Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Aaliyah Brown. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Aaliyah thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. One of the most important things small businesses can do, in our view, is to serve underserved communities that are ignored by giant corporations who often are just creating mass-market, one-size-fits-all solutions. Talk to us about how you serve an underserved community.

Arm Kandy is a handbag company but we are involved with our local community. Every quarter we donate food and toiletries to Indy Community Pantry. This year we hosted our first Thanksgiving volunteer dinner that fed the homeless downtown. We focus on business but our business allows us to bless others. It is a blessing to be a blessing.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Arm Kandy was established in 2015 as a side income. Once I noticed the success, it became a legitimate company. I have ordered wholesale from California for the past 7 years. Now we are transitioning into our newest products. I started Arm Kandy because I have a handbag fetish but I don’t believe in spending a savings for one. I was like why not create one? So I did. I provide great quality products at an affordable prices.

I’m proud of never giving up. The journey may be rough but there’s beauty in the struggle and on the other side. I’m most proud my company because we donate to those in need every quarter. We recently hosted our first Thanksgiving volunteer dinner for the homeless as well. I’m very proud that I assist others in starting their business and following their dreams. I want my future clients to know Arm Kandy is built on more than handbags. We make a difference that blesses others.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

I recently was able to travel again for Arm Kandy. I’m used to attending popup shops and vending events for more exposure. I traveled to Texas which is the farthest we have ever been. We expected our return of investment to be better but I didn’t let that get me down. I accepted the exposure and networking I was able to do. Half way home my vehicle caught fire on the highway. I lost majority of my business inventory and my car insurance wouldn’t cover it. I almost let that stop me from continuing Arm Kandy, but I didn’t. I learned to pivot to a more impactful business. I also came to the realization it was time to manufacture my own products.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

A lesson I had to unlearn and learn is my target audience. My target audience is not my friends and family. Yes, it’s amazing to have their support, but I didn’t create my business for them. Don’t expect their support, but be grateful for it. Strangers will support you as long as you are fixing a need.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.shoparmkandy.com
• Instagram: www.shoparmkandy.com/armkandyllc
• Facebook: www.shoparmkandy.com/armkandyllc

Image Credits
Colli Media