We had the good fortune of connecting with Avari Suber and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Avari, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
I currently attend college and manage my apparel business on the side. It was difficult for me to manage the two, so I had to formulate a plan. I taught myself how to master time management. I create an agenda every week and a daily schedule. I prioritize the time I spend on my academics. I balance the remaining time to manage my apparel business, workout, and spend time with my family and friends. My balance is productive because I accomplish the goals that I set every day. I feel that if I continue to keep a balance, I will be a successful entrepreneur someday.
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?
Avari Apparel is the apparel business that I created in July 2020. Avari Apparel is unique because I think creatively. I learned how to cater to my customers and give them my individualized touch to apparel. For instance, bandana puffer jackets were popular in Winter 2021. People were ordering their jackets from boutiques and other websites. I found a way to encourage customers to get their bandana puffer jackets from me. Avari Apparel puffers were unique because customers were able to choose colors that complement their sneakers. Customers also had the choice of customizing their jackets and adding their names to them. I have created pieces that were in remembrance of deceased loved ones. I have seen people in tears when they see the finished product because it is so meaningful to them. I am happy every time I see a customer admiring the design and I feel honored that they chose me to bring their ideas to life. I am also proud that I always hear people saying good things about me and are impressed by my creativity. I am most excited about releasing a collection. I have always wanted to start a clothing line so that my unique creations will be available to customers worldwide. I was able to get where I am today from hard work, dedication, and advertisement. I have made sacrifices to ensure that every customer is happy. I have overcome challenges such as machine malfunctions, injuries, personal and family issues, etc. I overcame most challenges by ensuring that I am fully equipped, learning to rest my body and mastering time management. A lesson I learned along the way is to keep a positive mindset. To perform at my best, I must keep a strong mindset and not allow any negativity to bring me down. I learned that your mindset can be your biggest enemy. I want the world to know that I will overcome any obstacle that may cross my path. I will have a major impact on the fashion industry!
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 live in a small town called Pomaria, SC. There is not a selection of venues to go to in my city. I do enjoy going to venues in a nearby city, Newberry, SC. In Newberry, SC I enjoy going to Many Moons Artistry rooftop. I love eating their pizza and looking at rooftop views. The Newberry Arts Center is exciting as well. The Newberry Arts Center has art classes, or you can rent the venue and host a paint and sip. The paint and sips are extremely relaxing. Since there is not much to do in my hometown, I usually travel 30 minutes to Columbia, SC. I recommend going to venues in Downtown Columbia. The Riverbanks Zoo is a fun place to visit for a family day. The Columbia Museum of Art has a beautiful art collection. There is a large variety of art such as paintings and sculptures. California Dreaming is a nice restaurant to visit, and it has amazing views of the city. Their blackened chicken pasta and croissants are delightful. I also enjoy attending a University of South Carolina Girl’s Basketball game at the Colonial Life Arena.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to dedicate my story to my mother. I was always interested in making clothes for my dolls. I used to design and hand-sew the doll clothes. My mother saw the uniqueness and creativity in me, so she bought my first sewing machine when I was 12 years old. She taught me how to operate the sewing machine and how to make clothing. Since the start-up of Avari Apparel, she has supported me every step of the way. There have been long nights where I felt exhausted and wanted to give up, but she pushed me to finish. She has always been willing to help me out by getting the materials I need and sometimes dropping off customers’ orders to them. She has made sacrifices to ensure that my business operates successfully. She encourages me to stay positive and keep a close relationship with God. I always feel inspired and loved by my mother. She is the reason that I am successful today.
Website: https://avariapparel.bigcartel.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/avariapparel/?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/avari.suber?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Image Credits
Kameelah Suber