Today we’d like to introduce you to Allister and Denise Hill.
Allister and Denise, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
IA Apparel was inspired by our son. Several years ago, we realized that he had low self-esteem. He was a handsome, smart and talented young man, who was allowing the negativity of his peers to influence how he perceived himself. My husband and I decided to create an apparel brand with positive affirmations for him to wear to school, to remind him of his greatness. We started with kids clothing and expanded into women’s and eventually men’s apparel, all with positive affirmations. From the beginning, our mission was to inspire others through apparel. We have grown from being home-based with an online store to now opening a Retail Kiosk in the Westfield Topanga Mall in Canoga Park, CA. To help build brand awareness, we also attend several vendor events locally and throughout the U.S.
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?
The road has not been smooth. There were times when we wanted to give up. We are building the brand while continuing to work full-time at other jobs. We’ve done vendor shows and didn’t sell one item. Our online sales have almost been non-existent. But every time we’ve thought about giving up, we would receive confirmation that we were on the right path and this has made us determine to keep going.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Inspirational Affirmation Apparel (IA Apparel) – what should we know?
IA Apparel is a clothing brand which specializes in inspirational apparel. We sell directly to the consumer as well as providing bulk orders for other businesses. We have been in business for five years and are proud of the leap of faith we recently took, in opening a retail kiosk. Our company is African American owned and family operated. Our mission which is to inspire through positive messaging, sets us apart from other companies.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
We believe that our faith, determination, persistence and love for each other are the qualities that have determined our success.
Contact Info:
- Location: Westfield Topanga Mall (across from Finish Line) 6600 Topanga Canyon Blvd, Canoga Park, CA 91303
- Website: www.ia-apparel.com
- Phone: 949.667.3246
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: ia_apparel
- Facebook: Inspirational Affirmation Apparel
- Twitter: ia_apparella
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/inspirational-affirmation-apparel-los-angeles
Image Credit:
Cheeno Grey
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