Q&A With Joe Baron Founder of Branded Baron

Timeless Q&A with no average Joe!

Joe Baron

*Timeless Question* 

To help the readers connect with the Q&A could you please introduce yourself and talk a little bit about Branded Baron?

I am Joe Baron, founder of Branded Baron. Branded Baron is based in Northern New Jersey and is committed to providing quality designs at reasonable prices that are “No Less than Stunningly Fresh” for anyone who is wants to stand out from the crowd.

*Timeless Question* 

When did you first create your line and how difficult was the process? 

It was launched to the public in August of ‘09. What was difficult was making sure everything was ready for the release. I had to do my research, make sure the designs I had to go through the designs that were going to be released, have the funding for the printing, building up hype, etc. There’s a ton of work and it’s a constant uphill battle.

*Timeless Question* 

Some lines do everything in house, are you one of those brands?

For the most part, yes. My fellow Branded Baron designer Danette and I handle most of the design work, but there have been situations where I felt there was an artist who’s style fit with Branded Baron.

*Timeless Question* 

Where does the name Branded Baron come from and how does it represent you? 

When brainstorming, I wanted it to reflect my interests and represent quality. A baron was part of the royal heirarchy, who was a nobleman who spoke for the people. I wanted this to be a brand for the people with quality apparel to designs with a positive message. It just so happens that “baron” is also my last name, so that’s how it represents my interests. When that name came up when we were figuring out what to call it, that one to me stood out and I think it has a nice ring. Branded Baron.

*Timeless Question* 

Does the fact that the world is in a recession change your business plans at all, if so how? 

Haven’t you heard? The recession is over. I’ve always had a goal to provide the customer with quality product with an affordable price. Plus, if you follow Branded Baron on facebook, twitter, or our mailing list, you’ll occasionally see some info on discounts for our online store.

*Timeless Question* 

What are some of the mistakes you made that you have learned from?

Timing is everything. Plan ahead and make sure everything is on schedule. If everything isn’t ready it can be embarrassing. There will be setbacks, so plan accordingly. 

*Timeless Question* When you have questions about what to do next regarding your line, who do you talk to?  

When it comes to thinking of what’s next, I’d speak with my vice-president, my fellow designer, and maybe ask advice from some other clothing company owners that I’m cool with, as well as some close knits friends who help support Branded Baron.

If it’s new designs, I’ll ask the same people and have my own little focus group of people I know will say tell me what they do and don’t like. I’d also take the feedback from the stores that carry us for consideration. 

I just have a calendar/planner for the whole year and know what I want to do and fill the days in if something new pops up. You need that inner circle you can trust and strategize as best as you can.

*Timeless Question* Could you name some of the brands you wear regularly and do they ever inspire a design? 

I rather not say, but there are shirts from other indie brands. I honestly wear Branded Baron pretty much everyday. As I’m answering these questions I’m currently rocking the Red Baron tee, so I’m 100% behind what we create. 

*Timeless Question* How did you go about getting your line sold in local stores?

I would go directly to the stores, so I could speak to the owner. They would get a chance to meet me and I would be able to talk about my brand. I would carry my line sheet and samples with me for them to see, so they could look at it when they’re interested. It’s a bit easier when you can speak to someone face to face rather than e-mail. Either way you need to have hot products for them to be interested in carrying your stuff. I’ve seen some items that I thought would be perfect for a particular shop, not be carried by one, but carried by another. You have to know the stores demographic and see if your company would be a good fit for them.

*Timeless Question* 

How difficult is it to update your website and keep your designs current? 

It’s not that difficult to update the website at all with the products, blog, etc. It may take awhile if I want to redesign it, but for the most part I’m happy with it.

Keeping up with designs is another thing and they’re a bit more difficult. Now it’s good to want and be a trend-setter, but you need to know what’s out there. You should see where fashion is going, so you know what the competition has. There was one bad case where a designer friend and I came up with the same concept and his design was for a bigger brand and we both released the same design at the same time. Let me tell you I was pissed when I walked in a small boutique and saw that. I personally think my execution was cleaner and a lot better, but that was an accident. No one stole each other’s idea, just two designers coming up with the same concept. It happens, but it sucks. For the most part I think our designs can hold its own, especially with some of the concepts we have. It’s really about making our design stand out where someone needs to have it. Blood, sweat, and tears go into producing Branded Baron. 

