We had the good fortune of connecting with Aisha Midgett and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Aisha, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Life has taught me that with great risks comes great rewards or either great lessons. When it comes to risk and risk-taking, I believe that you have to be willing to go after your vision and dreams —— even if that means you’re the only one that can see them!
I can’t tell you the amount of times I’ve looked back at a risk I took, and had an incredible amount of gratitude wash over me. Gratitude for the person (me) who had the courage and faith in taking that leap.
Almost 2 years ago, one of her closest friends was diagnosed with only weeks to live and I remember her taking certain risks and living with good intention before she passed. Her beautiful light, courage and love for life inspired me so much and that’s why I plan to continue to face my fears and take great risks.
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 entrepreneur life: In 2020, I went through a difficult transition, where I felt unseen, unworthy and hopeless. And, I felt like other Womxn (especially Black Womxn) may have felt the same way. That’s what led me to create a brand that would not only empower myself, but empower other Womxn (& Men, too) to realize that they are capable of achieving and being more.
House of B&J Collection is an inclusive lifestyle brand created to empower the lives of Womxn by reminding them of their worth. House of B&J Collection achieve this by providing positivity-focused products and designs that serve as daily reminders —— reminding us who we are and who we are destined to be. Within my brand, I speak of things like gratitude, healing, achieving success, and supporting/uplifting each other. But most of all about self-care and self-love.
One of my favorite designs from the collection is the “Rich Auntie Vibes”. Often times when someone speaks of “Rich Auntie Vibes” he or she may associate the term with a Womxn having extreme wealth or having expensive possessions. But Rich Auntie Vibes, has nothing to do with monetary wealth or expensive material items, but more so to do with the richness of living a life of abundance and redefining and celebrating our own meaning of Womxnhood.
My career life: I’m a service-focused social worker with over 15 years of experience working in the field of social service. I’m passionate about working with and servicing the vulnerable populations who are in the climate of behavioral health, substance abuse, homelessness, crisis and trauma to support positive life styles, healing and recovery. I take pride in “making some noise and getting in good trouble, necessary trouble” like the great John Lewis would say and encourage.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Atlanta is always a good time. Some of my favorite places are Little 5 Points Atlanta —— I go for the vibes and vibes only!
Krog Street Tunnel —— one of my favorite places I go to get inspired.
Busy Bees, I’m obsessed with their chicken and dressing!
Lenox mall for some retail therapy.
A visit to the Trap Museum and Boogalou restaurant & lounge are definitely on the list to visit. Including, dinner at the roof of Ponce city market.
Last but never least, Breakfast at Barney’s. Me and my girls love a good brunch!
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I am so grateful to be surrounded by so many amazing people who have been so supportive throughout my journey as an entrepreneur. I would like to take this opportunity to give a special shoutout to my late grandmothers, Bernice and Jessie Mae. The House of B&J Collection is dedicated to them, hence the name “B&J”. Sadly, my grandmother Bernice passed before I was born, but I have always felt her ancestral guidance throughout my life. Jessie Mae, who I describe as “the sweetest person ever”, has been a major inspiration for my style and grace. Collectively, these two phenomenal women serve as the muses for the House of B&J Collection.
To my parents: Thank you for being my backbone and my loudest cheerleaders. My parents have always been instrumental in ALL of my accomplishments. I’ve been fortunate enough to grow up with a father and mother who supports me in everything I do. Without their constant and consistent support, I would not be the woman I am today. So, thank you mom and dad! I love you both!
To my partner + forever bestfriend. Thank you for always seeing me, especially in the moments when I struggle with seeing myself. Your immense love, encouragement, and support throughout this journey called “life” means the world to me. I’m reminded everyday that having a partner who encourages you to be your best self and who wants to see you win in life —— is truly a blessing.
I also want to thank my dear friend Bee! Thank you, Bee for always reminding me that I’m worthy, loved, and seen. I love you deep, Bee!
To my business coach Diego Hodge, thank you for always reminding me that the sky’s the limit and that I’m more than capable of reaching my dreams.
Last but not least, to the community of House of B&J Collection, thank you for being you but most of all thank you for being here with me —— it means the world! Xo, Aisha.
Website: www.houseofbj.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/hobj.co?igshid=YTY2NzY3YTc=
Twitter: @hobjco
Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/hobj.co/
Image Credits
Images by Cam K. + Stephen M.