samples selling like hot cakes and then my problem was I needed more t-shirts to meet my demands. A month later, I had funding and we were off the ground. There are three people in charge of the brand. Somehow I ended up being the posterboy/spokesperson of the executive group.

How did you fund your business in the beginning?

Initially, I funded the business by myself. I paid for all the samples to be done recouping my costs as I went along. When I needed funding to do things on a larger scale, I went to people I knew had the type of money I was looking for.. I was quite fortunate that I only had to speak to one person. The pitch wasn’t perfect but the evidence of the potential and the enthusiasm I had were obvious and I think that helped a great deal.

When would you say, you first experienced your entrepreneurial talent?

I first experienced my entrepreneurial talent when I sold homeworks at school. It only happened a few times but I was excited that I was trading……or maybe it was that I was getting money that I could spend on sweets etc. Either way, I always seized any opportunity I had since then to make a sale.

What types of setbacks have you encountered? How would you say you deal with them?

The biggest setback I’ve encountered is other people. That includes people I’m working with(my camp) or people working with me(outsiders). No one else will be as reliable or as enthusiastic as I will about my products therefore I have learnt to anticipate non-performance of duties by others and have a backup plan.

Sometimes, it is life itself that gets in the way. Everyone does what they’re supposed to and then it snows or rains or floods or there is an outbreak of swine flu or events get cancelled or something drastic interrupts ones plans. When that happens, all you can do is mitigate your losses if you have any and have the strength of character to continue with your plan.

You recently climbed a mountain, what the motive behind it was?

I recently climbed the highest mountain in England (Scafell Pike) for Breast Cancer Research UK. The motivation for me to do it was two-fold. One, I wanted to do something for a charity and Cancer Research was the obvious choice for me because I lost my biological mother to cancer. Two, I wanted to do something unusual for me and that I would find difficult and extremely challenging. The mountain climb was it.

I had no training for it and made no preparations just because I didn’t have the time(work & everyday commitiments). It was an immense achievement for me. Conquering the mountain reboosted my belief in my ability to conquer other ‘mounatins’, some of which the Get Hench brand presents.

If you could change one thing about your business what would you change?

If I could make any changes, I cant definitely say it would be to the business itself. Perhaps maybe to contacts I’ve had/used and prices I’ve paid. (Always check to see if someone is willing to beat your current price in order to gain your custom)

Finally, what “wisdom words” do you have for young entrepreneurs of today?

‘Words of Wisdom’ – Always do what you’ve said you will do, even if it is to your inconvenience. The reason for this is that your integrity matters in business and people will judge you on it(it is a very small world and people talk). Also, don’t be afraid to ask for things(reductions in price, funding, deals, extras……whatever).

The worst a person could say is no and that does not leave you in a worse position than you were in prior to. Finally, don’t discriminate on who you sell your product to(you don’t have to like them). Every person you snub is potential profit you push away………..in addition, make every single customer feel like they are the reason you’re doing what you’re doing. You will always get repeat business.

Thanks for your time olu

No problem.

Get in touch with him on facebook

Today, I’m with a young entrepreneur inspiring people to be themselves by starting a clothing line, Be You! Apparel and he is only 18 years of age! Hey Cameron, Thanks for taking the time to do this interview with me, Welcome to YHP, How you doing?

I’m doing good thanks a little annoyed that it’ freezing cold and raining again but I guess that’s the British weather for you *laughs*

Before we jump right in, Can you give us some background information about yourself?

Basically, I’m an up & coming designer studying Fashion at College. I started designing about 3 years ago, Creating custom Myspace layouts then slowly moved onto T-shirt designs as I had a little experience printing T-shirts using a heat press and then finally I moved onto working on my own brand

Is this your first company?

I used to have a clothing company before called ‘Imah Flyboy’ & ‘Imah Flygurl’ which was running for about a year or so until I saw the designs on another person’s page when I stopped, but I had Be You! Apparel in the wings at the time so this didn’t really phase me at all and I just moved on.

How did you come up with the idea to start a business?

As I used to print T-shirts and such, I thought it would be easier to have a brand that had the clothes printed in a factory then me doing it manually, which was very time consuming and got in the way of college.

How did your business get off the ground?

Basically after many months of research into printers & stockists I finally found someone who could tend to our needs and just took a big risk and went on from there.

Who are your target customers?

Our customers are mostly the Younger crowd (13-24yrs) although some of the garments produced can be worn on literally anyone hence the name ‘’Be You!’’

Why the name Be You!. Did it have to do with something you were going through at the time?

I’ve always got my biggest inspiration from my surroundings and at that time I was seeing a lot of people who were very fake. I call Be You! ‘’The Honest Brand’’ because we focus on the three true aspects of people which I have interpreted as “Arrogance, Vanity, Selfishness”, so these are the 3 main elements of the brand. To ‘Be You!’ is to be truthful to your true personality.

How did you raise money to start the business?

At the time I started I was employed so I used most of my pay as well money I had saved up and invested it all into starting Be You! Apparel. If I’m honest finding finance to start up and then expand a business has to be one of the hardest challenges every young entrepreneur has to face.

You recently turned 18, how did you get into business so early?

Having studied business during Secondary school, I had a healthy introduction to business grasping the basics quite easily and once I got into college I tried to keep myself up to date with different businesses and how they were running.

What do customers say when they find out you are so young?

