We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Tracey Sykes Ambrose. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Tracey below.

Alright, Tracey thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to go back in time and hear the story of how you came up with the name of your brand?

The theme behind Tracey Ambrose W.R.A.P. (with revelation and purpose) derives from the design of a large scarf/wrap I crocheted as a gift in 2005 from no written pattern. However, a creative interpretation of the acronym WRAP is “Wisdom Revealed And Pursued.” In this context, WRAP represents the journey of seeking and discovering profound wisdom and then actively pursuing it in our lives.

The “W” in WRAP symbolizes “Wisdom.” Wisdom is the knowledge and understanding gained through experience, reflection, and deep contemplation. It represents the revelation of profound insights and truths that can guide us towards a more meaningful and purposeful existence.

The “R” in WRAP stands for “Revealed.” It reminds us that wisdom is not always readily apparent or easily accessible. It requires a dedicated search and a mindset of openness and curiosity. This revelation can come from various sources, such as books, mentors, personal experiences, or even moments of profound clarity and epiphany.

The “A” in WRAP represents “And.” It signifies the importance of not only gaining wisdom but also actively pursuing it. It encourages us to take the insights we’ve gained and apply them in our daily lives. This pursuit involves integrating wisdom into our thoughts, actions, and decision-making processes, ultimately leading us towards a more purposeful and fulfilling life.

Lastly, the “P” in WRAP stands for “Pursued.” It emphasizes the ongoing effort and dedication required to truly live in alignment with wisdom. Pursuing wisdom is a continuous journey of growth and self-improvement, where we strive to make choices that reflect our newfound understanding and bring us closer to our desired purpose.

So, Tracey Ambrose W.R.A.P. (with revelation and purpose) is a reminder to seek and embrace wisdom, to actively pursue it in our lives, and to let it guide us towards a more meaningful and purposeful existence.

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?

My name is Tracey Sykes Ambrose and I am a mother of two [handsome sons], Kirk Ambrose (Jr) and Kerrington Ambrose, and Owner/Head Designer of Tracey Ambrose W.R.A.P. “Where Crochet Meets Classy and Chic “; hand crocheted accessories and wearable fashions.

I began crocheting around the age of 7 years old creating hair accessories, beanies, and countless unfinished projects. In 2005, I crocheted a large scarf/wrap for a co-worker moving to the East Coast. From that gift, Tracey Ambrose W.R.A.P. was born with overwhelming compliments… “this scarf looks like it was purchased from a major department store.”

My hand crocheted business is different because 98% of my collection is designed from NO written patterns & I am the only black hand crochet designer in 4 retail locations across Southern and Northern California.

As a business specializing in hand-crocheted accessories and wearable fashion, I am solving several problems for my customers:

Lack of Unique and Personalized Options: Many customers struggle to find accessories and wearable fashion that truly reflect their individuality. Mass-produced items often lack the uniqueness and personal touch that handmade crochet products offer. By providing hand-crocheted accessories, I offer customers the opportunity to express their style and stand out from the crowd.

Quality and Durability Concerns: In today’s fast-paced fashion industry, the focus is often on producing items quickly and cheaply, which can result in lower quality and poor durability. Hand-crocheted items, on the other hand, are made with care, attention to detail, and high-quality materials. By offering these products, I give customers the assurance that their accessories will not only look beautiful but also last a long time.

Supporting Ethical and Sustainable Fashion: Many shoppers are becoming increasingly conscious of the environmental impact and ethical concerns associated with the fashion industry. By choosing hand-crocheted accessories made from responsibly sourced materials, Tracey Ambrose W.R.A.P. contributes to a more sustainable and eco-friendly fashion market. Customers who value these principles feel good about supporting my business and purchasing my products.

Providing Artisanal Craftsmanship and Supporting Local Artisans: Hand-crocheting is a traditional and intricate craft that requires skill and talent. By showcasing and selling these handmade creations, I help preserve this craft and support local artisans and craftsmen. Customers who appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship involved in handmade products are drawn to my business.

Creating a Sense of Connection and Community: In a world of mass production and impersonal shopping experiences, Tracey Ambrose W.R.A.P. has an opportunity to create a sense of connection and community. By engaging with customers through personalized service, sharing stories of my artisans, and promoting collaborations with local creatives, I can foster a loyal customer base that feels a part of my brand’s journey and values.

Overall, Tracey Ambrose W.R.A.P. solves the problem of providing customers with unique, high-quality, sustainable, and meaningful accessories and wearable fashion items that align with their individuality, values, and desire to support local artisans.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

As an entrepreneur, my journey towards resilience was truly tested when I found myself homeless in January 2023. Every day, I face the harsh realities of not having a stable place to live, but I refuse to let it define me or my ambitions. Instead, I channel my energy into finding creative solutions to overcome this challenge. I seek out public spaces with free Wi-Fi to work on my business ideas and connect with potential collaborators. I utilize co-working spaces during the day and rely on the kindness of friends and family for a place to sleep at night. This experience is teaching me the importance of adaptability and resourcefulness, as well as the power of a strong support network. Through perseverance and unwavering determination, I not only manage to keep my entrepreneurial dreams alive, but I am also developing a newfound strength and resilience that will shape my future success.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

During my time as a homeless entrepreneur running a hand-crocheted business, I encountered a situation that demanded a significant pivot. Despite the challenges of not having a stable home, I was committed to making my business thrive. However, I faced an unexpected setback when I lost access to the materials I needed to continue crocheting. Undeterred, I decided to explore other avenues for my creativity. I shifted my focus towards digital marketing and collaboration with other black women entrepreneurs. By leveraging the power of the internet and social media, I was able to reach a wider audience and share my passion for entrepreneurship helping others with their social media and branding presence. This pivot not only allowed me to continue pursuing my business, but it also opened new doors of opportunity. It taught me the importance of adaptability and thinking outside the box, proving that even in the face of adversity, there are always alternative paths to success.

Contact Info:

• Website: Shoptraceyambrosewrap.com
• Instagram: @traceyambrosewrap
• Facebook: @Tracey Ambrose W.R.A.P.
• Twitter: @shoptsawraps
• Other: Threads @traceyambrosewrap Sold at 4 retail locations Our Culture Hub – Inglewood CA Sole Folks – Leimert Park Los Angeles CA Exquisite U Boutique – Sacramento CA Oceans and Roads luxury online boutique