We had the good fortune of connecting with Justin Q. Williams and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Justin Q., we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
When I started Trademark Design Co. I was 18 years old and my thought process behind it was listening to my college professor say “Take what you’re good at and sell it” I thought about what I was good at as well as what I love and that was all things pertaining to design and I decided from there to sell it.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
When I started I just wanted to design homes, but as my professional career grew and new avenues of designed became available to me, It led me to creating a collection of art which is now available in stores such as Arhaus and Crate and Barrel all over the country, as well as designing furniture which is also available in stores worldwide. I’ve learned to never say no to opportunities even when they’re unfamiliar to you. When it comes to brand development, I’ve learned that you must first find out who your target audience is, who is your customer, that way you can communicate directly to them because you’re speaking their language.

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?
If my people are coming to town they like to eat so a few spots we’d visit would be C&S Brookhaven, Thumbs UP, Breakfast Boys, Grits and Eggs, Apt 4B, Chops, and Bones

If we’re just relaxing or grabbing drinks or light bites you can find us at the St. Regis

For lunch with great photo ops i’d definitely take them to Le Bon Nosh

If they need a coffee break we’d go over to Daydreamer Coffee

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I was under great mentorship along my journey. There are two women who took me in and taught me all about the design world. Their names are Annette Joseph and Erika Ward. I learned a great amount from them as a newcomer many years ago and they remain in my life to this very day.

Website: www.TrademarkDesignCo.com

Instagram: @JustinQWilliams

Twitter: @JustinQWilliams

Facebook: Trademark Design Co.

Youtube: Design Driven JQW

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