Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in fashion but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kendria Godair, Owner of Dria Dair, located in Phoenix, AZ, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My business is Dria Dair, a lifestyle everyday wear clothing brand founded in Graham, NC, in 2015, although operating for two years online before that, now based out of Phoenix, AZ. My brand has evolved through the last 10 years and grown up with me changing styles and approaches a few times. Dabbling in everything from formal wear to canna clothing. Now it centers around being comfortable in everything you wear and focuses mainly on clothing ranging from a day on the town to something suitable for a date night, pride, gym, and everything in between. My customers range in ages from teens to grandmothers because we don't adhere to society telling us what is appropriate for us to wear at any age.
Tell us about yourself
I first started because I was trying to fill a need for myself and for my area, which I felt was lacking in a more elevated fashion. I started because I always knew I would be in business for myself, but finding my true passion to monetize was the most important piece for me. Different things have motivated me along my journey, from times as simple as someone telling me this dream was too big to accomplish and I should aim lower to times that having two kids and mouths to feed got me up and working out of necessity to beautiful times seeing my clothes on runways and being inspired, and having an amazing group of creatives in my area to cheer me on.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Keeping the doors to my brick-and-mortar open for 5 years and continuing to show up when times got difficult. Moving myself and my family across the country to Arizona in 2020 and starting to build a brand presence in the West. Being in Arizona Fashion Week and many fashion shows since. And simply stepping out of my comfort zone to speak at events and encourage other women in business.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Being consistent when you only answer to yourself. Getting up every day and doing the necessary work when you could get away with laying in bed and watching Netflix instead. Believing in yourself when it seems no one is interested, keeping faith in your vision.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Believe in yourself, don't rely on the belief of others in you. Be willing to go out of your comfort zone and take risks. Slow down and enjoy the journey; it truly is the reward. This has been the hardest thing for me to learn, to stop stressing my way to success.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://driadair.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DriaDair/
Instagram (Business): https://www.instagram.com/_driadair_/
Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/kendria_godair/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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