We had the good fortune of connecting with Arendez Fedd and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Arendez, looking back, what do you think was the most difficult decision you’ve had to make?
The most difficult decision I’ve ever had to make was deciding to give up a Division I football scholarship for a dream with no plan. In the midst of being in college I found out many things about myself, the most important thing being that I was living my life based on what made other people happy, what other people wanted for my future. And to give up what most people could only dream of, for a search of my own desires, was the hardest decision I’ve ever had to make
What should our readers know about your business?
I’ve always aimed to obtain any knowledgeable information I can and to always give maximum effort in anything I do. So I will take anything I’ve been taught and try to maximize its potential. Being teachable even when I started to become profitable has been the biggest thing that I’ve been most proud of and has contributed to my success thus far. And that has led me to where I am today business-wise and I believe that alone sets me apart, I’m always learning. Being teachable hasn’t been much of a hassle for me due to the fact that I previously played sports for years and it has greatly molded me into who I am in the entrepreneurship world. One thing I would like for the world to know about me is that I am not perfect, and I, like everyone else, do not have it all figured out. But as long as we continue to love one another and progress, together we can accomplish great feats, and individually, accomplish dreams. Through the midst of my entrepreneurial journey, I’ve learned that you aren’t responsible for what happens to you, but you are responsible for how you respond. And how you respond represents you and your brand.
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.
I don’t go out much but a few places that are always nice to check out for me are the Beltline or Piedmont Park, the Battery ATL, and definitely a football game at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium or a basketball game or concert at State Farm Arena. A few of my favorite places to eat are Gocha’s Breakfast Bar, Peach Cobbler Cafe, and almost any Mexican Restaurant you can get to. Places I know I’d also visit are Atlantic Station, Lennox Mall, Andretti’s, and Fun Bowl Bowling Alley.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My first shout out goes to God, Jesus Christ my Lord and Savior who carries and guides me each and everyday. My second shoutout goes to my mom Akisha, who has given the most difficult time about chasing a dream because she always ensures that I am in the right headspace to take on the work it takes to accomplish it, no matter the hassle. My next shoutout goes to my best friend Ghetti Brown, who taught me how to cut hair in my college dorm, in his aunt’s living room, and even in the football team hotel some nights before gameday. My next shoutout goes to Kennesaw State and its 2021 Big South Champion football team, for filling my dorm room every Wednesday and Thursday so I could cut their hair and for heavily supporting my athletic apparel by showing it off on social media and wearing it around campus. They were the foundation of my current success. My next shoutout goes to Justin Walton, who helped me start my apparel brand while I’d travel back home from college just to build upon the small idea. And a big shoutout to his parents Mr. John and Mrs. Noni who let us use their costly materials, computer and design platform hours at a time to find the perfect brand to create. One major shoutout goes to each and every one of my clients and anyone who reps my brand; many of who drive hours at a time to come get their haircut and those who tirelessly wear my brand to workout, compete in high school and collegiate sports, or even just to the grocery store. My last shoutout goes to my steppops James, who constantly and unknowingly provides me with an insane amount of support and guidance when it comes to decision making, mentorship, and being a great display of hard work.
Instagram: @f7deral @federalactivewear @federalcutzz
Image Credits
Pics by Arendez Fedd, Omari Blake