We recently connected with Nicole Goins-Parnell and have shared our conversation below.
Nicole, appreciate you joining us today. Can you tell us the backstory behind how you came up with the idea?
I started my creative journey with a musical and fashion influence. My love for music and fashion played a huge role in my creative career. During my high school and college career I was heavily involved in music production and designing. I developed a record label and wanted to seek additional endeavors. Because of my fashion background, I decided to provide styling, design services and creative direction for artists and business owners.
The Trap Shop was created to provide these services to others who were interested in my products and clothing. The Trap Shop is only a subset and umbrella business for Raeluminati Brands Creative Agency, where all of my creative ideas live.
Raeluminati Brands Creative Agency is an umbrella term for all in house brands created by me, it is an audacious creative multimedia studio specializing in brand development, wardrobe styling, online boutiques, creative direction, marketing and website design for beauty, lifestyle, and fashion brands.
I feel that I continue to make an impact on various industries by being a multidisciplinary and multifaceted designer, brand strategist, and creative director. With The Trap Shop, my goal is to execute and elevate the creative visions of black and brown founders. Led by our pursuit of beauty, cultural influences, and endless curiosity.
Another passion is creating unmissable and conscious brand experiences that are strategically and aesthetically aligned with my clients vision and to help clients uncover their brand story, personal aesthetic and carry it out in style.

Nicole, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
Raven “Raeluminati” Goins-Parnell is a Therapist, Project Manager, and creative director from Columbia, South Carolina. A College Graduate who began Working in the music industry at an early age. Her many talents include Writing, Fashion Design/Styling, Photography, Videography, and graphic design.
Graduating from HGTC in 2013 she received her Associates degree in Education. Rae majored in Recreation/Sport management and minored in Mass Communications at Coastal Carolina University and graduated in 2017 with a Bachelor of Science Degree and in 2022 received a Masters Degree in Social Work from Winthrop University. Rae is currently a licensed Recreation Therapist and clinical counselor, while doing what she loves as a hobby, and that is being an all around creative.
A certified photographer and graphic designer, she likes to create Merchandise, graphics, music, and art. Rae manages several businesses such as a media and cultural platform, online boutique, clothing line, and creative design agency.
Rae also is the CEO of the HLM agency which focuses on health and wellness, Counseling and Educational and Professional Development Services. Rae is currently The owner of Raeluminati Brands Creative Agency; a remote brand design agency and marketing consultancy for millennial and Gen-Z WOC.
Rae continues to build brands, marketing and creative content for the culture and work heavily in the world of fashion, music, art and design.
Raeluminati Brands Creative Agency is an umbrella term for all in house brands created by Raeluminati, it is an audacious creative multimedia studio specializing in brand development, creative direction, marketing and website design for beauty, lifestyle, and fashion brands. Rae continues to make an impact on various industries and is a multidisciplinary and multifaceted designer, brand strategist, and creative director.
We execute and elevate the creative visions of black and brown founders. Led by our pursuit of beauty, cultural influences, and endless curiosity. We create unmissable and conscious brand experiences that are strategically and aesthetically aligned with your vision. We help you to uncover your brand story, find your voice and carry it out in style.
Raeluminati has traveled the world and worked with many known names in the industry; rom styling and designing for fashion showcases, video shoots, and various events.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
My goal and mission is to spread creative awareness. The goal that drives my creative journey is to inspire positive change through art and storytelling. I firmly believe in the power of creativity to connect people, spark emotions, and ignite meaningful conversations. Throughout my life, I have witnessed the transformative impact that art can have on individuals and communities alike, and I am deeply passionate about harnessing that potential.
My mission is to use my creative talents to shed light on important social issues, promote empathy, and encourage critical thinking. I strive to create works that challenge existing narratives, break stereotypes, and provoke discussions that lead to positive action. Whether it’s through visual arts, writing, or multimedia projects, my aim is to touch the hearts and minds of people, and inspire them to see the world from different perspectives.
I believe that art has the unique ability to transcend barriers of language, culture, and background. It has the power to unite people and bridge divides, fostering understanding and compassion. By utilizing my creativity, I want to contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society where everyone’s voice is heard and valued.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
I would have to say the most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative is the freedom to use expression. Moreover, my goal is not only to create art that evokes emotions, but also to inspire action. I want my work to motivate individuals to make a difference, whether it’s by raising awareness, supporting causes, or actively participating in initiatives that contribute to a better world.
Throughout my creative journey, I continually seek opportunities to collaborate with like-minded individuals and organizations that share my passion for social impact. My Goal is to amplify efforts and create a collective movement towards a more inclusive, equitable, and compassionate society.
In summary, my goal is to utilize my creative talents to ignite conversations, challenge perspectives, and inspire positive change. I believe that art has the power to shape the world, and I’m committed to using my creative journey as a catalyst for a brighter future.

Contact Info:
- Website: www.raeluminati.com
- Instagram: @raeluminati and @trapshoponline
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetrapshopp
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravengoins
- Twitter: @raeluminati
Image Credits
Raven Nicole Goins-Parnell

