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

Hi Dion, do you disagree with some advice that is more or less universally accepted?
Hard work will only get you to the top not talent!

There are so many components to success and I think the go-to answer is just to tell someone to “work hard” which is true in many respects. However you equally have to have talent, direction and purpose to create and sustain what you have earned. Our talents either entertainment or art based have unlocked many doors for entrepreneurs and created revenue for large brands. I believe that hard work and talent must work in tandem to yield success.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Absolutely. Well in a nutshell I create unique luxury neckwear using feathers , leather goods and soft velvet fabrics to convey an experience when worn.

I think what sets me apart from others is the intentional, and personalized aspect of design. It’s so easy to mass produce a product like other brands . But with each tie I create I always wanted to give a personalized approach to our pieces.

To answer your question of how I got to where I am professionally today? I think it was a series of steps starting from age 8, learning how to hand sew , and post- college using those skills to make my own neckwear for work to offset clothing cost and to show my creativity. I remember teachers and staff members at work would commission me to sew their neckwear just based off of what I modeled as a school librarian

Was it easy? Yes and no. I hate to straddle the line on this answer. because I believe it was my purpose to create and I was being prepared to sew at young age not even knowing that it would bring me to this point . But there were challenges with self- doubt and always being consistent. I remember telling God in prayer if you want me to do this Lord stay on me because you know how I am . And I believe He has heard my prayer. I’ve been sewing professionally for about 15 yrs now.

Lessons learned?

There is an old saying “don’t overdrive your headlights at night” and I use that as a metaphor for my business.

It’s okay to have a greater vision for your business because it shows a growth mindset , but don’t overwork or extend yourself past what you can deliver to and for your client. The goal for me is to create a premium quality product that can be passed down from one generation to another generation.

What do want the world to know about my brand and story?

My brand and story is based truly in love and it is an extension of the teachings from my great grandmother, mother then to me . I truly want to Create an Experience for my clients and those that may witness our work.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I definitely would feel out their energy after that journey to see me. Have you ever had a bad flight and just wanted a nap first, lol! But honestly I would break down the trip into 3 key facets . The education aspect of the region , the local foods that are indigenous to the area and the the “turn up” (entertainment, clubs, or bars) .

I travel back and forth to Mobile al. So I would definitely recommend Kazoola Eatery and bar, the Hit House. Lit cigar bar for slow burn Sundays. For good authentic Mexican food Taqueria de Mexico and be open to the beach. Or even a trip to New Orleans check out Frenchman St. You will not be disappointed.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely, I want to Shoutout Candice Minnifield and Amberly from NSpire U in Mobile Al. This mother and daughter team has poured into my business. Not only as clients but with words of affirmation and encouragement. I feel like their purpose directly falls in line with meeting the needs of young creatives.

Website: https://www.tiesbydion.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tiesbydion_

Facebook: https://Facebook.com/tiesbydion

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@tiesbydion

Image Credits
Kelvin Cortez

Henri McGuire
Henritakespictures

Dion Campbell

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.