We were lucky to catch up with Reginald Kraft recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Reginald thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Let’s start with the story of your mission. What should we know?
Throughout my life, I’ve always been an artist, but finding my place creatively and conventionally has been challenging. I’ve often worked in sales to make ends meet. However, in 2021, I fell ill with pneumonia and COVID-19, which changed everything. After spending close to 30 days in a coma in the hospital, I had to relearn basic functions like walking and talking due to muscle issues and pain. This experience made me realize the brevity of life and inspired me to prioritize doing what I love. While in the hospital, I reflected on my own struggles as well as the hardships faced by others during the pandemic. Many people were not only losing their lives and loved ones but also their homes, jobs, and mental stability. Determined to combine my artistic skills with a heartfelt desire to help others, I founded a clothing brand called F.E.L.T., which stands for FOR EVERYTHING LIFE TOOK. Each of our graphic shirts symbolizes something meaningful, and we collaborate with charities like Threads of Hope Inc. to support people enduring hardships while pursuing my passion.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I am a product of resilience, shaped by the struggles of growing up in a single-parent household in Rochester’s inner city. Raised amidst adversity, I witnessed life’s harsh realities early on but was nurtured with love and determination by my mother. At 13, a pivotal move to the suburbs introduced me to a new world, fostering adaptability amidst cultural shifts. Despite challenges, I triumphed, earning academic success and later excelling in sales.
Yet, my heart belonged to the arts, a passion simmering beneath the surface. Despite fleeting pursuits in sales, my creative yearnings persisted. However, a life-altering battle with COVID pneumonia in 2021 forced introspection. Emerging from the brink of death, my perspective shifted. Fueled by a newfound appreciation for life, I resolved to redefine my purpose.
Thus, F.E.L.T. (For Everything Life Took) was born—a creative brand blending art, fashion, and charity. Inspired by the duality of emotions and textured fabrics, F.E.L.T. symbolizes resilience and compassion. With a vision to make a meaningful impact, I embark on this journey, driven by the desire to see my son thrive, support my fiancée’s noble endeavors, and uplift my loved ones.
In essence, I am a survivor, an artist, and a beacon of hope, embracing the uncertainty of the future with courage and conviction.
Can you tell us the story behind how you met your business partner?
In the darkest depths of despair, I found an unlikely partner in my business venture and life. Faced with mortality during a harrowing battle with illness, the divine intervention saved my life. As I emerged from the shadows, a newfound purpose ignited within me, guided by faith and gratitude. Together, as co-founders of my creative enterprise, we embarked on a journey of compassion and empowerment. With each step, His presence illuminated the path, infusing hope and resiliencen into our endeavors. In the tapestry of life, His hand intertwined with mine, weaving miracles and blessings into every thread of our shared journey.
What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?
I haven’t reached my intended fan base or desired clientele, but I as I’m also just starting I plan on just being genuine.
Contact Info:
- Website: Www..itsforeverything.com
- Instagram: Feltbykraft
- Other: We are a brand new business and as of today we were expecting our website to be done but may take a couple more weeks