We had the good fortune of connecting with Dara Jones and Ivory Stinson and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Dara & Ivory, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Following the birth of our children, we both struggled to adapt to motherhood. Breastfeeding issues, postpartum anxiety and depression, and just plain old missing the single life made our adjustment pretty rocky. We knew we couldn’t be the ONLY women with these feelings, but finding one who looked like us and willing to talk about it was difficult. Our own personal experiences led us to create a space to uplift other women dealing with similar situations.
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.
We are excited to have a space where we can share our experiences with other women. We are proud to continue developing a space where women can relate to us, feel seen and heard.
As a brand we feel like we’re still developing. It’s not always easy but we’re committed to being consistent. Our dedication to sharing our story plays a major factor in overcoming any challenge. Each message or comment we get from women who can relate to our story feels like a measure of success.
We’ve learned that being vulnerable is difficult but necessary to relate to our audience. Also, if there’s something that you feel passionate about, JUST START! You don’t have to wait for the perfect moment, setting, or situation. Act like Nike and Just Do It.
We want the world to know that it’s okay if your feelings don’t match the stereotypical projection of motherhood. It’s okay to be vulnerable when necessary, ask for help when you need it, and know that you’re not alone in your journey.
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?
If you’re looking for kid-friendly ideas the Georgia Aquarium and Atlanta Zoo are always fun. The airport is our favorite spot because that means we’re going places. You can never go wrong with Slutty Vegan.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Dara Jones- I have to shoutout God and my support system. My amazing family and friends carried me through some dark times after I had my daughter. They fed me, they visited me, they prayed for me, they watched my daughter and gave me a break. They let me vent and basically took care of me.
Ivory Stinson- I have to shoutout the women in my “village.” All of the wonderful women who taught me so many valuable lessons on motherhood, marriage, and salvation. Without their guidance, continual prayer, support, encouragement and love I wouldn’t be who I am today.
Website: www.theebonyandivory.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/ebonyandivoryblog
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ebonyandivoryblog
Other: info@theebonyandivory.com
Image Credits
Phase 1 Photography