We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Edwin Exaus. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Edwin below.
Edwin , looking forward to hearing all of your stories 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 August 2020, amidst the challenges brought on by the pandemic, I embarked on a journey that would transform not only my personal comfort but also birth a brand aimed at revolutionizing men’s underwear. As a Brooklyn-based entrepreneur, I noticed a gap in the market for quality, comfortable men’s underwear tailored to the diverse needs of modern individuals. This realization sparked the inception of Boy Box.
The Genesis:
Like many, the pandemic forced me to reevaluate my lifestyle. Spending more time at home, I became acutely aware of the discomfort caused by ill-fitting underwear. As my body underwent physical changes – whether due to changes in activity level, stress, or simply the passage of time – my existing underwear failed to keep up. Frustrated with discomfort and lack of suitable options in the market, I saw an opportunity to fill this void.
The Vision:
Driven by the vision to create underwear that marries comfort with style, I embarked on a two-year journey of meticulous research, development, and testing. Every aspect, from fabric selection to design details, was scrutinized to ensure unparalleled comfort, durability, and style. Boy Box was born out of the desire to provide men with an underwear experience that celebrates individuality and prioritizes comfort without compromising on quality.
The Journey:
Navigating the complexities of product development amidst a global pandemic presented its own set of challenges. From sourcing sustainable materials to collaborating with local artisans and manufacturers, every step required patience, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the vision.
The Creation:
After countless iterations and rigorous testing, Boy Box emerged as the epitome of comfort and style. Crafted from premium, breathable fabrics and featuring innovative design elements, our underwear is engineered to adapt to the body’s unique contours, providing unparalleled support and freedom of movement.
The Launch:
In November 2022, after two years of relentless pursuit of perfection, Boy Box made its debut, offering a range of thoughtfully designed underwear for the modern man. Rooted in Brooklyn’s vibrant culture and embracing diversity in all its forms, Boy Box aims to empower individuals to embrace their authenticity and live life without compromise.
As the co-founder of Boy Box, I am immensely proud of the journey we’ve embarked upon and the community we’ve built. With a commitment to quality, sustainability, and inclusivity, Boy Box is not just a brand – it’s a lifestyle choice, redefining the underwear experience one box at a time.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
With a passion for entrepreneurship and a keen eye for innovation, I embarked on a journey in the world of e-commerce back in 2017. Fueled by a desire to understand the intricacies of online businesses, I immersed myself in the dynamic realm of digital commerce, learning the ropes and mastering the art of online retail.
Through years of hands-on experience at Saks Fifth Avenue, Sachin & Babi, Eugenia Kim, and Estee Lauder Companies; I honed my skills, navigating the ever-evolving landscape of e-commerce with confidence and expertise. From marketing strategies to supply chain management, I gained invaluable insights into the interworkings of successful online ventures, laying the foundation for my own underwear business.
Boy Box was co-founded by friends Maleke Glee and Edwin Exaus, but brought to life by supporters. Our goal is to design men’s intimates with intention. We prioritize fashion, will never sacrifice all-day comfort, and are pros at inclusivity. Now under the direction of me, the brand hopes to build the Boy Box community openly and honestly. Our collections are a reflection of us and with our customers’ support, a reflection of them.
In August 2023 we hosted our first pop-up shop in Brooklyn, which produced a crowd of 125+ people that came to support the brand. It was my proudest moment to date to receive such love and support from our customers.
Can you tell us the story behind how you met your business partner?
In the heart of Brooklyn, I met Maleke Glee through a mutual friend at Angels of Harlem, a lively brunch spot. Over food, drinks, and dancing, an instant bond formed. Our shared vision and passion for innovation sparked the beginning of our partnership, leading to the creation of Boy Box, where we aim to revolutionize men’s underwear.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
After initially launching Boy Box as a subscription service within the adult industry, I quickly realized that the sector’s overwhelming nature didn’t align with our vision. Recognizing the need for a pivot, we shifted our focus to reposition Boy Box as a premium men’s underwear line. This strategic move allowed us to tap into a broader market while staying true to our commitment to quality, comfort, and style. Today, Boy Box stands as a testament to our adaptability and determination to provide men with the ultimate underwear experience.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.subscribeboybox.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/subscribeboybox/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/subscribeboybox
Image Credits
Photography by Alex Muccilli