Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in fashion and clothing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ty McBride, Owner and Creative Director of "INTENTIONALLY ___________.", located in Los Angeles, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am the founder, co-owner, and Creative Director of Los Angeles based INTENTIONALLY BLANK. We are primarily a lifestyle brand with a focus on women's footwear. We create covet-worthy footwear staples for humans who value a mobile lifestyle, are on the go, but are addicted to personal style and serve expressions via their style.
Tell us about yourself
I am a 45-year-old queer business owner who grew up on a cattle ranch and farm in Eastern Oregon. After many years with the help of major footwear projects for other people, I took the leap in 2014 and created my brand---putting my vision to work and unleashing my POV on the footwear industry. I am motivated by many things, the fear of success, the fear of failure, being addicted to work, and the desire to make my parents proud and to always stay relevant.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I started this brand after being fired from my last position, cashed out my 401K, no outside funding, a laptop I retained from my previous job after my termination, and a Rolodex full of contacts. I am proud of the brave, bold, and courageous work I had to put in to get this brand off the ground. The struggle was real, and the struggle still is!
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Not everyone is going to like you. Not everyone is going to understand you. Not everyone is going to want it as badly as you do. Not everyone is going to be available to your vision. Not everyone is on your timeline.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Jump into a small company role where you can do as much as possible on the budget of somebody else. Stay two years, not more than 3.
- From the first day, you start to create balance for yourself. Outsource anything you are not an expert at.
- Never stop learning.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.intentionallyblank.us/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BUNDLEOFSTICKS/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamintentionallyblank/
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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