*Timeless Question* What can we expect from Branded Baron in the next couple years? 

I expect to see Branded Baron in bigger and better and in more stores. I also expect to have some custom apparel designed. Sometimes it’s hard to be patient and I want to release it all.

*Timeless Question* Where can customers find Branded Baron and contact you if they have questions? 

http://www.brandedbaron.com Check the site out and check out the blog, so you can see further what we’re about. You can use the contact form on the website or send an e-mail to info@brandedbaron.com Also, follow Branded Baron on twitter:and like us on facebook: You can even some of the videos we have on youtube.

*Timeless Question* Is there anything else you would like to add? 

Thank you for the interview and thanks to all those who read this. Thank you for all the supporters and future supporters. There’s FREE shipping for the rest of December on all domestic orders and low priced international shipping. 

Stay no less than Stunningly Fresh!

*Remember Im Timeless Here to Bring You The Latest Styles* 

Q&A With Brian Wanjare Founder of Sublime Dreamer

Timeless Q&A with a rising line. 

*Timeless Question* Being that your not quite nationally known could you please introduce yourself as well as talk a little bit about your line?


My name is Brian Wanjare, founder of Sublime Dreamer. I started it in 2008and shortly after I partnered with my best friends Kyle Gray Jr. & James Woods. When starting this line I envisioned something simplistic, but rare, and unique, at the same time. Therefore Sublime Dreamer was born.


*Timeless Question* When did you realize your passion for fashion?


Well I started off as always a sneaker lover at a young age, and I would always get sneakers that were uncommon so I would have to find clothing to specifically match them. I would say it started then.


*Timeless Question* How challenging is it to have a clothing line at such a young age?


I wouldn't say its challenging, I think its actually an edge because we are starting at such a young age. We've been in the fashion industry for two years now and I'm still only 19 and my partners are 21 and 20. We have the opportunity to grow and learn.

*Timeless Question* What qualities does your line possess that other brands lack?


I think our biggest thing is that our brand is universal. We dont cater to one specific market or group, and anyone can relate to our brand. Thats why I think we've gotten such a great response. Also the fact that we don't do things just because its popular or will make money, we make very conscientious decisions.


*Timeless Question* You cant possibly be doing all the work by yourself, so who else is helping and how is their job different from yours?


As I mentioned before, basically since day one Ive been on this journey with my partners Kyle Gray Jr. and James Woods.

*Timeless Question* Where did the name Sublime Dreamer come from and why did you decide on a name so unusual?


We all have aspirations to achieve some sort of goal or dream, and we all want to be the best in that specific goal, hence the name Sublime Dreamer.


*Timeless Question* Every season there are new designs meaning more work to be done, how do you come up with something different throughout the year?


Inspiration, everyday life inspires my designs, so its had to run out of ideas when everyday life inspires you.


*Timeless Question* How do you go about hiring designers or new employees?

We really keep a close, tight circle, the main core of myself, Kyle and James, we've known each other for seven years. Then we have others who are also on the team, but once again these are people we've either grown up with or known for years. I think keeping a close circle helps tremendously, because everyone has the brands best interest at heart.


*Timeless Question* Are you involved in anything else besides Sublime Dreamer?


We throw events in Delaware, we have started another company Merrim Live(www.merrimlive.com) for conducting the events. However, Sublime Dreamer is always the main focus.


*Timeless Question* What message does you line convey to customers?


Sublime Dreamer is a brand that embodies the ambitious never ending dream of success and achievement. We all have aspirations that we strive to accomplish, and not only to accomplish them, but to achieve them in the utmost fashion. Therefore, a Sublime Dreamer simply symbolizes an individual who dreams of being the best at what they do and working nonstop towards that goal.


*Timeless Question* Where do you envision your line in five years?


Hopefully with our own store, and larger presence nationally...well internationally.

*Timeless Question* Do you have any advice for other designers/entrepreneurs?


