We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Harolyn Rorie. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Harolyn below.
Harolyn, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to have you retell us the story behind how you came up with the idea for your business, I think our audience would really enjoy hearing the backstory.
Initially, starting a business seemed like an impossible feat to me, given my demanding career and family commitments. Also, I didn’t think I could do anything beyond what I was already doing. However, an inflection point in my career made me uncomfortable with the changes happening. Consequently, my personal and professional life was in disarray; I felt incompetent, and my physical and mental well-being deteriorated. I prayed about it and searched for solace and direction, leading me to keep a journal documenting my experiences. As someone who deeply values the power of words, I found journaling to be therapeutic. It allowed me to reflect on my purpose and gave me the courage to leave a 20-year-long corporate career. In 2019, I took a chance and established Poetic Urban Apparel LLC, which creates T-shirt apparel that celebrates the vibrant spirit of urban culture to inspire social change. That’s the short story.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I am the founder of Poetic Urban Apparel LLC (dba Urban Poet Apparel), a small business that designs unique, versatile, and timeless urban t-shirt apparel using inspiring words, quotes, and phrases. Words have always fascinated me, and I initially set out to create and sell greeting cards that celebrated urban culture and could evoke memorable moments and occasions. However, I developed a new concept that combined my love for t-shirts, poetry, and creating social change. My goal was to create a product and a platform that allowed me to be my true self and add value. To achieve this, I started jotting down words, phrases, and quotes that inspired me. Eventually, this led me to design t-shirts I could share with people who appreciate and love wearing them.
Throughout my journey, I faced several challenges. I fell prey to scams and made terrible investments that drained my finances. I was forced to start from scratch multiple times. Attracting and growing a customer base with limited resources and knowledge of manufacturing, marketing, and sales required a lot of hard work. Sometimes, I felt doubtful and disappointed in myself, especially when a design failed to resonate with or attract customers as anticipated.
Despite facing numerous obstacles along the way, I never lost sight of my dream. I worked tirelessly, persevered through tough times, and held onto my faith, which ultimately paid off. After much hard work, I finally had the opportunity to collaborate with a local boutique to sell my t-shirts, and that’s when my dream became a reality. Although my dream has evolved into a growing business, there is still a long way to go.
Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?
I believe ongoing learning is crucial for personal and professional growth. Research and reading are vital on this journey, and have helped me build my business and brand. Among the many books I’ve read, “The Power of Concentration” by Theron Q. Dumont stands out as the most influential. It taught me to focus on my goals and adapt my strategies to changing business environments. I also stay up-to-date by following emerging brands that share my interests, such as Pure Motion Apparel and Graceful Creations LLC. Their resources, including videos, tips, products, and pointers, have been immensely valuable in helping me understand the intricacies of building an apparel brand and business.
Additionally, I follow Daymond John, the founder of FUBU, who is widely regarded as a trailblazer in the first black-owned apparel company. His business acumen, discipline, and entrepreneurial skills have inspired me and other black-owned clothing lines. Despite his challenges, his brand has continued to flourish, serving as a blueprint for success in the fashion industry.
Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?
When I first decided to start a business, I believed I could do it all! As I embarked on my journey, I soon realized that I needed help navigating the complexities of starting a business and managing day-to-day tasks. In other words, sometimes you have to experience failure to achieve success. Appreciating advice, learning from mistakes, and asking for assistance when needed is essential. Collaboration with others is also crucial, but striving for perfection in every aspect can be counterproductive. I have learned this the hard way. Instead, it is wise to identify your strengths and delegate tasks to those better suited. Honesty with oneself and self-awareness are the keys to achieving one’s goals.
To achieve great things, it is essential to prioritize your well-being and embrace simple techniques that can help you along the way. Life is already stressful, and starting a business is time-consuming and demanding; self-care is crucial for success in all life areas. A healthy work-life balance and prioritizing physical and mental well-being can prevent stress and burnout while growing your business.
Lessons from my journey include having a coach/mentor, allowing room for mistakes, knowing when to ask for help, and taking time for self-care to make informed decisions as you pursue your dreams and build your business.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.urbanpoetapparel.com
- Instagram: @Poetic,PUA
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/urbanpoetapparel
- Twitter: @ApparelPoet
- Youtube: http://www,youtube.com/@urbanpoetapparel
Image Credits
Samika Roper
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