Today we’d like to introduce you to David Williams.
Hi David, 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?
The initial goal was simple: Make fly clothes for my friends to rock. I started out heat-pressing black and white tees in my dad’s living room with different designs I created on my phone. My dad helped set me up in the beginning; first set of t-shirts, vinyls for the heat press, etc. The shift was really just me jumping out on faith. I’d always envisioned having my own clothing line. So the biggest thing was just taking the confidence I had and making sure I was producing the very thing I would wear.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Things were very off and on in the beginning. Being a full-time student-athlete trying to balance a brand led to early inconsistency. Many people knew about the brand and wanted to support but I didn’t always have merch on-hand to keep wide-spread engagement.
We’ve been impressed with POOK ROYAL, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
“POOK” Meaning Self Made Greatness. A name given to me by Aunties at Birth way back in 97… promoting positivity and bringing awareness that you are what this world needs. “ROYAL” having the status of a king or queen due to the fact you are born into it. We specialize in athleisure/ streetwear. We are known for the quality of our merchandise and how simple yet fly one can look while wearing it. Being intentional about colorways, stitching, fabrics, even the process in which the cotton was milled. Another subsidiary brand we are known for is Faithful n’ Black. It features our popular Faithful Black Men and Faithful Black Women catalogue. What sets us apart is the energy behind the brand. I want people to know that whatever it is they want in this world, they can make it happen. Thoughts are powerful. Intention and action is guaranteed success. Continue to be the best at what you do, all the while staying true to self.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I actually don’t have a mentor. But what has worked for me is surrounding myself with people who aren’t afraid to let me know when it’s time to go back to the drawing boards. Having a cutthroat mom whose only desire is to see my brand thrive also helps. Networking came naturally with friends who flourish in different arenas. The potential for collaborations are endless and we all really just want to see each other make it.
Contact Info:
- Website: Pookroyal.com
- Instagram: PookroyalClo & Faithfulnblack
- Twitter: Pookroyal & Faithfulnblack
Image Credits
Corrina (@corrinaelexus) Kris (@_kristopher.h) David (@shooterdav)
