What’s in a name? A lot apparently, as entrepreneurs, artists, and makers of all kinds spend enormous amounts of energy searching for the right name for their business, project, organization, or creation. Below, you’ll find the stories of how various successful brands, creators and entrepreneurs came up with their names.
Prettyp
I discovered “PrettyP” when I was 17 years old. Growing up I never had a nickname because my name isn’t long enough for one. As i came into my artistry and individuality, I wanted to give myself a name that stood out. In school, I was always bullied for being the pretty black girl who was shy. I had a lot of envious people around me and monitoring spirits. That caused me to have low self esteem and confidence because I believed I wasn’t good enough for society. I gave myself the name “PrettyP” as a way of embracing my beauty and believing in myself. Read more>>
Leah Gilkerson
Our name was carefully chosen by our founders, Leah and Kaitlyn, who drew inspiration from the wise and transformative qualities of ravens.
Just like these remarkable birds known for their problem-solving abilities and vocal communication, our books hold wisdom and intelligence waiting to be unlocked. We chose the name ‘The Unkind Raven’ as it perfectly captures the mysterious allure associated with a group of ravens known as an ‘unkindness’. Read more>>
Leila Lawson
Every morning, the sound of Velcro as I removed my ballistic vest reminded me of my unique journey that led to the creation of my brand. As a law enforcement officer, my world was an open book; my name displayed prominently for all to see as I served my community. But life has a way of teaching us valuable lessons about boundaries. Read more>>
Shradha Challa
We started as Rasa Chai—”Rasa” means tasty, and our goal was simple: bring authentic chai to the U.S. The name felt perfect because it reflected what we set out to do—share the flavors, warmth, and culture of chai in its most authentic form.
The idea for this company was born while I was studying at WashU, missing the chai I grew up drinking in India. My grandmother’s recipes were my inspiration, and I wanted to bring those traditions with me. What started as a simple idea quickly turned into something bigger. We began selling at farmers markets, brewing fresh chai and sharing our story with every cup. Read more>>
Makenzie Hippard
In 2020, I had a class in my cosmetology program that focused on development of businesses, names and other items. We had to make a mock business website, name and moto to present it as if it were real. When trying to find names for my assignment, I started to think of different names for my then hair business. I went around with your simple and basic “Makenzie Beauty” “Makenzie Hair” and more. I wanted to be more creative and memorable. At 18 years old, RavenZie Beauty was born but it was not real yet. After my presentation, I started building my business right out of school. Sadly, COVID-19 gave me other plans in life. I dissolved my original hair business only a year later. Read more>>
Deionnah Davis
When I first began doing makeup, I started under the name DeeFaced By Dee. I love alliteration and the name just kind of flowed. Once I started Esthetician school, I realized I wanted my business brand name to not only showcase the services I offered but I also wanted it to have personal meaning. That’s how Jaded Angel Esthetics came to be. It’s a combination of my daughter’s and my middle names. Read more>>
Bradley Berkman
The agency’s name, “brain in a vat,” comes from a thought experiment I first encountered in a college philosophy course on metaphysics and epistemology. It explores the nature of perception, reality, and knowledge — questions that have always fascinated me. Read more>>
Dr. Danielle Feggins
Speak to All is a professional service company dedicated to motivational and inspirational purposes through public speaking, life coaching, and development training. The concept of the name “Speak to All” draws inspiration from the biblical passage Joshua 1:6-9. In this scripture, God repeatedly encouraged Joshua to be strong and courageous as he assumed leadership to guide the Israelites into the Promised Land. During the challenging times when Joshua’s faith was tested, God reminded him to rely on divine strength and power. God also urged Joshua to meditate on His Word day and night, assuring him of His constant presence. Read more>>
Mishay Ware
The name of my business comes from my name, as well as, what I call my merchandise, Gifts, and I add the Galore part to it when I make hand make everything with love. By Shay comes from part of my first name. So everybody will know it’s ME. Read more>>