We had the good fortune of connecting with Joy W. and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Joy, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
My name is Joy from Be The Difference Clothing. My business is very different from many others. Our core values is to inspire through printed messages and imagery. I believe it was birth to really make an impact in peoples hearts and especially their minds. In order for the world to change, your mindset has to be a certain way. It’s about practicing having the unseen faith that many people speak/preach about. It’s all about solutions. Our slogan is; “It’ Not Just Clothing … It’s a Way of Life!”
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I distinctly remember the moment I decided to print t-shirts. I was driving home from an event when for the first time in my life I saw a person “stuck”. They were literally standing on the corner bent backwards just swaying a little. After I drove by it hit me … I remember thinking, what am I doing I am no different then the next person who just says to themselves wow so sad. I could no longer stomach being the passerby. It took guts and I battled fear of being rejected to create the Addiction Kills The Family design.
I am at the point where my concern is in comfort and support. This company has many discussion pieces and light hearted playful themes that it can appeal to any age, race or understanding. We even create limited edition socks of which only 12 exist in the world. It helps to keep the creative juices glowing.
I decided to expand the company by participating in presentations, workshops and also printed a few Quotes books.
While it is fun seeing sales and brand growth, what benefit would it be if people did not fully understand the power of each design. My hope is for lives to change, sparks to be lit, hearts to remember or believe in love. Last but not least, each person applying what is shared.
I cannot forget to mention, 10% of all clothing sales goes to Hayden’s Heart charity. They raise awareness for babies who have CHD.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well for starters, we would have to go to support the New Black Wall Street Mall, Martin Luther King’s birth home, T.I’s museum, The Selfie museum and so much more. The best thing about ATL it’s easy to find food and I would say we’d have to spend 1 full day eating all of the soul food and seafood restaurants. When I go back I want to get my feet done by the Pedicure Loft, her shop will be opening very soon.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are too many to name, but I’m thankful that i’ve allowed myself to heal and grow enough to meet amazing people. I consider most encounters as valuable as the next. If I had to, I’d want to say thanks to all of the people who support me on YT, my Dad, Mr. Soto (who helped me on my journey) IG, All of my fellow vendor buddies (who always look out and tell me about different events) family members who cheer for me when I don’t even know, EVERY SINGLE PERSON WHO support by purchasing from my business, Ronnie B, Baby & Kids Unlimited, Gigi, all of the bloggers who have interviewed me. Here are a few recent SadieSaysitAll, Slice of Culture, Hoboken Girl, Heritage HipHop, see now I know I’m going to forget someone so let me stop there..lol
Website: www.bethedifferencellc.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/btdllc
Twitter: www.twitter.com/btdllc
Facebook: www.facebook.com/btdllc
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/BetheDifferenceClothing/about
Other: tiktok www.tikok.com/@btdllc
Image Credits
Headshot by LyteStudios