We were lucky to catch up with Dee Pippen recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Dee thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Alright, so you had your idea and then what happened? Can you walk us through the story of how you went from just an idea to executing on the idea?

In 2018 I decided I wanted to start creating Waistbeads because I love what they stood for and the meaning. They originate from a africa. I purchased a set from a local business but it took 2 months to receive them. So I found the need to be someone who would start making sure if I started making them that the turn around wouldn’t be so long.

After that I actually became depressed really bad and ended up going out of town with my family and my cousin wanted a Waistbead and I made her one. Then I attended a spiritual womens retreat and one of the ladies was teaching beading. I created my first beaded bracelet and to me that was my second confirmation to start my business. I fought through my depression and went from there.

Wal mart and hobby lobby became my best friends for beading. Thank God for small beginnings because baby if I knew what I knew now lol.
My first clients were women at my job and I actually gave away a lot of items for free just to see how people would like them. Folks liked them and started buying from me over and over . It became so big so fast I became overwhelmed. That’s a good thing lol.

The more money I made the better product I produced and the more knowledge I gained the Better I was able to serve .

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

My name is Dee Pippen. I started as a fashion show director and stylist. I was a model coach for a lot of models that’s relevant to this day. I always had a love for fashion and design. My business is D OWNHER legalized for Fashion , model and design. Since 2014. I’m am very head strong. I know what organization is and how I want things done. I don’t half step and my lack of compromise assures perfect results. I make mistakes and I learn from them. I feel when you are in business you should be open to change, good and back feed back. Be ok when you’re wrong and fix it . Great customer service and also strong discernment. Teach as you learn and be a giver . I create Nameplate necklaces , custom jewelry , Waistbeads , custom photo charms by hand , necklaces , anklets , bracelets you name it! I can do it! Jewelry is my life. I never knew I’ll be a jewelry designer . I always loved fashion .

My problem solvers include ; Do not be afraid to get with me on your crazy ideas made out of jewelry . Wearing Waistbeads no matter your size and not being charged extra for it and waiting weeks to receive them. Being able to have unique pieces that no one else has. I’m an open communication business. What sets me apart is I don’t just sell custom jewelry I HANDMAKE MINE AS WELL. I’m unique and I cater to all not just women.

I’m proud because I don’t quit . I didn’t allow the nay sayers, my Pulmonary embolism , my finances even being homelessness stop me. I grinded out of hotels and on the street selling my items to survive. I am resilient! All while keeping a positive attitude. This year I’ve made items for 3 well known comedians! My business is A+ rated with the BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU.

I want the world to know that no matter what you go through in life keep God first . Write down your goals and accomplish them. Speak life over yourself and stay around people who pour into you! I will be a household jewelry line and people will know my name. Celebrities will be seeking out for my custom pieces . I’m actually going to be building more into my jewelry by adding more machinery to it so it’s definitely a one stop shop. I’m trying to cut out the middle man completely by being a JEWERLER FOR REAL! The next Johnny Dang! Lol

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

I tell anyone people relate to real! I also have been transparent about my life. I treat people right and I show my personally. I’m not afraid to risk it all to get what is needed to be successful. I’m always learning new ways to market. I attend vending events, I go live and I also support others too. I don’t just expect support I give support as well! I do give aways here and there too. I also make sure I treat each person no matter how big or small the order is as if they’ve spent $1,000!

Can you open up about how you funded your business?

I used my entire income tax check to start up my business in 2014 and I never looked back. You can’t be afraid to invest in you! Always bet on yourself you’ll never lose!

Contact Info:

• Website: WaistbeadMuva.com
• Instagram: Waistbead_muva
• Facebook: Dee the goat
• Linkedin: Dee Pippen
• Twitter: Downherllc
• Youtube: D1Headliner
• Other: Tiktok Deethewaistbead_jeweler

Image Credits
Photos of myself : Deshanna Monay Face photography celebrity mua Beats by Jay (Jay beats) Stylist Sakovia Finkley ( The brilliant closet)