Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to LaToya Nelson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
LaToya , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Alright – so having the idea is one thing, but going from idea to execution is where countless people drop the ball. Can you talk to us about your journey from idea to execution?
Growing up, I always knew that I wanted to become the owner of a business or organization. I have a passion for providing resources, assistance, and creating unique things. It’s as if I can look at something and easily replicate or recreate it with a creative twist. I have successfully created and sold many products, as well as helped others do the same. One day, while I was praying, God inspired me with the idea of Women Without Fears. Initially, I thought it would just be just the title of a book, but little did I know that God was actually laying the foundation for ministry and an umbrella organization for women. This organization would provide resources, foster new ideas, and encourage collaborations among women. Although it has been challenging, I have had to conduct thorough research in the fields in which I wanted to establish my businesses. I emphasize the fact that “I did the research” because I have encountered individuals in the same field who are unwilling to share information. However, I believe in sharing knowledge and expertise because we all have our own unique marketplace. I am not a gatekeeper, and if I possess valuable information or know-how, I am willing to share it with others.
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?
It all began when I started styling hair. I thoroughly enjoyed helping people feel confident and creating new looks for them. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work with some of the top stylists in the Saint Louis area. My first brick-and-mortar establishment was a salon in 1999 called An Angel’s Touch Studio Salon, where I also sold retail hair products. Today, I am proud to say that I have expanded into my third business, where all of my ventures are housed under one umbrella. The industries I am involved in include beauty, digital design, authorship, and the non-profit sector.
I provide a welcoming and peaceful environment for stylists to work with their clients. In addition, when it comes to creating digital designs for inspirational t-shirts, I offer high-quality visual branding options for Women Without Fears and other small businesses. I often tell my clients that I am a one-stop shop. While I may not be able to do everything, I strive to provide whatever is needed. For example, imagine getting your hair done in a salon filled with trendy, positive t-shirts. What if you were also looking for spiritual guidance and an inspirational book? Or perhaps you need custom designs for your brand? These are just a few of the services that I am proud to offer.
In the business world, there are ups and downs, and it is crucial to understand your target audience and remain disciplined even when things are not going smoothly. This is why I have diversified my offerings to make a difference when one aspect of my business is not performing as expected. It is important to always consider how you can continue to grow within your business.
Women Without Fears, a non-profit organization, is preparing to expand beyond ministry to partner with incredible community organizations in areas such as housing, STEM technology programs, and outreach. We are currently seeking sponsors to support these initiatives.
Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?
The advice I can offer when working with a team is to treat them as leaders and also provide assistance when needed. Teams thrive when there is a lack of competition among members. Each individual plays an important role, so it is essential to identify their strengths and skills and nurture them within the team. Setting standards and demonstrating silent accountability is important. Not everything spoken is necessarily true, but if your actions and integrity align with your words, you can build trust and loyalty within your team. This will prepare them to replicate their knowledge and skills in their respective business ventures.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most rewarding aspect of being a creative is knowing if God gives me a vision I can dream it, see it, create it and it becomes visible.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.womenwithoutfears.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/womenwithoutfears/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/womenwithoutfearsorg
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/womenwithoutfearsorg
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@womenwithoutfearsorg
- Other: https://www.bestprosintown.com/mo/overland/an-angels-touch-studio-salon-/
Image Credits
Lawrence Salley Chapter 8 Studio (cover photo in army green)
Cam’s Photography LLC (photo with hands lifted with floral background)