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

Hi Law, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?

I have always been inspired by creatives and fashion and after serving in the Marine Corps I gained more of a global perspective. I have drawn on those experiences and once my tour was over I began to plant the seeds for the brand.

I look at Albert Ray Collection as a creative outlet to message empowerment through the art that is fashion. I believe fashion is a canvas as the curator I bring “my art” to life and our patrons add their own personal style to that canvas.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.

Though I have the brand as a creative, I have served as a healthcare administrator and college professor, so balancing the brand/business hasn’t always been easy but I use creating as an outlet. As we continue on our journey I am reminded to never quit, that mindset has flourished since I survived Marine Corps bootcamp. I strive to push forward in all I do through the good and bad times…I’m reminded that I’m going to be ok and that I will persevere.

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 consider myself bicoastal…I spend a lot of time in San Diego and Chicago. In San Diego, I would definitely bring people to the Gaslamp Quarter and visit Myst and Cesar’s Cigar Lounge. As a foodie, I would take them to Louisiana Purchase and Carnita’s Snack Shack. Also, anywhere Dj Kewl Brez (@djkewlbrez) is DJing is the place to be.

In Chicago, the Persona Lounge, Bureau Bar, and 16th Street Bar are go to spots for nightlife. Friistyle, Ja Grill, Mikkey’s Retro Grill are a go to for foodies. Anywhere Jay Illa (@jayilla) is spinning is somewhere you should be.

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 wouldn’t be here without the continued support of my family. I also look at the brand as an opportunity to have my sons involved in the brand from a creative and business perspective, to show them the path to entrepreneurship. Being able to pass the torch keeps me going.

Website: www.thealbertraycollection.com

Instagram: @shopalbertray

Twitter: @iamalbertray

Image Credits
Desi Willis and Jaylen Willis

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