Meet Shakia Evans | Small Business Owner

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

Hi Shakia, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Funny enough, the thought was never to start my own business. Prior to creating Black Collar Clothing Brand, I was and currently work as a hairstylist. My work as a stylist begin after a break up. I was halfway through a graduate program when I split with my ex and I needed extra money to cover the bills. I’ve had the skillset since childhood, so I started promoting myself as a stylist. Soon enough I built a substantial clientele throughout greater Houston. The flexibility and income was perfect. It allowed me to be self sufficient while I completed school. Once I realized that I could sustain doing it, I stuck with it. Black Collar Clothing Brand was born out of that realization. Recognizing that as long as I worked hard, stretched myself mentally and physically and truly believed, I could do anything.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
More than a business owner, I see myself as an artist. I have always found satisfaction in creating. The mere desire to create is how I got to where I am today. Working as a stylist has been one of the most fulfilling things for me as everyday is an opportunity to create and no with Black Collar Clothing Brand, I have found a new way of channeling that creativity. Moving beyond the person as my canvas, and broadening my reach with timeless clothing pieces.

It hasn’t been easy existing and remaining in this entrepreneurial space. There’s no security here. No paid time off, no sick leave, no one to tell you when to go or when to stop. The entire operation rests on your back, and if you fall, it does too. The one thing I’ve had to be to get here is a self starter. Being disciplined enough to get up and get things done without prompting. Additionally, I’ve had to be extremely strategic, organized and resourceful. When you’re a one man rockband, everything falls on you; the advertising and promotion, acquiring capital funds, planning and organizing events, the list goes on. It’s all you.

What I have learned is the importance of taking breaks. Being an entrepreneur is demanding. It’s easy to never turn off. However, you must allow yourself time and space to breathe and regroup. Keep yourself mentally and spiritually balanced. Personally, I find this balance in nature. I watch trees reach for the sun, squirrels dig up nuts they buried last fall, and bees suck the nectar from flowering plants. Experiencing this phenomena reminds me of the simplicity of it all, we are all just following the blueprint we’ve been given to survive. In my moments with nature, I turn off momentarily. After I finish spending time there, I leave motivated to keep moving. Just like nature does.

What the world should know about Black Collar Clothing Brand is that it is here to motivate and encourage you to keep moving toward your goals. Bearing in mind that it’s not about speed, but direction. You can take as much time as you need, as many breaks as you need, but the message we want to share is that you never stop moving. A man living without purpose is an unhappy man, so we encourage everyone to find their purpose and not quit working until they are walking in it.

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?
I love the Beltline. It’s the perfect blend of nature and city. There’s lots of sun but also a plethora of small shops and restaurants to frequent while you’re out. Pirate’s Boil for seafood is always a must when I’m the tour guide. Great food and drink options. For a piece of history, I love the MLK Jr National Historical Park, and for great shopping I’d def recommend Ponce City Market. One of the best places to catch live music is Kat’s Cafe in the midtown district. Thursday’s are open mic nights and Saturday’s are for featured artists. Sunday’s at Apache Cafe are great for spoken word. And if there’s a concert in town, it is likely worth seeing!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
One of the most motivating works I’ve encountered is The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. This book played a pivotal role in solidifying my faith in my ability to succeed. I don’t want to ruin it by giving too much for those who haven’t read it. But if you ever find yourself doubting yourself, The Alchemist is a great way to restore your faith.

As far as people are concerned, my Mom and Grandmother have played huge roles in my journey. They have always been very supportive and encouraging. Much of my motivation to succeed comes from my desire to provide for those who have meant so much to me. Without them, there is no me. Literally and figuratively.

Website: blackcollarclothingbrand.com

Instagram: @blackcollarclothingbrand

Facebook: Black collar clothing brand

Image Credits
Aaron Dollar Anthony Floyd Akim Alston