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

Hi Nakeia, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Starting Bella Donna Dancewear has been quite the journey! After moving to Atlanta, I decided that I wanted to further my dance career by trying out for various dance teams in the Atlanta area! While going through my many different audition processes, I noticed one thing, everyone’s audition wear looked the same. Same style, same colors, same designs. I wanted to STAND OUT. So in 2015, I decided to audition for the Atlanta Falcons Cheerleaders and I was going to be noticed by showing up in the sparkliest audition wear that they had ever seen! That year, I made it to their finals and from there, the “monster was born” I was determined to make everyone feel the way I felt during that audition! Bold, confident, and beautiful! That following year, I landed on Atlanta’s Major League lacrosse team, the Atlanta Blaze, where I danced with them for two years and served as captain in my second year.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I began my career as a fashion designer and dancer at the tender age of seven! I know what you’re thinking, really, 7? Yes! I stood before my second-grade class, holding my first outfit made from two pillowcases and fabric paint, and told them that I was going to be a fashion designer. I attended South Carolina State University where I obtained a BS in Business Administration. While there, I took Fashion Merchandising and Textiles classes. I really wanted to have a full understanding of what it meant to run my own business in the clothing and design world!

Growing from my education and embracing my passion for fashion and dance, I started Bella Donna Dancewear, LLC. A dancewear line unlike any other where I create couture style dancewear for all dancers! It hasn’t been easy but the road less traveled is usually the most rewarding one. As a boutique custom dancewear designer, I have major competition with what I refer to as “big box” companies. They can mass produce dancewear at a high rate and a competitive price point. What sets me apart is the fact that I look to not only make my ladies and gentlemen, SPARKLE, I make it my personal goal to build relationships with my clients! I want to fully understand their story, so that I can create something totally unique, just for them!

Along the way, I have learned that consistency is key! It may sound cliche, however, I can boldly say that by continuing to press forward with the mindset of providing one-of-a-kind dancewear has afforded me some invaluable opportunities and for that, I am forever grateful. Never give up! For all of the no’s you may receive, your yes, is waiting around the corner!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I.LOVE.NATURE….but only when it’s warm outside! Lol I love being in lush green grass, high rise outdoor spaces, and good energy! For my out-of-town friends, I would take them to Piedmont Park to take in the beautiful sights of the city and get in a morning jog! Then we can head over to Ponce City Market! There we can enjoy amazing food and have lots of fun on their rooftop! I feel like a big kid up there and there’s nothing wrong with adding a little fun to your life! Being in the city allows you to really take in the true essence of Atlanta! Great people, an awesome atmosphere, and a chance to participate in activities that you may not have available to you, anywhere else!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Growing up, I was always taught that it takes a village to raise a child. My success is due to my family and friends. As a little girl, I always dreamed of seeing my name is lights, well not so much my name, but my designs. Fashion is a part of me, it’s in my soul. Having a dream that big requires a full-sized team of understanding, passionate, honest people. I can honestly say that I have been blessed with the best there is out there! 🙂 So, I want to say thank you for supporting this tiny girl with gigantic dreams!

Website: https://belladonnadancewear.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/belladonnadancewear/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Bella-Donna-Dancewear/100060829936448/

Image Credits
Jessica G. Photography

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