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

Hi LaToria, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Self Defense is my passion. Has been for a long time. When I looked at the market, I saw a lot of people selling self defense items, but wasn’t doing the necessary work to make sure their customers new how to properly use different self defense tools. With the encouragement of family and friends, I took a big leap of faith and started Shae’Fense. I didn’t know much about having a business, but I knew that I wanted to contribute in my own way!

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
What I tell most people is that ” I don’t sell cute, I sell real!” Self defense has been apart of my life since age 7, when I first stepped on the mat to take a Taekwondo class. It was only up from there. The passion to help other learn and have the tools to protect themselves started at a young age. Starting this business and seeing people actually feel just a bit more confident walking the streets is what keeps me going. Shae’Fense is more than just my business, it’s a lifestyle. Providing others with the knowledge as well as the self defense tools is a way to fulfill my purpose in my life.

I want people to understand that you don’t have to be in Martial arts to learn how to protect yourself. Learning how to properly use pepper spray or perfecting a simple technique will be more helpful to your everyday life.

I believe what sets me apart from most in my industry is that I really want people to learn. I sell the products but I also want to make sure you are educated in protecting yourself. That is way I offer in person and virtual workshops to show you how to do simple moves to be helpful in sticky situations. Protecting yourself isn’t hard and learning how should not be a chore.

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 to first thank my mom, Evelyn, who had the forethought to put me and my siblings into the martial art Taekwondo. She kickstarted that passion! Secondly, my friends, my cheerleaders! They always fill my head with ideas and never let me get down on myself. Last but not least, my husband and little girl. They continue to be the motivation I need to keep being at the top of my game.

Website: www.shaefensellc.com

Instagram: https://tr.ee/uNxzu9-PSd

Facebook: https://tr.ee/6DjvvVlmrk

Other: Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shaefense?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Email: shaefensellccustomerservice@gmail.com

Image Credits
Brandy Williamson, Aesthetic Images

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