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

Hi Asia, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Since 2018, my goal has been to outfit educators with comfortable, eye-catching, and educational TEACH-Shirts designed to make a statement both in and out of the classroom. As an educator myself, I know that teachers have one of the hardest jobs. In reality, our roles as teachers are much more complex. We juggle a dozen roles every day – we are multi-tasking managers, calming counselors, data analysts, inventors, interventionists, and even event coordinators. Why not be comfortable while making an “thought provoking” fashion statement? TEACH-Shirts was created under the simple motto: Influence. Inspire. In fashion.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
What sets my business apart from others are my eye-catching and relevant designs (mostly) geared toward education. TEACH-Shirts are comfy and uniquely created to reflect everyday teachers and classroom culture.

As far as starting a business, it’s absolutely not easy… it’s still not easy to this day. I continue to juggle teaching full-time and pouring into my business. One of my biggest challenges was learning to balance time. To keep my business thriving, I often lean on the teacher community: soliciting feedback, testing designs in real classrooms, and prioritizing improvements rather than trying to keep up with other competitors. Persistence, a willingness to learn and ask for help, as well as listening were essential to the success I see today.

Key lessons I’ve learned: (1) Keep the buyer in mind (in this case, TEACHERS) – know what they need and want, gather their feedback, and constantly improve; (2) quality and value win customers, so don’t cut corners; (3) authenticity is a brand’s greatest amplifier — marketing is great, but genuine relationships with customers is better; and (4) don’t compare yourself to others – keep your vision and pace yourself… growth matters more than overnight success.

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 love this question because as Summer Break is approaching for teachers, it’s important to think about what plans to make and where to go for a good time. As for me, I’m pretty simple… I enjoy a nice atmosphere, delicious food, a tasty cocktail, a little music, and maybe a little eye candy (I AM a single girl in the city)! For coffee or a quick bite for breakfast, you can catch me at Black Coffee Atlanta, Emerald City Bagels, or Gutbusters. Some of my favorite places to eat are Steamhouse Lounge, Ruby Chows, Toast on Lenox, Rock Steady… and I can’t forget my favorite turkey burger spot, Mix’D Up Burgers. If I want to step out to catch a vibe, I might head to Ponce City Rooftop and go to 9 Mile Station or grab a drink somewhere at the Battery – depending on the night, you may find me at Fin & Feathers! For the times I want to feel touristy, a visit to the Georgia Aquarium or the High Museum – First Fridays are always a good time! If the weather is nice, my friends and I may go hiking at Sweetwater Park or Amicalola Falls. I’m known to find a Wind Down Wednesday or pop up at a festival or concert. Plainly put, I enjoy a little bit of everything!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to give a heartfelt shoutout to my incredible circle of support — my mom, dad, family, and closest friends. From the very beginning, they’ve been right there beside me. I still remember days when I had big orders to fill and my parents were out in the garage with me, folding and sorting shirts without hesitation. My best friend has also put in her fair share of time in the “shop” helping me get things done — honestly, I probably owe her a shirt or two!

My village has played such a huge role in my journey. Their support, encouragement, and belief in me have meant everything. They’re the ones who keep me motivated and remind me to keep pushing forward – even after a long day at school when skidding out the parking lot, and crawling into bed is my only goal. I truly wouldn’t be where I am today without them, and I’m beyond grateful.

Shoutout to everyone who has purchased a TEACH-Shirt thus far! Sincerely, thank you for supporting my small (black-owned) business!

Website: https://www.teachshirtsco.com

Instagram: @teachshirtsandco

Facebook: @teachshirtsandco

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