We recently connected with Justice Ali and have shared our conversation below.
Justice, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Are you happier as a business owner? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job?
I am happy as a business owner and feel like that is how it should be. The flexibility and freedom that comes with being able to be my own boss. I am able to create my own hours and make my own money. Having my own business affords me the ability to really enjoy what I do.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I went through many trials and tribulations in my life, but coming back to start my brand and business bought me to a place where I feel that I have come full circle. Rare Apparel Clothing started in 2010 with the birth of a dream… an idea. From there I created my first ready for sale product and since have grown to appear on social media and in person sales. I often get compliments and reviews on how detailed my designs are and how great customer support is from my company. All while beginning with only myself as an entire staff. I want to inspire people that no matter your circumstance or situation you should pursue your passion.
Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?
One lesson I had to unlearn in starting my own business, was that i could do everything myself. I really started my business trying not to ask for help and work with others. However, after starting my business and working toward success, I realized that this is a lot for one person. I began reaching out to other business owners in the same industry to ask questions and realized that networking is a very important part of business growth. Had I known this before I started, I probably would be further than I am now. I want any of your readers that are thinking of starting a business to read this and understand that no matter what, you will need reliable partners that you can trust as well as a reliable network that you can reach out to and work with.
Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?
I think that what helped me build a great reputation in clothing design is that people can tell i put my all into it. My customers love the turn around for product creation and completion. Customers have also mentioned their love for being able to have input on the product or a flexibility in the work that I put into the product.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://rareapparelclothing.com/
- Instagram: @justiceali808
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/justiceli808