Today we’d like to introduce you to Houstina Summers.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I believe that at the moment of conception, the 1st chapter of our stories begins. We all have gifts preparing us to impact the world, even if that impact is small. I realized my gift at the age of five when the desire to become a princess was most important. My mother, a native of Belize, came to the US in 1972. Her desire was to become a model.
While on the quest to find herself in magazines, she started a custom dress service in her living room. Unbeknownst to her, her shop was also my castle. I’d gather scraps of taffeta and satin, stuffing the ends of them in my church stockings until I’d created a full petticoat. I’d twirl while ordering my little brother around. I was the most beautiful girl in the world, yet couldn’t be contained. I wanted to share with my dolls, so my mom taught me how to cut patterns and soon I had garments for my royal court.
In primary school, I decided to give up Designing and become a painter. My Grand Father was a well known Caribbean Artist, and I wanted to be just like him. However, during career day, when asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, I was crushed when my 2nd-grade teacher shouted, “Artist Starve”. Needless to say, I was always hungry, so starving was not on my agenda. I had lost myself for good and lived in creative limbo until after I graduated collage in 2005.
While driving one day, a story flashed as a vision before my eyes. I felt a rush of thrill and fear. When the scene ended, I was inches from rear-ending the car in front of me. Days later, an invisible voice said, “Remember that story? Write it down.” This led to the production of my first novel, Angelica’s Revenge, a story about forbidden love.
Though the experience was great, I still felt a void. When I was invited to attend my first fashion show, it was like the heavens opened up and an Angel handed me down a pair of golden scissors. I’ve been designing ever since and will continue to grow my brand, Tina Summers LA.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
In being creative, my biggest struggles have been my own self. It is so easy to create for myself and hoard my talents. This has caused so many setbacks and closed doors. It was not until I started creating for others, did I experience true success in my business.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Tina Summers Label – what should we know?
My business specializes in designing women’s-wear. The namesake label is in its 5th year and has been committed to celebrating the unique femininity of its customers since the company’s inception. We specialize in intricately innovative custom fashion through recycling and exploring techniques that are wearable, yet push the boundaries of functionality. We are known for customizing specialty dresses for that special occasions like prom, weddings, and birthdays.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My supporter, mentor, cheerleader and lover, Micheal Wellington. Since day one, he has pushed me and invested so much into my dreams. He encourages me during the down times, he invests financially into my business and is my right hand.
Contact Info:
- Address: 904 S Wall LA, CA 90015
- Website: https://www.tinasummerscustom.com/
- Phone: 8183364694
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tinasummerslabel/?hl=en
Image Credit:
Photographers: Brittnay Dixon and Shamayim
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