We had the good fortune of connecting with Mia Hammett and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Mia, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Honestly, I sucked at 9-5 jobs, lol. I’ve always had a great work ethic, never missing days or being late was not the problem. Being bullied by my superiors, feeling unappreciated and not being able to hold my tongue is what ultimately led me to start seeking non-traditional sources of revenue. My Father and Mother also dabbled in Entrepreneurship so I didn’t have to look far for inspiration.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Starting a career as a Fashion Stylist has not been easy. I had a location disadvantage when I first started. I lived in North Carolina but I was booking jobs in Atlanta, D.C. and New York. I never told a soul that I didn’t live in those locations. I would book the jobs and leave out the night before or a few days in advance, depending on the wardrobe for the shoot, I have hopped planes, driven 6-10 hrs, taken the train and the bus. That’s how bad I wanted to build my portfolio, that’s how bad I wanted to a be a Stylist. I would be the first person on set and the last to leave. These days it’s a lot easier for me to book a job, im mostly remembered for my style work, professionalism and personality. I’ve learned, if you’re truly passionate about something nothing will stand in your way and you’ll get it done by any means necessary. I’m most excited about turning Eshe Boutique into Eshe Style Co., a full service style house for fashion and interior design. You’ll soon be able to purchase clothing, interior decor and book my styling services all in one place. I want the world to remember my brands quality of service first and timeless, impeccable style second.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Our first stop is most definitely the Slutty Vegan to grab a delicious burger, next we’ll skip over to SCAD Fashion & Film Museum to catch the Ruth E. Carter Exhibit, then it’s on to MODA (Museum of Design Atlanta) to view The Future Happened exhibition. We have to stop by the fabulous Lisa Nicole Collection Showroom for an upscale shopping experience, to ensure we’re too fly while sipping cognac, smoking cigars and eating a big juicy steak at Fellaship Atl.. Of course no ATL trip is complete without a visit to Centennial Park and a gorgeous night ride on the infamous Skyview.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Awe man, there are sooooo many people in my life that have assisted in my success and are still a huge part of my support system til this day. Of course my parents instilled a dope work ethic in myself and my siblings. My Mother encouraged me to deviate from my longterm life plan and exit my job at Roundpoint Mortgage a lot sooner than I expected (I had a mapped out 7 year plan, was honestly excuses and fear). Celebrity Fashion Stylist Julian Lark, not only gave me my first Styling job, he didn’t mind over sharing and showing me the ends and outs of the fashion industry. And last but not least, my current mentor, marketing expert, Mike Collins, who inspires me to be myself at all times and focus on the longevity of my brands.
Website: www.shopeshe.com
Instagram: @mia.hammett
Other: Eshe Boutique IG @shop_eshe
Image Credits
Personal Photo: Photography by Nikia Williams Image 1, 3 & 4: Alex D Rogers Studio Image 2: Chris Fotos Studio Image 5: Leslie Andrews Photography Image 6: Jonavennci David