Meet Brian Hutton | Educator and Creative

We had the good fortune of connecting with Brian Hutton and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Brian, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
My thought process for starting my clothing brand inˈjēnyəs was to remind people the value of being themselves. I’ve observed overtime as trends came and went, people were constantly adjusting to fit what society deemed as norm. Social media was causing people to negatively reflect inward as they saw people “living their best lives.” It was constantly telling people how they should look, how they should dress, what they should eat, what their bank account should look like, or how they should carry themselves. This created tons of anxiety and depression for those that felt they didn’t fit under that umbrella. Inˈjēnyəs clothing wants to make individuality the norm again. It wants to encourage people to share their differences. It wants to inspire people feel good about standing out. We were created to be 1:1’s.

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.
My art that can often be found on my clothing are inspired by where I grew up. I’m from Jackson, MS. The environment was a survival of the fittest type environment. Therefore, my way of escaping was through art. Lyrics of songs to uplift my spirit, bible quotes on my grandmother’s wall, a picture of a black Jesus for representation, cartoons that would create laughter, album covers that made bold statements. All of these inspirations can be found in my art to uplift spirits, or provide representation, or create laughter, or make bold statements. It brings me great joy knowing I can provide these things through fashion. I’m currently still in the building stage. I want to reach a larger audience but this is the start. I would be lying if I was to say it was easy. Easy was never a reality for me. So I expect for the journey to be rough. I honestly don’t think I would want it if it was easy. Some challenges I’ve faced was learning the business of fashion. I also had to teach myself how to advertise and market. As well as how to understand the algorithm on social media sites to increase the brand’s reach. One of my biggest lessons i’ve learned on the way was don’t try to do everything on your own. There are resources that can be bought at cheap rates to assist you with different aspects of starting a business. Another big lesson i’ve learned is how to find comfort outside of your comfort zone. I want the world to know that at inˈjēnyəs, we want to create a contagious cycle of self-awareness by removing the fear to stand out while increasing the courage to be original. Remember, we are all 1:1. Do not allow society to tel you how to be happy or what happiness look like!!! “Originality Starts With i. ”

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’m currently located on the outskirts of Atlanta, GA. I’ve only been here for 3 in a half years so ATL is still new for me. For a week long trip, we would definitely have to check out Puttshack. Great drinks, fun indoor golfing course. We would also have to go to the Botanical Garden. The scene is beautiful and its always so calming and relaxing. I would also take them to the High Museum of Art. I always leave inspired to create. It’s a must to checkout the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. As an African American, it is a must to know the history they can’t/don’t teach us in school. I have to take them to try something on the menu from Slutty Vegan. They will leave considering a plant-based lifestyle. I will also take them to the Atlanta Breakfast Club. Great music, and the food will make you need a nap afterwards (the itus). Take them to Jenny’s for some of the best ice cream they will ever have. We will have to hang out at the Beltline, The Painted Pin, The Sky Lounge, and Centennial Park. We will have to hang out at the Beltline and Centennial Park. Always good vibes there. I’m still new to ATL so I have some places on my bucket list that are yet to be checked off.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to give a major s/o to God first and foremost. I don’t take credit for anything I have accomplished. I allow him to lead me in everything I do. Next, I want to thank my amazing wife. She always challenge me to go above and beyond. She’s encouraged me constantly throughout this journey. I would also like to thank my brother-in-law, the Co-Founder, for helping me bring the brand to life. Last, but certainly not least, my tribe. My family and friends that has showed their support since day 1. I love all y’all dearly.

Website: injenyes.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/injenyesclothing/