Always follow what you honestly believe in, never let money, fame or anything else drive your decisions. Also be prepared to fail many times, but consistency and hard work is what brings success.


*Timeless Question* Finally where can your line be found and how can you be contacted?


Our website is www.sublimedreamer.com and there is a contact us section where we can be reached.

*Timeless Question* Is there anything else you would like to add?


Just want to thank you for taking the time to reach out to us, and hope you much success with your own endeavors, defiantly a Sublime Dreamer. But also to keep an eye out for our highly anticipated 2011 Spring Collection, we've been really working hard to bring our fans something great.






*Remember Im Timeless Here to Bring You The Latest Styles*

Q&A With Chris Hudson founder of Lifes Clothing

Timeless Q&A, one for the history books.

*Timeless Question* Since many people may not know to much about you or your line could you please introduce them? 

My name is Chris Hudson Founder of Life’s Journey Clothing which is a clothing lifestyle brand. We specialize in positive slogans and creating timeless messages that will make you think about your future.

*Timeless Question* What inspired you to create a clothing line?

GOD. I believe by me having a relationship with him he gave me this vision to help inspire people. I believe that everyone has a story to tell and mines isn’t the only one I want to tell.

*Timeless Question* It looks easy from the outside but can you tell us about your average day?

My average day usually consist of working on new concepts, marketing our products, constantly networking with individuals, and keeping my team motivated.

*Timeless Question* How difficult is it starting a business venture like this?

Nothing in life is easy because if it was everyone would be doing it. It’s very difficult but so is life that’s why you have to learn from every choice you make.

*Timeless Question* Were there any doubts you had in the beginning that made you nervous?

I believe vision is the greatest gift that he has given us as people so I wasn’t nervous. I was more doubtful if anything because I really wanted people to embrace my work.

*Timeless Question* What separates your lines from the others? 

The message, slogans, It’s more of lifestyle in which people can identify with.

*Timeless Question* Everyone needs someone in their corner, who are your supporters?

GOD, few close friends, and everyone that supports Life’s Journey.

*Timeless Question* Where do you see your line in I don't know, let’s say five years?

Household brand name developed more into a clothing line. Also, touring around the world speaking to the young people. Also giving back to the communities and to the youth.

*Timeless Question* Have your goals changed or altered at all since you began your line?

Always, potential never has a retirement plan I’m always striving to do more.

*Timeless Question* It seems to me like you are attempting to convey a positive message, can you talk a little about that? 

Yes well to me it seems no matter where you go the world is often filled with negative thoughts. It could be what you listen to, who you’re around, how you were raised, etc. So my vision is to help change the world

*Timeless Question* Just because you have your own line doesn't mean you don't wear any other brands. What other clothing lines do you wear? 

 LRG, Stussy, and various underground brands

*Timeless Question* Do you have a daily motto that inspires you to push through adversity that may help others to do so?

Believe in myself, Pursue my purpose, and Inspire the world. 

*Remember Im Timeless Here to Bring You The Latest Styles*

Q&A With the Owners of Le Ninja

Timeless (Back Again) with another Q&A



*Timeless Question* To help  the readers better understand you and your line can you tell them a little bit about both? 

Le Ninja is an American Clothing Brand created by two friends who wanted to buy fashionable, quality clothing made in the U.S.A.  After graduating from Valparaiso University in May 2010, each with a JD/MBA, we searched through websites and stores of popular clothing brands and discovered that it was nearly impossible to buy such clothing.  After talking to friends, family and strangers, it seemed that they had all made the same discovery.  So, we decided to start making what they and so many others wanted to buy.  Le Ninja is a blend of East and West, of Haute Couture and the young American movement to develop our own fashion, culture, and ability.

*Timeless Question* How did you come up with a name like Le Ninja?

"Le Ninja" is French for "The Ninja."  We were searching for a name that would truly represent what we were trying to create.  Ninja’s are masters at what they do.  The word “Le” sounds fancier than the word “The.”  Subsequently, our company was born.

*Timeless Question* Did you always want to start a clothing business? 

