Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexandria Norman.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Alexandria. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I grew up always trying to find where I fit in. I was having problems in high school and found myself downtown exploring the fashion district most days instead of going to school. I eventually decided to intern at two showrooms downtown. After interning I realized I loved fashion but this wasn’t the right fit. I applied to FIDM to try and figure out in-depth where to go in the industry. I ended up meeting a guy who helped me figure out that I have an eye and I have to do something with my ideas. I assured him with his clients, designing etc.
While in my first year of school, I got pregnant. I was only 19 and all pressure was now applied. I started small. Designing editorial pieces and got interest in wholesale orders. Because the funds were not there I took out a loan to cover production. I then proceeded to start my Ecom online store through my website and continuing in wholesale. While my career was focused I was still dealing with a lot of craziness at home. My sons father had got sentenced to 18 years in prison. I took time to regroup my company, work on branding and the foundation. Now I am back in wholesale, and doing Ecom!
I also run a creative space that I sublease units to different creatives. This space is for all types of creatives to cross network. I started out with one unit doing production and now am blessed to be subleasing the unit.
I have a purpose more than just designing. I want to inspire and help creatives be great, pursue dreams and also be able to have a business mentality.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Far from smooth. I deal with struggles still today that take up focus and energy that could go into my brand. You will constantly hit road blocks in both work and personally, that will throw you off your game and you will have to rebalance yourself.
You will deal with business struggles, questioning yourself, financial issues. But these struggles will be lessons that turn into blessings.
Along with negative struggles, I also have positive struggles I have gone through like my biggest accomplishment, my son. I was a teenage mom and had to start from the ground up. Having my son and having to raise him on my own has been far from easy but I’m a strong black woman at the end of the day thanks to him and ALL my struggles.
No matter what’s your dealing with you have to reprogram and regroup all the time. Stay on top of yourself stay ahead.
Please tell us about Bellen Brand.
I am a designer, CEO, and Entrepreneur. I own and design for my brand – Bellen Brand. We are a Women’s Contemporary clothing line based out of LA. I found on Everyday Athleisure Basics that make getting dressed a little easier. Effortless, Easy, and On the Go. Like I said I’m a single mom so I have to design pieces that I need. I need to get up and go but still look cute and like I tried.
I am proud of all the growth we have done. We are a small company with only 3 employees but we carry ourselves with quality and professionalism while keeping the fashion alive. I am also really proud of my branding. I work hard and constantly studying how to market Bellen. I Am involved in every aspect. I still run the Bellen IG.
Bellen is in a lane of its own. Simple styles, with quality fabric. A lifestyle brand that is growing into not only Women’s but Men’s, Kids and soon Interior!
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
My favorite memory is simple, hanging out with family. When you grow up, life moves fast and you don’t have as much time or in the same location. Family get-togethers, riding bikes in the neighborhood, simple stuff.
Contact Info:
- Address: 201 S. Santa Fe Ave LA Ca 90012
- Website: BELLENBRAND.COM
- Email: customercare@bellenbrand.com
- Instagram: Bellenbrand
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