Meet D’Andria Jackson: CEO/Senior Graphic Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with D’Andria Jackson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi D’Andria, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
The thought process behind me starting my own business was my passion for art. At the early age of 8, I began to draw Disney characters from the coloring book pages. My very 1st character I drew was Goofy. I then started perfecting my skills by entering the “Who Can Draw it Better Contest” in magazines. I recognized so many of my drawings looked better than the originals in the magazines. Although I never won, I didn’t let that discourage me. With the support of my parents, I knew someday art would be a very important factor in my life. Years passed and I began to incorporate the use of computers to aid in my creativity. I taught myself to design flyers, posters, business cards and more. I even landed a few projects with small graphic design companies. By the time I reached college, where I attended the Art Institute of Atlanta, I knew then this is what I wanted to do with my life and career; I wanted to create with all mediums, paint, pencil, computers, and bring people’s ideas to life. Upon preparing for college, I realized I wanted to combine my love for art with the graphic designing I taught myself to do, I chose to attend The Art Institute of Atlanta to further my education and knowledge of art and graphic design. Even with the “Corporate America” jobs I had, I was still doing visual art. From changing out mannequins and setting up the store displays at Old Navy, to creating manuals and marketing for a small Trust Firm, art has followed me wherever I went. After juggling both Corporate America and running my own business, Debonair Designs for over 18 years, I finally decided that Debonair Designs; now Debonair Designs and Graphics, LLC, would be my one and only profession.

What should our readers know about your business?
Debonair Designs was founded in 2002. We are your one stop shop company for all of your printing and design needs. With expertise in logo design, packaging, brochures, presentation designs, business cards, Facebook pages, custom apparel and more, Debonair Designs & Graphics delivers quality end results without breaking the bank. The road was definitely not an easy one. Trying to run and start a business as teenager and still wanting to be a teenager did not mix. I had to learn to be business minded. With help from my parents and well know business owners I began to understand how to run a business. It took a lot of long nights and sacrifices, but in the end, it was definitely all worth it. What sets me apart from other graphic designers is my ability to create raw natural designs. Whether I free hand draw them on paper, canvas, or using the computer. What I provide for my clients is custom one-of-a kind designs. I am very grateful for all of the relationships I have been able to cultivate during this journey. I cannot wait to see where God is going to take me and this business!

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?
Atlanta, Georgia is filled with so many things to do and places to eat. I would start off with breakfast at a small little spot in Conyers, Nana’s Chicken & Waffles. The fried chicken is fried to perfection and the waffles are light and fluffy. It’s a taste of New Orleans brought to Atlanta. A few of the places I like to visit are, the High Museum, Big Escape Rooms, and even indoor skydiving. For lunch we would definitely check out Ms. Icey’s Kitchen and Bar. The lambchops with the roasted potatoes and cheese eggs are the BEST! I definitely have a love for good food, and Atlanta has so many options to choose from. If we wanted to get away and relax, I would definitely include Chateau Elan for a weekend of relaxation after and long week of adventure. From the massages to the ambiance, and definitely the food and wine tasting, this place is a must for some quiet rest and relaxation. Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost I must honor. God. Without Him I would not be where I am today, in life or with my business. My parents, Calvin and Valerie Cooper. No matter what profession I chose they’ve always been supportive of me. When I decided to be a full time entrepreneur, they stood by me with every decision made and have become a major part of the company. I am humble at the fact I got to retire my parents and we have really made this a family business. My daughters, Danielle and Deserae, my niece Angel, and my nephew Bryce have also been my motivation and key factor in the running of the business as well. It makes me smile to see their interest in running a business and hopefully becoming entrepreneurs themselves one day. I also would like to shoutout Antoine Carmichael aka R&B recording artist Carmichael Musiclover. With every expansion of Debonair Designs and Graphics, he has been there front and center. Despite his busy schedule with touring and working, he has always made time to assist and be apart of new design concepts and marketing strategies, as well as giving support and encouragement.

Website: www.debonairink.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/debonairdesigns.dj

Facebook: www.facebook.com/debonairdesigns.dj

Image Credits
Image Credits Danielle Thomas – daughter