Most of my customers are my age so they’re quite impressed but it doesn’t really phase them though they are surprised just for the simple fact that around South West London, there is a lack of designers, we’re more the musical side of London… so seeing someone doing something different then music to get themselve’s out there is quite rare.

How do you deal with the legal aspects of running a business? Who helps you with contracts, paying taxes, and so on?

Most of the legal aspects are covered by Lucas (PR & Marketing) who has experience from running previous companies with those issues and so luckily I don’t have to worry too much about them! *laughs*

How has the journey been so far for you?

The journey has been quite bumpy, nothing I wasn’t expecting but the only problem that has arisen is raising awareness and lately funding for expansion and this has made the journey quite hard but as they say ‘Everything that’s worth having is worth fighting for’ -and no that’s not from the Cheryl Cole song-

How many people are involved in the company at the moment?

At the moment, there’s Me (C.E.O), Lucas (PR & Marketing), Nathan (Head of Promotions) & Joshua (Head of Sales)

What was the most challenging part of starting the business?

The lack of confidence… the constant mind changes, I was very aware of other people’s views on everything and I just kept changing my mind.

What has been your most successful method in advertising the brand so far?

The most successful method by far has got to be advertising with the Facebook page and groups. If I’m honest at the moment social networking accounts for virtually all our advertising and without I doubt whether our brand or for that matter many other brands would be able to operate as effectively or even exist. Social networking has truly revolutionised the internet and opened up a world of social connections and free advertising… as you can probably tell I’m a big fan of social networks!

How do you balance college and also running a business? How do you manage your time?

This has by far been the most hardest aspect of running the business, because if I’m honest, the business has come in the way of college many a times, as I’ve always got my blackberry I’m mostly connected to everyone in the business all day, so that helped defeat the communication problem. I manage my time to deal with business from Thursday to Tuesday as my college week finishes on Thursday.

So what should we be expecting next from you? University? Your business?

Yeah, university is just around the corner and to be honest I really can’t wait, I’ll be studying Business at Uni to just update me on everything I need to know before I start working on getting Be You! worldwide. We should be releasing a shop with Freakological in the next year or so called ‘Be Freaky’ and last but not least, the Summer series, where we will release a new line of products every month of the summer.

What was the biggest mistake you’ve made and what did you learn from it?

The biggest mistake was bringing out a “collection” of clothes instead of just releasing 1 design on a different range of garments. After seeing the demand for certain designs which I couldn’t tend to I had to scrap the collections. I’ve learnt that as the brand is still in an introductory state, a collection is too much selection.

What advice do you have for young entrepreneurs who are getting started in business?

Start a business because you have a PASSION for it, don’t do it just for money or because you see other people doing it, a business has to have a meaning.

Do you have a favourite quote?

“Enjoy who you are. Don’t hate yourself for what you aren’t” I only came across this quote quite recently, but it just relates to the brand in so many ways.

What was the biggest lesson you learned in secondary school that applies to our generation?

I think that it’s only at secondary school where you start to understand that people are going to look at the same things and events you do and form completely different opinions then you did and be able to justify their opinion just as well as you do yours. So I would say that the biggest lesson you learn at secondary school is that everyone is going to have their own opinion about something and that just because their opinion is different from yours doesn’t necessarily mean its wrong after all everyone has the right to be themselves.

Who do you think could be really good role models for teens, and why?

To be honest although they often get a lot of flak I would say young actors like for example Jamie Bell are good role models, they’re successful but they only got there by hard work –yes believe me acting is hard work It’s not anywhere as easy as it looks I know I tried it at GCSE and it was NOT easy- determination and taking risks. Business wise I would say business guru’s like Richard Branson and my personal inspiration Tomoaki ‘Nigo’ Nagao –founder of BAPE Clothing- are also good role models for teenagers and in fact for anyone; like all successful people they were persistent in their efforts to be successful and they were willing to take risks and put everything on the line and look where it got them!

How important is family support for a young entrepreneur?

Family support is important, but at the same time the only person you can really rely on is yourself, so even without family, as long as you have the passion and the right dreams, the world is your oyster!

Any plans to expand the current business?

We are hoping to rebrand the first t-shirts we brought out as ‘Be You! Originals’ and bring out a new series called the ‘Good Times’ Series but any further plans for expansion are on hold while we look for additional investment so we can expand without taking too much of a risk.

What are the sites, social networks or groups a young entrepreneur should join or follow to get advice?

Well obviously there’s the big ones like Facebook which is invaluable for any entrepreneur because of the connections you can make on it and the free promotional opportunities it offers.

Myspace especially if the young entrepreneur is or wants to be involved in the Music or fashion industry and Twitter which is great for networking and quickly starting and learning about trends as well as you know… just following people that inspire you.

Aside from those I would recommend http://cmypitch.com/ a great website which allows you to make a video pitch available to hundreds of potential investors and http://www.enterpriseuk.org a social networking site for young entrepreneurs.

Of course I would also recommend that young entrepreneurs set up their own website especially if they are going to be involved in retail for example we have an account with bigcartel a site that provides a hassle free platform for clothing companies and other small businesses to sell their products without much in the way of monthly fees or ‘hidden’ costs. So as you can probably see there’s lots of opportunities out there for young entrepreneurs to use the internet as a key component of their business.

Thank you for your time Cameron, hope you have you back on the platform in the future.

