Today we’d like to introduce you to Brandon Ja
Hi Brandon, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
During the summer of COVID, I found myself in a routine that felt both dull and overwhelming—eating, working out, watching youtube videos, the news and sleeping. As I spent so much time at home, my friends encouraged me to launch my own sunglasses line, a passion of mine since accessories have always been a staple in my outfits. I wasn’t sure of how to even start a business, what I would even name it or how I was going to even afford it.
However, amidst this creative exploration, I struggled with feelings of depression and disconnection from myself. The heightened awareness of social injustices, particularly during the Black Lives Matter movement, weighed heavily on my heart. Each day, I was confronted with heartbreaking news about lives lost, and I felt paralyzed—wanting to make a difference but unsure how, all while fearing for my own health.
One particularly difficult day, I broke down in tears. A friend who was with me saw my distress and reassured me, saying, “Everything will be okay; all you need to do is breathe.” Those words struck a chord, and I started to repeat to myself, “Breathe, Brandon, breathe. Everything will be okay.”
That simple act of self-soothing helped me regain some clarity. I realized how much power there is in speaking kindly to ourselves and taking a moment to breathe. From that day forward, the idea for my brand crystallized: I wanted to create a line of sunglasses that not only reflected my style but also embodied the message of mindfulness and self-care.
And so, “Breathe by Brandon” was born—an invitation for others to take a moment for themselves and remember to breathe amidst life’s chaos.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. After launching “Breathe by Brandon,” I quickly faced several challenges. Costs started to add up—supplies, taxes, and the logistics of running a business were more complex than I anticipated. I didn’t have a dedicated space for inventory, so I had to store everything in my parents’ garage, which added its own set of complications.
There were also many ups and downs in terms of sales. Some months were great, but there were stretches where I didn’t make any sales at all, which was discouraging. Those moments tested my resolve and forced me to rethink my strategies. I learned a lot through these struggles, from the importance of budgeting to being adaptable and finding creative solutions. Each challenge has ultimately shaped my journey and strengthened my commitment to the brand.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
I’m Brandon Ja, the owner and the creative behind every aspect of Breathe by Brandon. I handle everything, from photography, graphic design, and creative direction, to accounting, marketing, website design, and content creation. Running my business independently has been both a challenge and a joy, allowing me to fully express my creativity in a way that connects with my personal passions.
Breathe by Brandon is a sunglasses line that’s more than just about accessories—it’s about mindfulness and self-care. I launched the brand during the summer of COVID after struggling with feelings of disconnection and depression. A friend’s advice to “just breathe” became my mantra and inspired me to create a brand that not only offers high-quality, stylish sunglasses but also serves as a reminder to pause and take care of oneself amidst life’s challenges.
What sets us apart is the message behind the brand. Our sunglasses are designed to make a statement, both in terms of style and in promoting mental wellness. I’m most proud of the impact Breathe by Brandon has on people, reminding them to prioritize their well-being while expressing their personal style.
For readers, I want you to know that Breathe by Brandon is more than just a product—it’s a brand with purpose. Every pair of sunglasses reflects my commitment to quality, creativity, and self-care, helping you look and feel good in all aspects of life.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
There are several ways people can work with me and support Breathe by Brandon. You can connect with us on all social platforms at @Breathebyb, visit our website at www.brandonja.com, or send an email to [email protected]. I’m always open to collaborations, whether it’s through content creation, brand partnerships, or other creative projects. I love working with like-minded individuals and brands who share a passion for mindfulness, self-care, and, of course, style!
Supporting the brand can also be as simple as following us on social media, sharing our message, or purchasing a pair of our sunglasses. Every bit of support helps us grow and continue to spread our message of resilience and mindfulness.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.brandonja.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/BreatheByB
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/breathebybrandon/
- Twitter: https://x.com/breathebyb
Image Credits
Model @Chyna.rjb
Photographer @lifeis_golden
