We had the good fortune of connecting with Keith Fulton II and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Keith, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My thought process on starting my own business was just getting started early. It was important for us to make an impact early in a new city where we can build a legacy here in Nashville. We felt that it was something here that was missing and we wanted to fill the void. The hardest part about starting your own business is actually starting the process. Once you start the hard part is out the way.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I am co owner and CEO of the The Trenches Gallery located in Nashville, TN. What sets us apart from other is that we pride ourselves in giving upcoming black owned brands and artist a platform to showcase there product/art in store and we have a design lab in the back of the store where we create and also give college students the opportunity to intern and use the space if needed. We got to where we are today by always moving forward and figuring out ways we can get better as a business and brand. I would say nothing is easy when running a business because challenges always pops up but the key is to stay focus and face them head on. The way you face the challenges is writing them down, mapping out what went wrong and then finding the solution to make it work. The biggest lesson I’ve learned is having the right team that can help you a lot in the long run. A team that will hold each other accountable and keep everyone focused will always go far in business no matter what it is. I want the world to know that The Trenches Gallery is an upcoming gem with a unique experience and will continue to become a staple in the industry. We will always continue to do our best and provide limitless opportunities for the community.

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 I had a friend coming in town, I would first take him to eat at Slim & Husky which is a black owned Pizza spot. I believe its the best pizza in the country. Of course I would bring him to The Trenches Gallery to check the experience out. Then I would take them to soho house where we would kick it and network there and have a drink.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want send a shoutout to my brother Kristian for loving the idea and believing in me to make it happen. I want to thank my parents for always believing in me. I also want to thank my team and every one for helping us make this happen such as Jennifer, Paige, Amanda, Jeff, Faraji, Donell, Malik, and Kyle.

Website: thetrenchesshop.com

Instagram: @thetrenchesgallery / @thevision1_

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keith-fulton-1521951b3/

Twitter: @KFultonII

Image Credits
@orgnzd.visuals – LeXander Bryant

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