Meet Lpretty B | Fashion Designer & Entrepreneur

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

Hi Lpretty B, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
The thought process behind starting any of my businesses were to find something I enjoyed doing that I was passionate about. I did not want to just start a business based on its financial gain because eventually that would get old. I wanted it to be something I need little to no motivation to get up and do every day. To say it’s not totally about financial gain is not realistic because in order to have a successful business you must invest in it. I eventually thought about how these businesses will impact me and my children in the future. I want to be able to build an empire from one of businesses that will speak to my creativity. Starting my own business came from not wanting to have to be overworked and underpaid. I realized that even being well educated you would eventually still be helping build someone else’s empire while yours just lay dormant in your mind. I want to take action for my dreams. I want to at least try.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
To shorten this, I am going to narrow this down to my professional life and career as a fashion designer. When I was younger, I only had visions of being a part of the professions we often seen on career days. I grew up thinking I had to be a doctor or lawyer. I did not have access to certain resources or programs. I wasn’t exposed to certain things that would have heightened my interest in certain fields. So, whenever I went to the mall or got my hands on certain magazine’s I could always envision myself right there. I looked forward to the day I purchased my first sewing machine. My art is personal. It is inspiring and elegant. It is sexy and vital. What sets me apart from other designer’s is that I am not afraid to explore fashion in all ways. I am most proud the moments I produce full garments. I am most excited about my future in fashion and as a designer. It took alot of discipline for me to get where I am today professionally. I had to do so much research on what make’s and breaks a business and I am still learning. It was not easy because I had no one to turn to about any questions or concerns. I feel like everything I know today I learned from trial and error. In order to overcome challenges in business you have to be consistent. One of the most important lessons I have learned along the way is that all money is not good money. I want the world to know that I am not going to give up by any means necessary.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I don’t get out much so this would have to be a joint effort lol. I probably would do some research on the area and try it out. I am still learning to travel and explore other places and things to do.

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?
You know they say it takes a village to raise a child……..I have to dedicate this to my village. As a single mother it is extremely difficult to raise children and find work/life balance. Therefore, having dreams are not ideal. My support system has been amazing since I started my first business almost six years ago. From picking my children up from school to taking them to dentist and doctor appointments for me when I couldn’t leave work or was at work late. No hesitation. From cooking and cleaning for me so I can get rest and take a break. Ugh this is bringing me to tears. My mom deserves recognition in my story because she has held me down from day one.

Instagram: www.instagram.com/LprettyB