We were lucky to catch up with De’Andra Colbert recently and have shared our conversation below.
De’Andra, appreciate you joining us today. What was it like going from idea to execution? Can you share some of the backstory and some of the major steps or milestones?
Starting Your Kreative Junkie, LLC was an exciting journey that unfolded over time. It all began with a spark of inspiration—a realization that I could combine my passion for creativity with a desire to help others express themselves. One evening, while brainstorming ways to channel my creative energy, I envisioned a platform where people could explore various forms of artistic expression, from crafting to Tshirt design. The idea was to only focus on doing T-shirts. The next day, I prayed and I dove into research. I explored existing businesses in the creative space, identifying gaps I could fill. I talked to potential customers to understand their needs and interests, refining my concept based on their feedback. With the business structure in place, I focused on branding. I crafted a mission statement, designed a logo, and developed a cohesive visual identity that would resonate with my target audience. Building a user-friendly website became my next priority. I researched platforms, chose one that fit my needs, and began designing the site. This was a time-consuming process that involved creating content, selecting images, and ensuring an intuitive user experience. After months of preparation, I decided to officially launch on my birthday. I invited friends and family to test the website and provide feedback. Their support was invaluable, helping me iron out any issues. The first few months after launching were a whirlwind. I received positive feedback but also faced challenges, such as figuring out pricing and adjusting to customer preferences. I stayed adaptable, regularly collecting feedback to refine my offerings. As the year progressed, I expanded my talent introduced new creative tools. Each step was a learning opportunity, helping me grow not only as a business owner but also as a creative. Looking back, the journey from idea to execution was filled with excitement and challenges. The process taught me the importance of community, resilience, and the joy of nurturing creativity in others. Your Kreative Junkie, LLC was not just a business—it became a vibrant community where creativity thrived.
De’Andra, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I’m a passionate advocate for creativity and self-expression. My journey began in a rather unremarkable way—like many, I found myself stuck in a conventional job that didn’t ignite my passion. However, I always had a love for storytelling, art, and connecting with others. The turning point came when I realized how much joy creating brought into my life, and I wanted to share that with the world. I founded my business as a creative platform aimed at helping individuals and businesses with having a variety of different apparel, personalized gifts. I offer a variety of services, including: Custom apparel, personalized gifts, business cards, flyers, document printing and etc. Ultimately, my goal is to inspire and empower individuals to embrace their creativity without fear. If you’re ready to embark on that journey, I’m here to help you every step of the way!
Can you talk to us about how your side-hustle turned into something more.
It all began as a passion project. I started designing custom apparel for friends and family, crafting unique pieces for special occasions. The positive feedback I received ignited my creativity and made me realize that there was a market for personalized designs. I launched a small online store to showcase my creations. I leveraged social media to reach a wider audience, sharing my designs and the stories behind them. The initial sales were modest, but they encouraged me to keep going. The turning point came when I received my first large order from my church family, The Hub Southwest. This not only boosted my confidence but also taught me valuable lessons about production and customer service. As demand grew, I expanded my offerings to include hoodies, hats, and accessories. This diversification attracted a broader customer base and helped me stay relevant in the market. With growing orders, I reinvested profits into better equipment and materials. I also hired part-time help to manage production, allowing me to focus on design and marketing. I am not full-time yet. Taking the leap to go full-time is both thrilling and terrifying. I set goals for myself, such as increasing online sales and exploring wholesale opportunities, which further fueled growth. I am just waiting for God to give me the go as to when I should take that next step. Now, I’m focusing on sustainability in my materials and expanding my reach through online platforms. I’m excited about what’s next, including potential collaborations and new product lines.
What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?
Platforms like Instagram and Facebook have been fantastic for showcasing designs and engaging with potential customers. Regular posts, stories, and targeted ads can drive significant traffic. Happy customers sharing their experiences with friends and family has proven invaluable. Offering referral discounts can encourage this even more.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.yourkreativejunkie.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/yourkreativejunkie
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourcreativejunkiie