Today, we’d like to introduce you to Idalis Simmons.
Hi Idalis, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My story in the world of business has been nothing short of a roller coaster ride, beginning back in 2019. From a young age, I held a deep admiration for the role of a businesswoman and the prospect of managing multiple enterprises. My first venture into the business world took the form of a women’s boutique, where I proudly offered a range of products, including lashes, sunglasses, and an array of women’s accessories. But my business was about more than just retail – it was a platform for nurturing and uplifting women’s self-esteem and empowerment.
As we evolve and rebrand, Mocha Lux Apparel stands as a symbol of self-assuredness, determination, and resilience. Our clothing is a representation of your commitment to putting your dreams at the forefront, even when faced with skepticism. Our message resonates with those who recognize the value of pursuing their passions wholeheartedly and those wanting to endure wealth into their life’s, regardless of the doubts that might cloud their path.
And shortly, Mocha Lux Apparel came to life. Our brand offers a diverse range of clothing items, from cozy sweatshirts and stylish t-shirts to trendy beanies. Our journey continues as we expand our offerings to include phone cases and a myriad of other products. The heart of our brand lies in its powerful motto: “I want money not friends.” This slogan is not about choosing financial gain over relationships; it’s about prioritizing your ambitions, aspirations, and needs above the opinions of those who might not share your vision of success.
So, that’s my story – a journey of empowerment, self-discovery, and unwavering belief in the power of pursuing one’s dreams. Mocha Lux Apparel isn’t just a brand; it’s a movement that propels us to chase our goals relentlessly, embracing challenges as opportunities and wearing our aspirations with pride.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
One of the first challenges I faced was getting the technical stuff right. I mean managing an online retail platform, handling order processing, dealing with shipping logistics, and figuring out payment gateways. It felt like I was building the plane while it was already in the air! There were moments when I was staring at my computer screen, thinking, “Can I actually do this?” But you know what they say, challenges are just opportunities in disguise.
Along that, the path wasn’t always smooth. While my aspiration was to launch a clothing brand, my journey was laden with self-doubt, overthinking, and a lack of full belief in my capabilities. The voices of those around me who echoed these negative thoughts only boosted my apprehension. I found myself at a crossroads, questioning whether my dream was worth pursuing. But then, a pivotal moment arrived. I decided to silence those doubting voices and embrace the possibility that trying wouldn’t hurt – in fact, it might just lead to something remarkable.
Oh, and the self-doubt! That’s another hurdle I had to navigate. Trusting my instincts and believing in myself was tough, especially when the road ahead seems foggy. There were times when I wondered if I was in way over my head. But hey, every entrepreneur has those moments, right? It’s like a rite of passage.
However, with every obstacle I faced, I grew more determined. Over time, I developed a clearer vision for my business. I started connecting with mentors and seeking advice from people who had been through similar journeys. That support was like a breath of fresh air. It gave me the confidence to push forward and not give up.
And guess what? I’ve learned to embrace the uncertainty because it’s part of the journey. Today, I’m not just the girl who had an idea; I’m someone who’s building that idea into a successful brand. I’m more driven than ever before, and the excitement for what’s next is like a constant buzz in the background.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Mocha Lux Apparel is still in its early stages, but I’ve got a lot on my plate. Besides working full-time at the airport, I’m juggling school and running my business. It’s a lot, but it’s worth it.
My job at the airport is where I’m getting the funds to fuel my business dreams. I’m investing the income I earn there into Mocha Lux Apparel until the brand picks up enough steam to start generating its own revenue. It’s like a cycle – the airport job is supporting my business, and in turn, I’m pouring everything I have into making my business grow.
On top of that, I’m hitting the books at the community college. I’m taking classes that delve into the nitty-gritty of business operations. It’s all about understanding the ins and outs of getting a handle on the business world’s tricks and trades. It’s like putting extra tools in my toolkit, you know?
Sure, it’s a balancing act, and there are moments when I feel like I’m being pulled in a million directions. But there’s this drive in me that keeps me going. I’ve got my eyes set on the bigger picture. A point where my business flourishes to the point where I can transition away from my current job at the airport.
It’s a journey, that’s for sure. And I’ve learned that patience and hard work are the secret ingredients. So yeah, that’s where I’m at right now. Working, learning, and building Mocha Lux Apparel one step at a time.
What were you like growing up?
When I was younger I was described as kind-hearted and affectionate, qualities that my mother lovingly acknowledged. In those days, I nurtured dreams of becoming a lawyer. My relationship with my mother played an integral role in shaping my upbringing; it was marked by closeness and shared moments that fostered a deep bond between us. Being raised as an only child, I learned to value the significance of these connections.
As a young person, my mom would consider me to be sensitive to nature. Which meant sometimes this led me to approach life and those around me as a little bit shy. Looking back, my childhood was a blend of kindness, aspirations, and the nurturing relationships that surrounded me. These early experiences shaped the foundation of who I am today, reminding me of the significance of compassion, the pursuit of knowledge, and the strength found in determination. I’m so grateful for both my failures and my successes. Because both of these I have developed into the person I am, and I plan to continue my path of growth.
Pricing:
- $70 for Rhinestone Hoodies
- $75 for Vintage Rhinestone Hoodie
- $80 for Full Zip Up Hoodie
- $28 for Money Lover Beanies
- $13 for Cases
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/mochaluxc?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mochas.lux?mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@simplymocha3140
Image Credits
LaTanya Dorsey