University of Edingburg Graduate Benjamin Benton is the 26 year old entrepreneur behind Huxley clothing, after leaving university in 2007, Benjamin secured a job working for a hedge fund in London.

He said “It was a choice between working long hours analysing spreadsheets and data in order to make other people rich and successful, or working longer hours, on my own, to get my business off the ground”. Huxley clothing was born in February 2009 with investments from friends and family.

He then added that he had the opportunity to either go with the opportunity to create a business from nothing that will one day hopefully be a successful and internationally renowned brand or working in his 9-5 job, there really was no competition in my mind for which route I should take.

Although you could argue his method in choosing the name for his business after he named his company “Huxley” after his friend’s dog, but you can’t deny his passion, dedication and commitment in turning his business into a successful one.

I do really love the look of the jumpers, very ummm…Nice, Colourful, Now I really feel like getting one.
Check out their products @ www.huxleyclothing.co.uk/shop

Nice Catalog, Right??

The founder, CEO, Designer and creative director of “Billy Boyce (BB)” is Shaun Akanbi.

Shaun Akanbi is a 23 years old law gradate fulfilling his dreams as a designer and a young entrepreneur.
BB is clothing filled with an interesting mix, purposely made to grasp attention, but most of all made to be a difference within this generation.

“Some say beauty is what you’re born with not what you create…How naive?” a tagline derived from Mr Akanbi speaking of BB in one sentence.

Hello, how are you doing Shaun? Welcome to YHP

“Billy Boyce”, how did you come up with the title?

I named the brand after my father who I love so much, and “Billy” happens to be his name and Boyce being an alias.

Who inspired you to create such radical designs?

Am inspired by so many people and things so naming one specific body to summarise it all would be quite difficult. However, am mainly inspired by the creative minds of kids and youths and street culture, the punk era, vibrant colours, flamboyant buttons, patches, heightened fierce and diva like personalities, Futuristic creations and like most people, I love everything that sparkles. Hence, my idea of creating a new genre brand with the combination of street, glamour and excitement.

What’s your favourite style when it comes to clothing?

My personal style differs depending on the occasion; however you would often catch me looking a bit preppy and chic.

Do you have a favourite clothing brand?

I love Marc Jacobs, Tom Ford, Alexandra McQueen and All Saints.

When was your first entrepreneurial experience?

My first entrepreneurial experience was back in 2008 when i initially started the brand and sold my first few items. I made profit and had to decide if i should pocket the profits or re-invest into the business but i made the choice of re-investing it.

What do you feel are the basic skills needed to become a successful entrepreneur?

I would say the skills required are as follows: Hardworking, dedication, ability to invest in one’s self, ability to improvise, managerial skills, time management, self beliefs, determination to succeed, and willingness to learn to become a perfectionist.

Your presentation of BB clothing portrays a strong sense of colours, why is that so?

Billy Boyce being “A new generation brand for a new generation of people” means in this modern times, we all long to be 16 again and the best way to stay and feel young is to celebrate colours within our own unique styles.

Who do you aim to target as your audience?

Billy Boyce Clothing is aimed at an array of individuals from young novices to adventurous adults.

What are your aims and goals regarding Billy Boyce as the founder of it?

Our aim is to create a new genre of fashion within the hearts of London and re-invent ourselves as the new Joe Bloggs that everybody wants to be a part of. We also aim to extend our product line from clothing to accessories, jewellery, colognes/fragrances, sunglasses, shoes and bags.

Has your business gone under any setback so far and how did you overcome it?

With production becoming very expensive, we have had to source our resources oversees. However, there were always minimum quantities of thousands which seemed impossible as a small brand. I overcame this by using the recession as an excuse to negotiate for bargain deals from suppliers and manufacturers hence making them lower their minimum quantities to cater for smaller businesses like myself.

Time is an important tool in this world of ours, especially in this generation. Does this business you venture in enable you with time for yourself, friends and family?

Truthfully, there isn’t enough time in the day to do many of things i hoped to do for the business yet alone for my personal life. However, the hyped blackberry device has made things a little easier. I try to make time for myself, friends and family either way and i respond to emails etc via my blackberry if urgently needed to do so.

Where do you see Billy Boyce going in the next five years?

In the next year we hope to expand into our various product line as mentioned earlier and also hope to create a kids collection. I also hope to be internationally acclaimed past Europe.

Do you have anyone you model yourself around?

Richard Branson, P. Diddy, Oprah Winfrey, Donald Trump, Philip Greene, Robert (Bob) Johnson and many others who were born without a silver spoon and went from rag to riches merely by working hard.

As a fashion designer, is there any necessity for one to obtain an educational degree?

It’s always best to know your trade and education is always going to be a vital developmental skill. There are so many things that cannot be self taught and you would always need education to fill in the blank spaces and unanswered questions.

Why didn’t you pursue further as to becoming a lawyer due to the facts that you have studied it….

I had always had a creative mind, dream and passion to become a fashion designer from a tender age but evolving from an African background, i knew it wasn’t a career my parents would be pleased with. Moreover, my parents brought me up telling me i would become a good lawyer due to my good debating and negotiating skills right from a tender age. I initially thought i was doing it for them but then realised how useful it had been just after i graduated. You could also say destiny played its part now but law will always be a part of me as its helped my negotiating and communication skills, my understanding of the rights of a consumer and how to work within the consumer and trade acts that protect them. It has also helped me in the formulation of policies and procedures under-which the company operates.

