We were lucky to catch up with Al-Nisa Harris recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Al-Nisa, thanks for joining us today. Risking taking is a huge part of most people’s story but too often society overlooks those risks and only focuses on where you are today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – it could be a big risk or a small one – but walk us through the backstory.
The first big risk I ever took was moving from my hometown Newark New Jersey , To Atlanta without my family and close friends not knowing how things will turn out for me. It was bit challenging at first . But through out the years Ive been here things gotten easier for me some family/ friends moved out here . I became more stabled with the job I have. I even became comfortable, but not too comfortable I wanted more for myself . That’s when I took my second big risk starting my business “ ALANOFE “ my business is 2 years old now and still going strong .. This was a huge risk for me not knowing if the people will like my work ,my design , my ideas , etc . I knew this risk will cause some ups and downs some good days some bad but Alanofe was something I was willing to take a risk on . Not knowing if people will support me stayed on my mind but the family I have always made that so easy for me . I always tell myself if you don’t take the risk you’ll never know where you’ll end up ! TAKE THAT RISK !
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I’m Al-nisa Harris owner of Alanofe clothing brand , I’m very driven , Confident, and reserved . That’s exactly how i will describe my brand I’m still building . I got into the clothing business because I love fashion so I decided to make my own . As of right now I make street wear sweatsuits , Tshirts , hats , socks , and more .
What sets me apart from others to me is my color scheme I always get compliments on the colors I put together . Also the material I use everyone doesn’t have good material so I try to make sure they have that with my brand . most of my clothes are hand made so I have to make sure I pick the right material .
I’m most proud of me not giving up it’s not as easy as it seems being an entrepreneur . Seeing people wearing my clothes and actually liking them is the best feeling . Also getting support from people in different states .I want people to know I do appreciate there support and I have more ideas and different designs coming soon .
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
The lesson I had to unlearn was to stop making clothes that I like and to start making clothes that are for everyone. The reason I had to unlearn this is because I want my clothing to reach all age groups younger and older . I’m actually still unlearning this but it’s coming together .
Can you talk to us about how your funded your business?
The Initial capital I needed to start my business was the money. I had to work and save meaning I had to cut out any unnecessary spending . I had to go on a strict money diet . Which was challenging because I had to temporarily stop doing things I actually like doing. Shopping , eating out hanging with my friends etc .
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.Alanofe.com
- Instagram: _alanofe
- Facebook: Alnisa Harris