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

Hi Al, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
“Your only liable limitation is yourself” – Big Boi, Outkast

I’ve been reciting this lyric/quote since I was in high school. It means everything to me. It reminds me that I am in control as well as held accountable in reference to my actions. It also reminds me that I am the only person stopping me from accomplishing my goals. When things go wrong as they sometimes will, rather than giving up I must find another way to make things happen.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Affiliated Apparel Boutique is minimal lifestyle brand that focuses on tone and comfort. I take pride being genuine and truly appreciative for every customer as well as supporter of my brand. I started in 2018 and had absolutely no idea what I was getting myself into. It was hobby that turned passion for me. I leveraged my network of socialites, former classmates, and fraternity brothers to spread the word that I was open for business. I hosted fashion shows as well as networking events to grow the name of Affiliated Apparel and also created an annual event weekend called The Affiliated Experience. I’ve collaborated with a variety of people from various walks of life to gain exposure for the brand. None of this is easy, but it is necessary for the growth of my business. I’ve learned that as a business owner of any kind, you must be confident in your product/service and resilient in marketing/advertising. With clothing in particular, you must understand everyone who views your products may not always love them and you must set your personal feelings aside. I also had to learn to stop letting social media determine my success.

I want the world to know that I am an honest, hardworking, entrepreneur and the best is yet to come for Affiliated Apparel and I.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
In Charlotte, you can find some of everything going on depending on the day. My personal preference is black owned businesses and anywhere that isn’t super packed. Here’s a list of my go to places:

7th Restaurant
What the Fries
Lola’s Maryland Style Kitchen
Tattoz & Booze CLT
321 Lounge
Recess
Optimist Hall
Camp North End
Noda Creative Studios

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I dedicate this shoutout to my daughter Braelynn and my good friends/business associates Kia, Shamar, and Aaron.

Website: https://affiliatedapparelbtq.bigcartel.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/albowmanofficial/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/narcisobowman/

Image Credits
Dee Michel Jaslyn Peterson

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