What’s your advice for people who aim to be radical, different as yourself in the clothing line?

Be creative, innovative and draw your inspiration from your surroundings.

Do you have any advice for young entrepreneurs out there?

Don’t give up and keep striving even when times are hard. There would always be a way even when there seems to be no way, just stop and think. If Richard Branson can, why can’t we?

Thank you for your time Shaun.

Contact Billy Boyce@
www.billyboyceclothing.co.uk
www.myspace.com/billyboyceclothing

Interviewed & Edited By Honey Carew

D-visions clothing label is growing fast to its customers, Different brands such as Sweaters & T-shirt collection, bringing fresh colours for you.
D-Visions Clothing is an influenced brand, inspired by forever changing movements around the UK and outside Europe.

Artistic movements such as music, art, photography and people’s ambitious visions in life also influence D-Visions clothing.

Hello, how are both of you doing today? Welcome to YHP.

(Andre speaks):
I’m ok, Thanks!

(Lawrence speaks):
Lawrence: I’m ok!!

Can you give us a bit more information about you? Your name? How old are you?

(Lawrence speaks):
I’m 24 and I’m the photographer and joint owner of D-visions.

(Andre speaks):
I’m 24 and I’m the founder and designer for D-visions

How does it feel running a clothing line at this age?

(Andre speaks):
It feels good, because you have your ideas coming to life. Also it’s nice to see other people to appreciate your talent, by connecting in what you’re trying to deliver.

What made you go into business?

Going into a business at this age, seems very positive and shows that were in a good situation in our lives.
This is nice to know, and we do enjoy every minute of what we do. But there are so many things we are learning everyday in such a competitive market.

What is D-visions brand all about?

D-visions Movement is designed to create a fresh casual feel in today’s world.
Artistic movements such as music, art, photography and people’s ambitious visions in life also influence D-Visions movement.
The slogan “Believe in my creativity” is about you as an individual, believing in what you want to become of yourself within life.

Who is part of the D-visions team?

(Lawrence Yiga speaks):
Currently D-visions clothing main founders are Andre (Founder) and myself (C.E.O)
However we do have a assistanted team which is Dorah yiga(Office manager), Shaneen Phipps (Make-up), Sophia Danielle (Make-up) and (Chorographer) Nicola Savage.

Maria G Stanley (make up artist).

Without the team and friends we wouldn’t be getting as strong visually and effort wise,due to the hard work involved behind the scene of D-visions.
Also we can’t forget all the artists involved with D-visions. They are the future of the U.K industries of today.

(Andre speaks):All the D-visions artist such as Young Nate,Smiler etc are the map of big things, but people just need to pay attention to whats happening around them.

How long have you been going?

(Lawrence Yiga speaks):
We are in our second year of offical being a registered brand.
Our first year really consited of hard work and good preparation.
Being in 2009 and our second year consit of establishment and key research in our market.
Knowing our response we receive through fashions shows,events etc.Then reacting constructively to each positive or negative feedback of our brand.

What has the response been to your latest clothes range?

(Lawrence Yiga speaks):
The response to the clothing has been really positive, which is mainly the consitantcy of our designs and photography produced.
We want to try and show the muturity in our clothes, and the mood sets it project.

Do you feel your age restricts you from certain things in business?

(Andre speaks):
Not really. I think that were at a good age were myself and Lawrence can learn a lot from the mature mentors and customers, to the youngsters age between 11 to 16 years old.

What do you think is the most important thing to do before starting a business?

(Lawrence Yiga speaks):
Make sure you do your research to your main idea. It will help you progress to peole or links that could or would help you in the long run.

How have you coped in this competitive industry, especially during this time of economy downfall?

(Lawrence Yiga speaks):
D-visions team has coped very well, to the point were we are just concentrating on our aims, targets and goals.

There has always been a problem with company economy downfalls, but we just has to make sure that we handle our finance criteria right.

What are your thoughts about the amount of clothing line coming out? Are you threatened?

(Andre speaks):
LOL, being threatened would mean you’re not ready to be in a competeive market/industry.

I respeact a lot of brands,were you as a customer can see a lot of thought process of keeping us interested to there theme.

Who are your role model/influences?

(Andre speaks):
What we inspiration through are everyday journey is a lot to do with our influences.
I learn a lot from Lawrenece as a photographer because of how he looks to do things.

Your slogan “Believe in my creativity” Is that just talking about your vision of the clothing industry or is it there more to it?

(Andre speaks):
It’s not just about clothing. This slogan is about people, being confident in there own idea of what you are trying to share with others.

Plans for the future?

(Lawrence Yiga):
Well this year is what we call our marketing and advertising year, like we said.
We work really hard on producing garments to it’s highest quailty and not quantity.
Our targets is this year, is just to make sure people know of D-visions as an exclusive rare piece garments for now.
Also working with the right people to make D-visions increase of it’s awareness to build a stronger network of people within our brand.

Where can i purchase ur products?

(Andre speaks):
You can buy the garment at Lo-Key boutique store in leyton high road,East London.
It’s what we call a home soil place to distrubted our clothing,but exspect D-visions in a store in every area in London.

