We had the good fortune of connecting with Dr. Pamela Reaves and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dr. Pamela, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit and have been a part of other successful business, but none of them were mine alone. I would always get so far, and then the business would flat line. I figured if I did something on my own, what could I lose. I pondered in my head, “What do I like doing that I would do for free, and what do I search or view on-line all day long?” The answer was something in the world of fashion. Thus, I hired a mentor and the process began.
 

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?
I am a earring mogul that has been blessed to recognize and demonstrate the power of the Pivot. I originally graduated from college with an engineering degree. I knew that I didn’t want to work for the Army Corps of Engineers and retire with a gold watch so, I quit and decided to go back to school to become an educator. Both positions were considered safe and respectable jobs. Something my parents would be proud of, but I have always LOVED fashion. Thus, after 25 years of being in the field of education, I decided to chase my dreams and go for what I loved. And, Esoteric Exclusive was born. Being in the fashion industry is something I would do for free, so has it been hard? The answer is no. I wish I would of stepped out on faith a long time ago. We are living in a time period where kids are able to view non traditional jobs on television and know that the sky is the limit. A cook is no longer a cook. They are master chefs. With this generation, the sky is the limit. I also want to inspire the seasoned people to let them know it is never too late to follow their dreams.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my friends came to visit me, they would definitely have a good time. Lets say they flew in on a Thursday evening. I would have a fish fry at my house with great food and drinks because I am a great cook. We would like the fire pit on my deck, listen to an array of music and have a great time. Friday morning, we would get up and grab some food from Gut Busters, where they would be able to fill their stomach for under ten dollars. We would hit the mall. Probably Lenox because that’s all people from out of town know about. After shopping we would come back to my house for rest and relaxation. That night we would go to one of my my favorite restaurants, Two Urban Licks. Saturday morning, I am cooking a big breakfast and then we are heading down to Ponce City Market to visit the shops, hang out and take a soap making class. Sunday, we are going to church and then to my favorite restaurant for brunch, The Real Milk and Honey. Monday, we will hang out and watch Netflix and then that evening go the Bar Vegan for dinner and jazz. Tuesday, and Wednesday. We will visit the King Center, World of Coke and Georgia Aquarium. After that, it is time for them to head home. I need some rest.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My immediate family has always been my support system. Any vision I have, my family helps to craft and bring my vision to fruition. In regards to the fashion industry, I have always been in LOVE with fashion since a young girl. Thus, I thought I wanted to create a fashion line. I obtained a mentor, Alexis House of XELA and VIC and she assisted me with forming my vision. I initially wanted to start my own fashion line, but shortly realized that wasn’t the direction I wanted to go in. Before I met Alex, I already had started designing earrings and decided to use her advice to focus on my earring line. Afterwards, I knew the power of mentorship, and obtained the assistance of Dr. Heavenly Kines to bring my vision to life. My husband, son, and daughter are my buyers, advisors, social media experts and all around cheerleaders that make my vision what it is today.

Website: esotericexclusive.com

Instagram: esoteric_exclusive

Facebook: Pamela Smith-Reaves

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