Meet Ayanna Maria | Women’s Streetwear Brand Owner

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

Hi Ayanna, how do you think about risk?

For me, life is a risk.

Waking up and assuming that your day will go as planned is a risk; physically and mentally.

With my brand I throw out ideas and designs and I risk that they will be received with excitement (and orders placed). A lot of times, that’s not the case. Taking those risks though, have allowed me to grow and develop on a personal and professional level.

Every time, I gain knowledge  on how to navigate situations, what designs my market wants to see, and just how to roll with the punches.

Risks are necessary. Don’t be to scared to do something!

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.
I got to where I am with my brand by letting God speak to me and actually taking action.

It definitely was not easy. I had to deal with negativity from people I looked up to, friends, and clients. People who I assumed just were too frightened the capacity in which I am available to help them grow would change. (Of course it didn’t because I love them, haha!) I also had issues with social media, my website, my products and more at my initial launch.

I overcame all this by remaining faithful in my goals and aspirations. I researched and prepared during these hiccups and pushed through to success in the end!

I have learned that life is going to happen but how you push back is what matters. My brand is a baby. I am approaching my first year. To anyone launching a brand, it’ll be tough (tough as hell) before it gets good but you got this!

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?
I am bit of a square so clubs and lounges are off the table. I am a eat, relax and shop kind-of-girl.

On a long weekend we definitely have to get brunch. We are starting off at Dr. Bombay’s. One for the vibe and two for the food 

Then we’re heading to Little five points for a little shopping at Rag-o-Rama and to check out my products in The Pink Zebra.

Next, onwards to Ponce City Market. They always have something fun going at the rooftop.

At the end of the night we can go to Storico Vino for a quick bite and back to my home for lots of champagne and girl talk.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to thank my supportive friends and family. You guys knew I could do this before I knew I could!

Website: ayannamaria.com

Instagram: instagram.com/ayannamariab

Other: instagram.com/shopayannamaria