Contact D-Vision clothings.
http://www.myspace.com/d_visions85
http://www.flickr.com/photos/dvisionspho…
http://www.dvisions85blogg.wordpress.com
http://www.dvisions85.bigcartel.com
http://www.youtube.com/dvisions85
http://www.twitter.com/dvisions85

Thanls for your time and the best of luck.

Edited & Edited By Joseph Ajilore

Interview with Shawn Hosea, founder of stacksanddreams.

Stacks&Dreams Apparel is a progressive clothing line created by American Music Producer Shawn Hosea. The foundation of Stacks&Dreams is based on positivity and the credence of achieving the goals and dreams that one may pursue in their life.

Hey Shawn, how are you doing today?

Hi Joseph, I’m well. I just finished going over some designs actually.

You just officially launched your new clothing line, how was the feeling?

Wow, I can honestly say that it was one of the most rewarding feelings that a person could experience. So far, I’ve gotten a great response from the public. It feels good for people to accept and embrace what I put so much time and work in to.

Can you give some background information about yourself?

Well for starters, I’ll be celebrating my twenty-first birthday on the 26th of June. In my earlier years I grew up in a military household, so my childhood was spent in different states along the east coast. I can definitely say that being around different people in different regions is something that all people should experience. I live and go to school in Atlanta, GA now.

What inspired you to start a clothing line, you know, because you’re a music producer right??

Yes, music production is a big part of my life. I can say that music has an equal value with S&D on the list of my priorities. I started a clothing line for a plethora of reasons. The artistic aspect and creativity that comes with fashion has always intrigued me. Also, with me being the business savvy person that I am, I knew that I would have to spread myself into other markets for networking and branding purposes. Not only is Stacks&Dreams a brand, but Shawn Hosea is a brand in itself also.

So how do you cope with going to school and running your own line, I mean it must be tense?

It’s not exactly stressful right now, because I just launched. I expect things to get a lot more strenuous along the way as I grow globally. The only tense part I’ve experienced before launching is working with different people on getting S&D prepared. You have to make sure everyone is always on the same page of your agenda. Luckily, I happened to work with some great designers, photographers, and printers.

Can you tell us more about what stacks and dreams is about?

Stacks&Dreams is all positive. The company mission came from my own desires and ambitions to carry out my dreams. The feeling was so strong to me that I felt like everyone should feel the same way. Everyone should have a dream or passion for something. I chose to get people’s attention through musically inspired art. I very much feel that music resonates with everyone worldwide.

Were you always into fashion or was it a new found passion?

It’s a little bit of both. I’ve always loved art and the way it can be transformed into being fashion. As far as the actual fashion industry goes, there were a lot of new things I learned once I decided to actually pursue it.

Do you have any competitors?

This is business so of course I consider people in my industry competition. At the same time I like what a lot of brands are doing with their companies. I find inspiration in how my peers operate. This is friendly competition. As competitors we are not trying to destroy each other. It’s like a sport. Were trying to see who’s the best.

Who are your target markets?

I don’t like to put S&D in a box because I feel like my mission relates to everybody. At the same time, I do understand that I cannot spread myself to thin. In this case, I believe my demographic is mostly the age groups of 13 to 35 and targets people who like art as well as music.

Do you have any role model/influences?

Growing up, my uncle Billco was the biggest role model to me. He was the ultimate business man in my eyes, and I think that’s why I do what I do to this day. He owns and runs a barber shop in Gary, Indiana and has done so since his high school years. He’s never worked a job in his life! My parents definitely inspired my morals and work ethic.

What do you do to relax yourself? All work and no play make Shawn a dull boy right?

Ha, my work is never dull to me because I love what I do. I listen to a lot of music to get relaxed after a long day. Listening to music before I go to bed has been a daily practice of mine since before I can remember.

What is your favourite piece of clothing that you own?

Definitely my Adidas Superstars, classic shell toes. All white, with the navy blue stripes.

What should we be expecting from you in the future?

Well, the fall/winter season designs are almost finished. For that, expect the line to have a more matured look and feeling to it. I have some great new ideas for branding so expect some crazy things! Keep up with the S&D Blog to stay up to date with me and the company.

Thank you for your time.

No problem Joseph and thank you for interviewing me. These were great questions.

Contact Stacks&Dreams@
Email:info@stacksanddreams.com
Website: http://www.stacksanddreams.com

Exclusive interview with the founders of Formatic clothing

Hello, so nice to finally speak to you guys.

J: Likewise. Thanks again for featuring us on your site.

So can you please give us some background information about yourself, name, age, location.

Dan Wargo: 20 years old and I live in Rahway, NJ

Joe Geis: 22 years old and I currently live in Bloomfield, NJ.

Are you both in Formatic Clothing full time?

D: No, I wouldn’t even consider it part time. It’s more like spare time, though I’d love for
Formatic to become a full time job for me.

J: Yeah, right now we are both in college full time, with multiple part time jobs, but we would both love to see how far Formatic can really go.

What parts do you both play in the business?

D: I handle more of the business side. The accounting, ordering, shipping of online orders, and dealing with the retailers.

J: My part is more on the creative side. I handle the designing of our clothing, the design of any promotional pieces, managing of our website, photo shoots, as well as the planning of our seasonal release events.

How is it to work with family? Did you feel it was the right move to make?

D: It’s a lot easier working with a family member than with a friend or any other business partner. I feel like we can be more upfront and honest with one another about our opinions on any matter of business since we have known each other forever.

