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

Hi Tony, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
By definition “nostalgia” s a wishful desire to return in thought or in fact to former time in ones life , ones homeland or ones family and friends : a sentimental yearning for happiness of former place and time. I personally find gratitude in uncomfortable moments and being able to find peace in the storms . wanting to help the world get back to there prime of confidence , find that place of balance within . A smile in the mist of pain Nostalja was born.

Nostalja was created in 2015 a brand that promotes well being skincare and way of life . I wanted to create something that made people feel good . Nostalja has a passport way longer than I . once asked whats your ending goal each day . its not money coins will or fame , ” its giving people heaven on earth, a peace of mind , good hair and skin, encourage confidence who and what you are that’s what Nostalja represents to me and goal. My start to entrepreneurship came with the Nostalja universal butter is a one stop shop that doesn’t require much application , can be used by any ethnicity or age and used from head to toe

What should our readers know about your business?
While coming up with this perfect blend I stay true to the natural and organic elements nature will provide everything we need . A phone call from a customer in Nigeria and when my grandmother ordered her second jar I knew I had something going . The most blissful feelings is when people trust something I’ve created on there kids . Called and emails I get from customers humbled me. Nostalja has cleared eczema breakouts better than steroid creams prescribed by doctors. Makes me feel good that I’ve helped someone . Peace and confidence are two things i strive for.

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?
Im a big foodie I enjoy going into the eateries so all my friends know we eating ! And we Eating Black Owned ! Monday I would ride over to Ocean view little area in Norfolk VA and eat at “My Mama’s Kitchen” they have a array of classic southern comfort foods . Tuesdays are for Mango mangeaux downtown Hampton area . A sophisticated restaurant offering contemporary take on classic Creole dishes. Wednesday Roger Browns Restaurant which is located downtown Portsmouth Casual sports bar serving Southern leaning comfort foods . great place to watch the games and listen to live music on the weekends . Thursday nights Keland’s Seafood bar and grill located uptown Newport News live music and crab boils some of the best seafood in Newport News . Fridays we locate the Southern Hospitality food Truck variety of foods also has Vegan options . Saturday Brunch in Hampton best French toast known to man hands down is Pink Fish Bistro on a Saturday .

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Tremaine Wills IG @tremainewills

Website: mynostalja.com

Instagram: @mynostalja_

Facebook: Tony mccraven

Image Credits
Mike Nims

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