Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in clothing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with LaMicah Hughbanks, Founder of urbn rewrrk, located in Brooklyn, NY, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
urbn rewrrk is a woman and Black-owned clothing brand based in Brooklyn, NY. All urbn rewrrk pieces are handmade using sustainable and reclaimed materials. Our brand ethos is centered on growing awareness around sustainable practices in the fashion industry by creating classic, forward-thinking apparel for every body. Our ideal customers are conscious consumers whose desire is to support diverse entrepreneurs and lean toward a forward-thinking aesthetic.
Tell us about yourself
I am a self-taught designer based in Brooklyn, NY. My work is centered around reworking sustainable and secondhand apparel through hand and machine construction. I was born and raised in Ann Arbor, Michigan, where I received a Bachelor's degree from Michigan State University and the University of Rochester's School of Nursing.
My creative journey started in 2019 when I began to grow dissatisfied with the narrow track of my career—I was drawn to apparel design after being inspired by vintage clothing and waste within the fashion industry in particular. I ordered a sewing machine, taught myself to rework garments by watching upcycling videos and reworked my first sweater into a two-piece set. From there on out, I participated in a few sewing courses that helped me to hone my skills.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Over the past two years, I've vended at various events throughout New York City, allowing me to gain exposure, meet other entrepreneurs, and create new opportunities. I'm proud to have built a community in Brooklyn of amazing supporters. Thus far, my biggest accomplishment is being a part of Sincerely Tommy, a Bed-Stuy neighborhood staple and tastemaker in the lifestyle space. My goal is to one day have my pieces sold in multiple shops around the world.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
I began urbn rewrrk with no business experience and skill set from a totally different industry. Over the past two years, I've learned to be a business owner through trial and error. I've had to learn not to live in my mistakes but truly learn from them. Many times as business owners, we want speedy results, and one of my biggest areas for growth is being patient. Every day I remind myself to trust the process and keep going.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Running a business is a major commitment. Based on my experience, it's important to be prepared to make sacrifices both financially and socially. Depending on the type of business, don't be afraid to put yourself out there by attending vending and entrepreneurial events. Gaining exposure in real life helps grow clientele and allows customers to create a relationship with your brand. Remain consistent and good results will come!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.urbnrewrrk.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/urbnrewrrk
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/urbnrewrrk/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/urbnrewrrk
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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