How do you both complement each other?

J: We both know our roles in Formatic, and therefore, everything runs very smoothly for the most part. Now, being a few years into this, we know what we each need to get done to make sure this company continues to run as positive and successful as it has been. Our business is continually growing, and so do our responsibilities. Since we’ve known each other our whole lives, picking up each others slack isn’t much of a problem.

How did the dream begin?

D: Joe and I were a part of the New Jersey music scene for many years. We played in the same band together for 3 years and after we broke up, we knew that we still wanted to do something creative together.

J: We were tired of seeing friends and other people in the scene falling into meaningless fashion fads, so we decided to take it upon ourselves to try and change things. At first it was just something fun and temporary, but as soon as we saw the reaction from the release of our first line of shirts, we realized that Formatic wasn’t something we wanted to be temporary.

When was Formatic clothing born?

D: The idea of Formatic formed in the Fall of 2007, which was soon followed by our first line of men’s and women’s shirts.

What are your marketing strategies?

D: Right now, with the recent success in our area, we have been doing our best to spread Formatic everywhere. We have received international orders, so it’s working. As far as marketing strategies go, I’d say that it’s the next big step that we are going to have to spend some quality time on when our summer line drops.

How difficult do you feel it is to get an investor on board?

J: We have gotten a few offers recently from people willing to invest in Formatic. We started this company with money out of our own pockets, and we have had a hard time agreeing to take money from anyone else. Eventually down the road it could well be a possibility, but right now it’s not on our list of priorities.

How do you promote your brand?

D: Right now we promote our online webstore on various message boards and websites, such as HypeBeast, AbsolutePunk and the VW Vortex. The Myspace page, Facebook group, and Street Team are also great ways for us, and for others, to help us reach our audience. Also, for every seasonal line we release, we host events with giveaways, live musical performances, food and drinks; all which have had outstanding turnouts.

How did you raise money for the business?

D: We started Formatic with extra money we had saved up from our part time jobs. Keeping every dollar that we’ve made in rotation since then has luckily left us financially comfortable.

Would you call it a family business?

J: We didn’t intend for it to be a family business, but it has definitely turned into one. We have had a few other business partners along the way which didn’t work out, so we decided it would be best for just us two to run things.
Recently we have been getting a lot of help from our friend Jill ( http://www.myspace.com/her_remedy ) as well.
We also have tons of amazing friends who are willing to lend a hand whenever they can. Way too many to name, but if you’ve ever visited the top friends on our Myspace page ( http://www.myspace.com/formaticclothing ), came to any Formatic events, or been a part of any of our seasonal photo shoots, I’m sure you’ve met them or have seen the outstanding support they supply.

Your clothes are being sold at numerous retail stores in New Jersey, how does that feel?

J: It feels amazing. Coming from an artists point of view, this has always been a humbling experience. To know that people enjoy your artwork so much that they’d spend money to wear it on their backs, is exactly why we started Formatic.
We started Formatic because we wanted to do something different. Formatic is a movement. Its an experience, and the fact that these store owners believe in what we are doing enough to showcase our clothing, really means the world. Big thanks to Dave Dowd and Cyrus for all the help. We are working out things with a few new retailers in Jersey now, so check back in soon for more information on those.

Who are your target markets?

J: Formatic is a clothing company that is dedicated to inspiring and influencing open minds. And I’d like to think that comes off when people visit our website, speak to us, or come to one of our events. Looking from the outside, I think it would be easy to say that our target market would be any young man or woman interested in skate/streetwear. But we’ve sold shirts to 65 year old men, as well as mothers buying shirts for their young children. With that being said, I’d say that Formatic’s target market is any living human-being with an open mind and who is interested in well-designed clothing with strong meaning behind it.

What is the most difficult thing in running a business?

D: Right now, our biggest problem is time. Going to school full time, as well as having jobs to pay the bills, there just never seems to be enough hours in the day.

J: There’s always something else to do, but thats the rush of it.

What are your advises to young entrepreneurs out there?

J: You never know what’s going to happen. If you have an idea, just go for it. And bust your ass doing so. As horribly cliche as it is, you’re never going to know until you try. If you want something bad enough, it’ll happen one way or another.

D: And always be careful who you trust.

A lot of young entrepreneurs are constantly looking for funding to start-up their business, what are your advises for them?

J: We know how it is to be young, broke, and full of ideas. If you want to pursue your business bad enough, find a way to make it happen; save money, borrow money, etc. If you’re starting from scratch like we did, find some people that you trust to start the business with you. Three pockets are heavier than one. Usually.

What do you both do in your spare time?

J: We are both really active and driven people. Sitting on our asses and watching TV all day has never really been an option for us, which is probably why Formatic has been doing so well. When I find some spare time it’s usually spent in the gym or putting back a few with my friends while the games on.

D: I do a lot of surfing, photography, working on my car, and hanging out with my friends.

If you had a chance to go back in time, what would you do differently?

J: When it comes to owning your own business, trust is one of the most important things. If there’s one thing I could go back and do, it would be to be more careful with who I trusted along the way. It’s really easy to get caught up in the beginning and to trust anyone who says they can better your company, but you’ve really got to be careful with your money and any other ideas or information you might have.

If you both didn’t start Formatic Clothing, what do you think you will be doing?

