Meet LaTasha Duggan | Owner of Dope Carvings

We had the good fortune of connecting with LaTasha Duggan and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi LaTasha, why did you pursue a creative career?
One word, OUTLET! I had so much built up inside of me after retiring from the Air Force and taking on this new life. I really needed something to do when the house was quiet. I’ve always found that being creative or artistic was a sure way to make one relax and have fun! When you’re able to put your ideas on paper or create things it brings a sense of calm. Being able to build things is like therapy in a sense. It’s an unexplainable high, a rush of endorphins running throughout your body! I believe we’re most creative when we’ve experienced things in our lives; may it be “gone through some things good or bad”. It’s easy to pull from your everyday life to create something beautiful. All creatives have a way of doing so. Ultimately, it brings a sense of peace over you by helping release positive energy into the world!

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Dope Carvings was created by me. I’m a U.S. Air Force retired veteran from a small town called Alabaster, Alabama. I am a wife and stay at home mom who loves all things art.
Making things and painting was actually a hobby while serving my country on active duty. But, after sometime in my shift to retirement (and new mommy mode), I got some new tools and decided to turn it into a business to stay home with my newborn son.

I create home decor, earrings, gifts ‘n things out of wood, acrylic, and leather. I love creating personalized items as an expression of who a person is to the world around them.

What makes my brand different is that I work directly with each customer to create something unique. My mission is to make sure they’re getting what they want and how they want it (with my advice). Although the majority of them give me creative reigns, I still share mocks throughout the process. I love to serve, and prides myself on having excellent customer service. I always put my best foot forward when creating items! I love the bible quote Colossians 3:23: “Whatever You do, Work at it with All Your Heart, as Working for The Lord, not for Men”.

I am most proud that I run the entire operations (from the idea, to creating a website, to customer interactions, social media, designing, shipping, etc) alone and have not received any negative feedback thus far. It is not easy but when I look into my son’s eyes, I give it another go. He has made the challenges easy to overcome (along with God). Every earnings is for him and the less fortunate.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love to try new things and my friends know that. So honestly, I would try to explore places I have never been to include different food. I like to act like a tourist. Therefore, I’d definitely act like I’ve never been nor lived there. I am very spontaneous when it comes to hanging out!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to shout out my husband, Terrance and son, Croix. They have been my biggest supporters. To my husband for not always understanding my joy when I complete a project but providing the tools for me to do what I love! He also gives his opinion & solicited advice from a client’s standpoint quite often. Terrance is always honest and helps me see things from a different perspective. To my son for showing me that I can do anything. There was a time when I didn’t think I’d be able to do anything because of the time spent with him instead of my business (he’s 2 and stopped napping). I wanted to give up several times but he would always lead me to the business and join in on the fun! He showed me that I could do it; and include him too (some tasks) but handle the hard stuff when he goes to sleep. This encourages me to continue creating; and set an example for him.

Website: www.dopecarvings.com

Instagram: www.Instagram.com/dope_carvings

Facebook: www.Facebook.com/dopecarvings