I am not sure that we ever dreamed of starting a clothing line.  We had a taste for fashion and clothing but having a line of our own was something of a pleasant and unexpected journey.  Our choice to be entrepreneurs has been the best of our lives, thus far.  We have always wanted to make a difference, and this clothing line is also about doing our part to revive American Industry.  Making our clothes in the U.S.A. is paramount to our existence. 

*Timeless Question* What inspired your very first design and has your style changed since then?

Our first design was inspired by many factors.  First, the design was extraordinarily literal.  It included countless sketches of a Ninja holding a French Baguette, Ninjas with French Mustaches and striped shirts, and some with a beret instead of a headband.  Eventually we had sketched enough and it started to take shape, it had to be a symbol that was all things just like the name.  It was simple and sophisticated, strong, yet inviting.  After coming up with a general idea, we took our design to a professional, MH Dezign, of Chicago.  They polished our rough draft and brought it to life.  So, our design has changed but the idea remained the same.  We searched for the perfect representation of our idea, and we’re confident that we’ve found it!

*Timeless Question* What were your goals before you started your line and have they changed since then?

Our goals before we started Le Ninja were to start a business that makes a positive difference in the world and to be happy working at it.   We believe making high quality fashionable clothing in the U.S.A. is an important purpose. Today, many clothing companies focus their energy on the bottom line at the expense of quality and the American economy.  Our line prides itself on being 100% Made in the U.S.A. without the use of sweatshops or unfair labor practices.  Our goals have remained mostly the same in purpose, but have expanded in breadth.  

*Timeless Question* How is Le Ninja different?

Le Ninja is about a lifestyle not about squeezing profit margins.  It’s about living free, committed to excellence, humility and good times.  Our mantra is simple, "Be Le Ninja."  It means, whatever you do, do it to the best of your ability with the resources you have, be humble, and never give up.  

*Timeless Question* If you could choose one celebrity to wear your clothes who would that person be?

We can’t choose just one! Celebrities like Justin Timberlake, Scarlett Johansson, Matt Damon, Ellen DeGeneres, and Oprah Winfrey who contribute so much of their time, energy, money, and popularity to charities would be our favorites. Choosing one celebrity is a challenge.  To be honest any celebrity that knows who they are and truly finds our clothing line fashionable and feels comfortable wearing it would be great.  Sure there are celebrities out there that we think would look great in the V Neck especially the one with Genuine Swarowski Crystals like Selena Gomez or Lauren Conrad but anyone really who believes in our brand and what we stand for would be a great choice! 

*Timeless Question* Everyone who has money and many who don't shop on Black Friday, how do you draw attention to your brand?

We are a fairly new brand.  Just launched last week, in fact.  In order to drive attention to our brand and site we are using social media like Facebook and Twitter to gain loyal followers and fans of the brand.  In addition, we are conducting a guerilla marketing campaign, hitting the streets of Chicago passing out stickers and wearing the shirts.  We focus the majority of our efforts on making our customers happy and word of mouth advertising.

*Timeless Question* How do you go about hiring employees such as designers? 

Right now our friends at M.H.Dezign help us with design aspect.  As for other employees our Office Ninja, Morgan, does an excellent job running the sales office and customer service.  As the company continues to grow we will be looking for fashion consultants, designers, IT, and accounting help.  We look for people who are reliable, fun, and easy to work with. 

*Timeless Question* What is a regular work day for you?

Let’s just say we do not sleep much right now!  We are constantly working social media networks and spreading the brand and the website.  Before the site launched however, a typical day consisted of talking with vendors and purchasers regarding a number of different things for the clothing line.  In a typical day we probably log close to 14 hours and love every minute of it!

*Timeless Question* Running a business is hard work, what do you to relax?

Turn off the computer, and get out and do something active.  Either working out, going to a movie, or playing the guitar are good stress relievers.  Two weeks ago we went to South Bend, IN and attended a Notre Dame game which was a good time.  Additionally we really love going out in Chicago.  Oh and we also play an acoustic set at bars and coffee shops sometimes which is a nice break from work! 

*Timeless Question* Where can customers find Le Ninja and contact you for any questions?