D: I’d probably be focusing more on my other main interest, Cinematography. Its always been something I’ve enjoyed and its what I’m studying at school. I could see myself doing more short films.

J: I’m going to school for Graphic Design, and I’m a very opinionated person, so it makes perfect sense to be a part of Formatic. If I wasn’t, I’m sure I’d be a part of something very similar.

What do you feel about anyone looking to start a business during the recession?

D: Being a smaller business without an actual location, being run primarily online, we haven’t taken that much of a hit since everything began to fall apart. I’d just tell anyone starting up a business now to be prepared not to see the gains as quick as they would hope to because not everyone is spending money like they used to.

Do you feel entrepreneurs in the USA have a better advantage or opportunity to succeed than any place in the world?

J: It really depends on the industry they are looking to get into. Sure, I think some entrepreneurs in the USA have a better opportunity to succeed than ones in other countries, but then again some countries have an advantage over the USA in other industries. No matter what industry, it really comes down to what you put in. With fashion, you’re always going to have new trends and fads popping up all over the place, but sticking to your beliefs and understanding that they are just trends will help you come out on the other side.

What should we expecting from you both in your personal and business life in the future?

D: A far as Formatic goes, definitely expect plenty of new stuff, as well as more events. We are looking into doing new things this summer, such as board shorts and bikinis, as well as planning for the fall.

J: Formatic is our brainchild. We plan on taking this as far as it can possibly go. With the amount of support we’ve been getting so far, it doesn’t make any sense not to. There’s no better feeling than seeing a kid in the mall wearing your hoodie, or having someone e-mail you pictures of them wearing your clothing in other countries. People are excited about it, we are excited about it. It’s just the beginning.

Thank you for your time and we wish you the best in the future.

–

Conatct and follow@
http://www.formaticclothing.com
http://www.myspace.com/formaticclothing

–
http://www.formaticclothing.com
http://www.twitter.com/formatic
http://www.myspace.com/formaticclothing

YHP Interviews the founder of Apples and Bandaids

“I am not here to make millions. I am here to change the world”

Brand New clothing line making a difference

First, tell us about your company and what you do in your job?

Well I am the owner of Adoni Clothing and Apples and Bandaids. What I do in the company is I make sure everything is running smoothly. I make orders to my screen printer, I do some shipping since we are a fairly small company. I work with our creative designers for up coming clothing lines. I pretty much do it all from A – Z

Before we move on, can you give us some background information about yourself?
How did you get started in fashion? In the industry?

I was born in San Francisco, kind of had a crazy story when I was young. I grew up with two amazing parents. I was pretty active growing up playing sports. But my first day at college I meet one of my really good friends Jeff. He was a pro at surfing, skating, wake-boarding and pretty much anything else that you need to use a board. We had this crazy idea of trying to shape fiber glass skim board in my garage. We made about 15 boards in which I still have in my garage. One day we decided that it would be rad to make a positive clothing company so Adoni Clothing Began… I Love doing fashion and just really wanted to start something new and fresh. So I came up with Apples and Bandaids to raise money for food and medical supplies in 3rd world countries. I had no idea that something so simple would be such a huge hit. I partnered up with an amazing organization called Empowering Lives. They have been around for a while changing lives in so many countries! They go into villages where there is no money and buy the local villages farming equipment so they can sustain them selves. It is such an amazing thing to give back to this world and create a outlet for people that want to change this world but just have no idea how to go about doing that. So they can buy a rad shirt and Half of each shirt sales goes to Empowering Lives! Pretty simple I think.

What was it that made you decide to start Apples and bandaids? I know you have another clothing line called Adoni clothing, what happened to it?

I wanted to do more than just own a clothing company like Adoni Clothing. Adoni is amazing and we really represent a positive company by our surf team that we have and the events in which we attend. But I really wanted to start a company where I give back in helping this world out. So Apples and Bandaids came about!

Where do you find design inspiration?

The design inspiration is from my amazing Design Team that I work with! Ric Alessio is the creative designer behind apples and bandaids and has an amazing talented view when it comes to design and painting. I love working with him. He is a traveling musician that plays music and designs when he is not playing a show.

Who are your target audience for these products?

Our Target audience is any one who wants to buy our product and wants to change the world. Our vision is we are getting big bands involved with us to help promote on stage and in photo shoots. I am thinking we are going to be reaching the high school to college kids.

What inspires you at the moment in doing what you do?

I have a huge passion to serve others and really help out this world and people in need. Fashion is what I know and I figure that everyone wakes up and looks into their closet and puts some kind of clothing item on.. So why cant we create an amazing product where you buy a shirt that truly does change.

Your most favourite designer EVER?

I don’t have a favourite designer. But I really love Kevin Tudball and Ric Alessio who are my designers!

Where do you see yourself and your business in 10 years time?

10 years I want to be traveling to the villages in which we have raised money to build up their communities. I want to travel around with bands and love on kids and empowering people that their dreams can come true if their heart is in it 100% !

What does your brand represent?

Apples and Bandaids Represents a clothing company that gives people a outlet to change the world. I am not here to make millions. I am here to change the world!

Where do you get your inspiration?

My inspirations comes from growing up in Ministry and being apart of a very loving supportive creative community that I have in Santa Cruz

Would you be making your collections to season?

Right now A and B we are going to be sticking with one design for now so it can be uniformed but we will def be adding more designs later on down the road.

