We had the good fortune of connecting with Charde CJ Cherry and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Charde CJ, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
The thought process behind starting my own business was to have something tangible that directly represented me and what I felt was important. I honestly created The Atypical Appeal Brand as a starting point. My next goal is to officially launch My nonprofit “Atypical Beauty” to teach the importance of entrepreneurship, mental health and feminine hygiene to  young women. I wanted to make sure that I was a representation of what I’m trying to teach. I also wanted to make sure I practice what I preach.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Atypical appeal is a T-shirt Brand for both Men and Women ranging in sizes sx-5x. Our slogan “Be the Conversation” is an open ended multi use slogan that provides an appeal to all buyers. We are set apart from others because The Brands mission is to remove the stigma of what is considered beautiful and embrace what uniquely makes you you, and make that a conversation. Open dialogue about your differences, upbringing, and lifestyle with others can bring unity and understanding between people of different race, communities, and class.  Understanding is needed now more than ever. Atypical Appeal promotes A loud message through simple designs so the apparel can be enjoyed by everyone. It is marketed as a lifestyle brand that follows the lives of our models and shows their everyday life wearing the brand. Each story and each conversation is different. All products are purchased from local venders that also support and use our services to promote community support. We love to network with other business and welcome the opportunity to come and support your events and provide promotional shirts. I am most proud of how we support other Atlanta based businesses and our community involvement.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Monday- I would start the week off with great vibes, and the opportunity show my friend the Alpharetta area and go to Cru lounge.

Tuesday- I love going to Views Bar and Grill for lamb chops on Tuesday and Visit the High Museum of Art.

Wednesday- I grew up in Fayetteville, so We would probably go visit my mom, sister, and a few friends from high school. There is a great Mexican spot down there called Freidas.

Thursday- I would pack lunch and plan a hike, I love to visit Amicalola falls and it stays open until 10 pm.

Friday-I would take my friend to the South Side of Atlanta to this new Dinning experience around the corner from my house called the “Rich and Pour” on Cleveland ave. For live music drinks and food.

Saturday-I would try to pack the day full. Breakfast at my favorite diner, Folk art. Little 5 points for shopping, a little people watching and to visit the OutKast mural and take pictures. I would take my friend to a Dine and Design paint and sip so she would have something to take back me remember me. Then back home to get ready for a night out at Copper Cove lounge. The beauty of Atypical Appeal is networking with other business owners. I would make an appointment for both of us to have our makeup done by Alexis Merritt from Karamel Kisses. I am always running late, so I love that she will come to you! I also love supporting Black Female Entrepreneurs like myself.

Sunday- in Atlanta, Brunch is its own love language. I would go to Brunch at Garden Parc. I love the Shabby Chic decor, unlimited mimosas and food, and the great customer service.
Bonfire Atl is on my list any Sunday night.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I have to take time to thank my mother Davena Sanders for never allowing me to believe anything was out of my reach, even if she was secret sliding the finish line closer. She built so much confidence in me that I often feel invincible. Because of this, there have been few things that I won’t try to achieve. As a 37 

year career nurse, She is the motivation behind the physical and mental health focus of Atypical Beauty. Thank you for encouraging me to start “The Conversation”.

The people. Not only in Atlanta buts especially those in Atlanta and neighboring cities that help to contribute to this beautifully diverse city. You are my muse! Of course, anyone that every supported, referred a company or client, purchased or even put on an Atypical Appeal item. Thank you for being a part of “The Conversation”.

I must take time to personally shoutout all my models. Alexis Merritt, Not only is she one of my models, But she is also my personal local makeup artist in Atlanta. Brittany Brewster, for your encouragement and creativity. Azaria Cooper for your support. Joseph Drakeford and Micah Sanders for bringing life to The Atypical Beast Collection In a way I never imagined. I sincerely appreciate your time, dedication, and understanding of the assignment. Remember, We are “The Conversation”.

Website: atypicalappeal.com

Instagram: Instagram.com/Theatypicalappeal

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atypicalappeal

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@theatypicalbeauty

Image Credits
Destinee Burton of NalaO Photo

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