We had the good fortune of connecting with James “JT” Thomas and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi James “JT”, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I’m from Fayetteville, NC. Growing up, my parents always told me to give whatever I wanted to do 100% or nothing at all. I always had ambitions & dreams to work for myself, be my own boss. I was also the black sheep of my family, so not many could see my vision or really even believed in me. So I turned that into motivation & a chip on my shoulder to not only push myself forward, but to also show everyone that doubted me how resilient & determined I am.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My business is called the Official 1 Brand. It’s a proud, Black-owned multimedia company that specializes in the fields of graphic design, photography and videography. Official 1 Brand (O1B) was always a goal of mine, ever since I was in high school, but originally was just for graphic design. However, while I was serving in the Army as a graphic designer, I was trained in photography & videography. That’s when I realized that I could truly create art in multiple ways.

When I first got out the Army in 2018, I tried to learn under more established photographers. I never really knew how to work with models or different ways of lighting, so I figured that shadowing someone would really be beneficial. However, everyone said “no”. Nobody wanted to give me a chance. So I took the time & learned everything I could myself, using all the negativity & closed doors as motivation to push forward for the goals I had. The road was never easy, but neither is being an entrepreneur. I’ve had several moments where I just wanted to give up, but I know I can’t. My Prince & Princess are counting on me. So I keep going, and as of April 2021 I’ve been working solely for myself.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned so far on this journey is that you have to be resilient. You have to have a solid plan in place, and most importantly a strong team. As long as you keep your focus, and remember what & why you’re doing what you’re doing, you can make it. It’s ok to fall or fail sometimes, that’s part of it all. Get up, brush yourself off, and keep going.

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?
Honestly, I’m a home body lol. I don’t really go out often. I’d be home with the kiddos mainly. But Fayetteville has some amazing talent! We have the best makeup artist (and total vibe) that you’ll ever meet in Krystal Kelley (IG: @kolormekayy__)! Also my business partners Aneisha & Sabrina, the owners of Selfie WRLD Fayetteville!

Downtown Fayetteville has its own vibe so of course I’d recommend it to anyone. Also, Crown Fried Chicken. 10/10. You won’t regret it!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There’s a few people I have to shoutout:

– Tia (Tea With Tia) for sending my information to you

– Vinny Elgen, for taking me under his wing & being a great mentor and role model

– My parents, Vincent & LaVallee McMillan, for bringing me into the world

– My brothers William, Stephen & Michael, for having my back no matter what

– My amazing sister Hannah & the worlds greatest nephew, Aiyden

– My late grandfather, James C. McCoy, for always being there since I was young, helping me become the man I am today

-Lakisa Stokes, for being a great friend, teammate, an amazing model, and always there when I need advice

-Imani Boone, my amazing midget sister!!! One of the greatest models EVER & a truly great person. Love you so much!!!

– My amazing cousin Michael Ward, who’s been my partner in crime since we’ve been walking!

Last & most important, the reason I work so hard, my motivation in life, the greatest gifts I’ve ever received, my handsome Prince Messiah & Princess Naomi. You two are the most important parts of my life & I’m blessed to be your father!!!

Website: www.official1brand.com

Instagram: Instagram.com/official1jt

Facebook: James Thomas (The Official One)

Other: Instagram.com/Official1Brand

Image Credits
Models: Krystal Kelley (IG: @kolormekayy__) Gabrielle Boone (@_couragekills_) Brandi Shonté (@cocoalocz) Yazmine West (@theeonlyyaz) Brittany (@__.bh) Meashá (@bela.noire) Zakaelia Bellamy (@lone_wolf_zb) Photos taken by James “JT” Thomas (@official1jt) of the Official 1 Brand (@official1brand)

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