Customers can find anything they want about Le Ninja at our website www.leninja.com.  They can also see our facebook page at www.facebook.com/leninjaclothing  We pride ourselves on quality and a desire to hear the voices of our customers.  Anyone is free to e-mail us at jon@leninja.com or joel@leninja.com

We would love to hear from anyone so please feel free to share your favorite ninja stories with us or anything in general we love to hear it!

BE LE NINJA!!! 

*Remember Im Timeless Here to Bring You The Latest Styles*

Q&A With Robert Preston, sole owner of Bobby Fresh Clothing

Timeless strikes with a FRESH new Q&A!  


*Timeless Question* Thank  you for taking the time out of your day to do this Q&A with me. For the readers benefit can you please introduce yourself and your line?


My name is Robert Preston , sole owner of Bobby Fresh ..... Started the clothing line in the late spring/summer of 2007. 

*Timeless Question* When did your line become official, meaning website and all?

We started selling tees in a boutique I owned for 10 years called livin n hip hop in tempe az. Got on karmaloops kazbah and from there it took off.

*Timeless Question* How did the line come about and get its name?

The name stems from my first name robert and bobby being a nick name I had as a kid . The fresh part needs no explanation, its what we all want to be when we step out the house everyday.

*Timeless Question* How has owning a clothing line changed your life?

My clothing line has changed my life in many ways. Traveling all over the country meeting people, marketing and learning the business. We opened our in house manufacturing earlier this year and now print over 60 brands from all over.

*Timeless Question* Where does your inspiration for designing come from and is it you designing? 

My inspiration comes from doing something I love and giving the customers something they love and continuing to grow as a brand. 

*Timeless Question* How do you go about hiring employees or people interested in working with your line?

Employees have always come to us with the desire to be apart of the team. We look for people who believe in the brand and want to learn and be a asset to our company. A lot of the guys want to someday have their own line and that's what I am here for to grow new brands and help them in that process.

*Timeless Question* How would a new clothing line approach a local store to see if there interested in selling their line?

If you want to get your clothing in stores you got to make a strong line that the buyers see themselves taking a chance on. Create a look book line sheet and contact as many stores as you can. Based off the responses you should be able to know what to change or keep for your next seasons.

*Timeless Question* Can you describe some of the unexpected obstacles you have faced since you started Bobby Fresh?

There are tons of obstacles we face everyday in this company . I would say the hardest is building a strong team with a common goal . Another that sticks out is continuing to drop products that are unique and that your customer base gravitate too . You got to have great work ethic and have a vision for where you want to be before you get there.

*Timeless Question* Did you go to school for fashion or was this line built off your love for fashion?

I didn't go to any fashion school but my knowledge came from opening a urban/streetwear boutique that I owned for 10 years. I was a buyer so I learned the retail end, the buying end and watched others success and decided to start a line when I felt the time was right . 

*Timeless Question* A business venture like this can be costly, how much did it take to finance the start of your line?

All the start up capital was from my pre existing business fortunately. We started small wit 4 t shirt designs and built it up from there.

*Timeless Question* Where do you see Bobby Fresh in five years? 

In 5 years I see us as a house hold name, opening a lot of bigger doors and branching into denims, accessories, and more. I feel we appeal to a lot of different people. Everyone wants to be fresh. 

*Timeless Question* Where can customers find Bobby Fresh and how can they contact you if need be? 

People can find bobby fresh in street wear boutiques all across the us and in most international countries. Online check us out at bobbyfresh.com , karmaloop.com , pickyourshoes.com and more . If you are ever in Arizona check out our flagship store stocked with all bobby fresh . If you have any questions or want to carry our line email direct @ bobby@bobbyfresh.com 

*Timeless Question* Is there anything else you would like to add? 

Thank you so much for your time and the opportunity . Robert

*Remember Im Timeless Here to Bring You The Latest Styles*

Q&A With Brad and Rudy Co Owners of Live A Lie

*Timeless Question* To help the everyone connect with you and Live A Lie Clothing can you please introduce yourself and tell us a little bit about the brand?

Brad

Brad - Well I’m co owner of Live A Lie.  I used to work on another line called Civility a few years back.  That’s where I found my partner Rudy.  We wanted to create a DIY image that looks great and doesn’t drain your bank account.  We also have a sales manager (Brenden) who plays a big part and wasn’t able to be with us today for the interview..

