Meet Darian Bryant: Founder of Daddyin’ Since

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

Hi Darian, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Daddyin’ Since started off as a search for purpose. I have always been creative and enjoy cultivating something from nothing. In my search for what I was passionate about, I discovered I was most passionate about being a Daddy. I decided to release customizable “Daddyin’ Since” shirts in time for Father’s Day 2019. The shirts featured the year men began their journey in fatherhood. This was my part in changing the narrative associated with Black Fatherhood.

My thought process behind starting the business was to change the negative connotation surrounding Black men and their roles as Fathers. Generally, the media depicts the black man as being absent from the home and not fulfilling his responsibilities as a Fatherhood. The Daddyin Since’ brand is for men that take joy in being present, raising their children, and showing up (no matters what it looks like and what it takes).

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
When I started the Daddyin’ Since brand, I was so driven and motivated. I felt like I found my purpose and that the world would gravitate towards it, and it would be life-changing… Moreover, to a certain extent, it has been!

I have been given an opportunity to show my children that what starts as an idea can be brought to fruition if you apply application and stay consistent—being able to plant the ideology that you can create your own “table” rather than beg for a seat at one has been truly rewarding as a parent.

Additionally, I am proud I went from relying on others to fulfilling orders myself and trusting that I could do it! I am responsible for the quality of the product and for managing customer’s expectations. The idea of vertically integrating the business is a definite motivator. I would be lying if I said there weren’t times when I questioned if what I was doing was worth it. If anybody truly cared at all. I was going weeks without order or basing the importance of the brand off of likes on social media. Then out of nowhere, some encouraging words or a large order would appear! The hardest part about this journey has been staying consistent and not giving up! However, again, me determining the self-worth of the brand does not rely on others has helped me overcome that challenge.

I want the world to know about Daddyin’ Since is it is a Black Father advocate lifestyle brand. Its mission is to change the narrative surround Black fatherhood. To showcase the truth, most black fathers are present, take pride in being involved, and enjoy their role. The brand started with the original “Daddyin’ Since” t-shirts. Since then, we have dropped a few additional shirts and even created a “Mommyin’ Since” line. The goal is to celebrate Black Fatherhood. However, we must always honor the way in which we came.

I am most proud that I have shared some very memorable and life-altering moments with other Black Fathers that I usually wouldn’t, and I have found out things about myself that I usually would not. What sets Daddyin’ Since apart from others is that gradually the company is turning into a full-fledged media company. The end goal is to take control of the narrative and tell OUR stories from OUR perspective. I aim to do this through interviews, documentaries, podcasts, short stories, etc.

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?
Huntsville is growing at a rapid pace. There are large corporations moving to the city in addition to a lot of entertainment opportunities coming. I would definitely take them to Mid City! Mid City has a Dave & Busters, rock climbing, TopGolf, and a variety of restaurants. Additionally, downtown Huntsville has a few options as well. However, for a real Huntsville experience, they would have to experience the mom and pop shops around town! Some of the best soul food you have ever tasted comes out of G’s Country Kitchen. After a long night of clubbing, there is a jerk chicken spot called Oasis that will put you where you need to be lol. Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Of course, I have to recognize God first and foremost. The head of my life, and without him, nothing is possible concerning my business though I would like to recognize my family. Ultimately, this business reflects them, from my younger brother helping with graphic design to my wife listening to all my ideas and offering critiques. My family bears witness to all my successes and failures and deserves a shoutout for their support, love, and encouragement. Without my wife and children, I would not understand the plight of the Black Father.

Another contributing factor to my perseverance in business is in large to keeping the spirit of Ermias “Nipsey Hussle” Asghedom alive. Nipsey inspired me in so many ways; however, what I took from him most is running my own marathon and never giving up. To bet on me and reinvest in myself. When it comes to business, there are times where I question whether I am truly making an impact or is it worth it? Gratitude from customers, support from other fathers and family, and Nipsey’s music motivate me to keep going.

Website: www.daddyin-since.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/sameole_d and www.instagram.com/daddyinsince

Facebook: www.facebook.com/daddyinsince