Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Dominique Davis. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Dominique, thanks for taking the time to share your stories 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
Embarking on my journey into the realm of luxury fashion has been a lifelong dream that has finally taken shape. From my high school days, where I would envision exquisite outfits for special occasions like homecomings and proms, my passion for fashion has been unwavering. The desire to infuse a fresh, distinctive energy into the existing luxury fashion landscape has been my driving force.
My creative journey began with sketches in 2019, amidst running my hair business, Nu’Nique Hair. While the hair business was a part of my life, my heart was always in fashion. During my free moments, I would immerse myself in designing and sketching, yearning to bring my imaginative creations to life. In 2021, after five years of dedicating myself to my existing business, I made the courageous decision to follow my passion for fashion.
The transition wasn’t easy. I initially collaborated with seamstresses I knew, but logistical challenges led me to explore outsourcing options. My first experience was with a talented seamstress from Ukraine. Despite her skills, the collaboration became difficult due to ongoing circumstances, particularly the war. This prompted me to search for high-quality manufacturers globally.
After months of meticulous research, sending out NDAs, and showcasing my designs, I found a manufacturing partner in China. However, the sample creation process proved to be more time-consuming and expensive than I had anticipated. Faced with mounting frustrations and depleting resources, I pivoted my approach.
I sought out a skilled seamstress based in Atlanta, Georgia, who could craft my initial samples. This localized approach streamlined the process significantly. I then shipped these samples to my chosen manufacturer, allowing for efficient duplication and production. This strategy not only saved time but also proved to be a more cost-effective solution.
With the production logistics in place, I delved into other essential aspects of my luxury fashion venture. Preparations for a photoshoot, crafting a compelling marketing strategy, designing impeccable packaging, developing my website, and addressing legal matters became integral parts of my journey.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My journey into entrepreneurship began at the young age of 18, driven by an innate desire to take control of my own destiny. Even as a child, I was fascinated by fashion, meticulously curating my style. Surrounded by friends who shared my passion, I found solace in the world of fashion, a realm where creativity knew no bounds. However, I often struggled to find unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that resonated with my individuality. It was this struggle that ignited my determination to craft my own distinctive designs, not just for myself, but for others who shared my quest for the extraordinary.
My unwavering discipline traces back to my early years, a defining moment arising from the challenges Hurricane Katrina posed, causing me to miss school. This setback became a catalyst for my commitment to excellence. I vowed to excel academically, setting the stage for a disciplined mindset that permeated every aspect of my life. This mindset, coupled with my keen creative vision, allowed me to predict trends before they even blossomed, giving me a unique edge in the fashion landscape.
What truly sets me apart is not just my ability to envision fashion before it unfolds, but my willingness to embrace risks. Throughout my journey, there were moments of immense struggle, where emotional overwhelm threatened to shroud my path. I faced days when it seemed like I was doing everything right, yet the results I longed for remained elusive. In those challenging moments, I discovered the power of patience and the importance of trusting my own process.
I am immensely proud of my resilience during these trials, refusing to succumb to despair. The tears shed in frustration transformed into pearls of wisdom, teaching me the invaluable lesson of perseverance. My journey is not just a testament to my passion for fashion, but also a celebration of my ability to endure, adapt, and emerge stronger, creating a fashion narrative that embodies both my creative spirit and unwavering determination.
Can you talk to us about how your funded your business?
My venture was funded through my night job and the discipline of my savings. By working at a rooftop bar in Atlanta, I managed to juggle funding my business while also covering my living expenses. This dedication meant sacrificing typical weekend outings and socializing, a choice that set me apart from the average 20-something girl.
Every hard-earned dollar I made was carefully saved and strategically invested into my business. Initially, this approach seemed secure, but as I progressed, I came to realize the limitations of relying solely on personal funds. Acknowledging the power of credit, once a daunting prospect, became a game-changer. I learned that debt, when managed wisely, could serve as a valuable tool in propelling my business forward.
Looking ahead, I’ve decided to leverage credit more effectively, understanding that it can be a strategic ally in the entrepreneurial journey. This shift in perspective marks a new chapter, where financial acumen meets ambition, empowering me to navigate the challenges of business ownership with confidence and foresight.
Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?
A few books I think any entrepreneur should read is Zero to One, What Your Customers Want But Can’t Tell You, and The Ultimate Guide on how to Build Credit for your business.
Contact Info:
- Website: domdavisofficial.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/domdavisofficial/?hl=en
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/domdavisonline
Image Credits
My Team Hairstylist @jess_thehairblesser Marketing Campaign @standardguy Photographer @