What is the hardest part of your job?

The hardest part right now is just getting people to check out what Apples and Bandaids is all about. It takes times so being patient is key and not giving up.

Who are your style icons?

My style is really from growing up in Santa Cruz which is a small beach town. With the most random artsy group of people that you will ever see. I love collaborating with other artist and seeing what we come up with.

If you dint have a clothing line, you would be?

I went to school to be a Chef but didnt really see myself going into that as a carrer and switched my major to Special Education. So maybe going back to school to get a degree in special education. Who knows?

What’s your current obsession?

My current obsession right now that I cant get off my mind. Is how do I reach the masses and how to get them as excited or more excited than I am about Apples and Bandaids.

How do you get things done?

I get things done with love and being able to be a good leader by building a team of people who want to help and who are self motivated to help me with my dreams.

Do you have any advices for young entrepreneurs out there?

The one thing I have for anyone. Is Dream Big! Do what you love! Find your niche that works for you. Stay organized and just make it fun!

What can we expect in the future?

Apples and Bandaids going Nation Wide and taking over the fashion industry by raising money for many organizations to help make this world better!

Thank you for your time

Contact Matt@
http://www.adoniclothing.com
http://myspace.com/adoniclothing
http://www.myspace.com/applesandbandaids
matt@adoniclothing.com

Reynoir Clothing was formed not with the idea of bringing one style or one persons ideas about into the world. We believe that style is in the eye of wearer and therefore we strive to combine our own ideas with the ideas of the public to constantly bring you a new styles or old styles with a new swagger with every design.

Hello, how are you doing?

I’m great, I woke up this morning so I can’t complain about anything else

Can you give us brief background information about yourself, what’s your name? How old are you? Where are you from?

My name is Reynoir Lewis, everyone calls me Renny or DJ Scoop, I’m 22 years old, I was born in Los Angeles, and grew up in New York/New Jersey

When was Reynoir Clothing born?

Reynoir Clothing was born unofficially when I was a little kid because I loved to draw and paint. It was officially registered as a New Jersey state business in 2006, when I started hand painting original clothing for people in my college.

What is Reynoir Clothing about?

Reynoir is about transforming common and mundane clothing into something unique and extravagant.

At what age did you get into fashion?

I got into fashion when I was 12 or 13 because I liked putting my own artwork on my t-shirts or hoodies to wear for myself, then people started to like what I was doing and it grew from there.

What makes your designs unique?

My designs are unique because they are not copied from someone else, they are not stolen, and they have not already been made and just tweaked to fit what I want. I sit down and I make paintings or digital artworks or take photos and from those creations I develop the theme for an outfit or the basis of my collections.

Where do you get your inspiration from?

I get my inspiration from the world around me. Anything or anyone I come in contact with can be a possible inspiration from something they may say or the way something may look. I am also inspired by classic Asian artwork because of the unique color palettes and ever changing ideals hidden inside of the art.

What makes your clothing line relevant to today’s society?

My clothing is relevant in today’s society because I cover a wide range from urban and casual wear to suits and
dresses so there is something for everyone here. Today’s society is always changing and more people are realizing that they want to be leaders and not followers so they are looking for something original that can help them separate from the followers and that is wear my clothing comes into play always changing.

Would you have done anything differently, if you could go back in time?

No because everything I have been through has made me who I am so if I go back and change something I would essentially be changing myself.

How did you raise money for your business?

I have been djing since I was 11 so that was the foundation of my money support. I am also a graphic designer which brought in more money to help support my business.

Who are your competitors? (Customer profile)

I don’t have competitors because my clothing is original. Having competitors means you’re doing the same thing someone else is doing. I’m a leader not a follower.

Who are your target markets?

My target market is anyone and everyone who just likes to wear my clothing because they feel they look good in it.

What are your advertising strategies? (Do you use any social networking sites to promote your brand).

Outside of word of mouth, our website (www.Reynoir.com) and having a team that handles face to face conferences, we are on facebook – renny djscoop lewis, myspace.com/reynoirclothing, twitter.com/therealdjscoop, www.thebfboys.com, www.youtube.com/reynoirjr

What fabrics do you mostly deal with?

I love to use cottons because I can paint on them very easily, but I also use a lot of suede and silk.

What was the most important lesson you have learnt so far?

If you want to get something done, do it yourself and the only person you can truly trust is yourself so never doubt your own gut feeling to do or not to do something.

Who is your role model/influence?

My role model/influence would have to be Jamie Foxx & Julien Beever. Jamie Foxx because his style is very simple yet always sharp, crisp and unique. Julian Beever is one of the world’s leading 3D chalk artists and his artwork shows me that the simplest things in life go a long way i.e. he makes millions off of chalk drawings!!!

What has been your greatest achievement so far?

Just enjoying and being able to live off of the things I do and not have to do anything else.

What are your advices for Aspiring young entrepreneurs looking to break in the Fashion industry or other industries?

Hold your ground, be patient and do what you feel is right, be a leader and be original, if you perfect one thing and do it well then it matters not how many other things the next person can do because you will always be able to do what you do better than them.

So what do you feel your success so far has been based on?

Hard work, endless nights of working and true love for what I do.

So what’s next for Reynoir Clothing?

Working on collaboration with Evolved-Footwear.com right now and coming to stores near you very soon.

Thank you for yout time and good luck
http://www.Reynoir.com