Rudy- I’ve always had an interest in working with clothing lines so when Brad hit me up on this project I jumped on the opportunity to get involved.  Live A Lie has a big meaning to it.  We are not really ones to follow the trends and really want to stick to doing our own weird thing so just being ourselves and not living a lie is real important to a lifestyle we want to support.

*Timeless Question* How difficult is it to start a clothing line and could you sum up the process?

Rudy

Brad-  Like any business its hard work and time consuming. I’m not the most patient person so having to wait for weeks just to see how your shirts will come out drives me crazy.  If you want to grow you have to live your line rather than just keep it a hobby.  It takes a lot of time but worth it to achieve a dream.

Rudy-  Hell yea its hard to start.  You basically have to know what you are doing with your money and not assume it will blow up big over night. What takes the most time developing the right formula on when to order, how much, and how you will market them.

*Timeless Question* What methods do you use to promote your line, and does that cost addition money? 

Brad-  We take full advantage of all free social networking (twitter, facebook, etc..) The cost effective methods we use are mainly stickers and free shirts that we give to bums downtown. 

Rudy-  My personal choice of promotion is just the basics like passing out flyers at parties and events, having hot girls wear our shirts, and using subliminal messages to get our name out there.

*Timeless Question* Live A Lie Clothing is a very strong name, how did you come up with it and the logo?

Brad-  The name just came up as sarcasm at first but it started to stick around.  As for the logo we honestly just thought it looked bad ass at the time to rock on a shirt but we never claimed it as an official logo..

Rudy-  I just went along with it.

*Timeless Question* As a designer do you ever have creation block, if so how do you overcome it?

Brad-  Yea I think everyone does.  I like to just store up on deigns that way you always have something new to come out with the next month.  To overcome the block I recommend just getting drunk or watching the Grinch..

Rudy-  To overcome creation block I usually just get drunk and go get a Thai massage or something..

*Timeless Question* When people who aren't familiar with your brand look at your clothes what do they notice immediately?

Brad- My friends tell me all the time that people comment positively on the shirts they get from me.  I think our bold designs and full use of the shirt draws instant attention.

Rudy-  They notice the quality of our shirts.  We have them made with extra love and care.

*Timeless Question* How do you find employees to higher such as designers etc?

Brad-  We are never happy with designs from other people because we want it to strictly be our thoughts and ideas creating our brand.  So everything from our website design to our shirts is done by us.

*Timeless Question* Although Black Friday was yesterday, there still are sales throughout the weekend,  how do you prepare for the madness and is it as crazy for you as it is for the shoppers? 

Brad-  We just made sure we were stocked up on everything and once word got around town that we have 12 dollar shirts yesterday shit went pretty good..

Rudy-  I spent yesterday at a few black Friday sales.  It was as crazy as I thought.

*Timeless Question* If you had to settle on one word to define your brand what would it be and why? 

Brad-  Inspiring because we are coming from nothing in the world and making ourselves something to be proud of.

Rudy-  Orgasmic..  Explains itself..

*Timeless Question* What can we expect from Live A Lie Clothing in 2011?

Brad-  New designs of hoodies in January along with crewnecks.

Rudy-  Beer cozy’s and tank tops for summer time.

*Timeless Question* Are there any mistakes you made that you would caution others not to repeat? 

Brad- Sounds cliché but don’t over print on certain designs because it will take out your budget.

Rudy- If your outsourcing with screen printers be sure to shop around because your gona regret getting a bad batch of shirts.

*Timeless Question* Lastly where can Live A Lie Clothing be found and how can customers get in touch with you for any questions or concerns? 

Brad- Our shirts are mainly sold at hardcore and pop shows in the southern California area but will hopefully be in stores by January.  I’ll give a heads up on twitter and facebook!  For concerns or info on wholesale contact livealieclothing@gmail.com

Rudy- Check our new website www.livealie.storenvy.com , twitter that we update constantly!  www.twitter.com/livealieapparel and even facebook.com/livealieclothing

*Timeless Question* Is there anything else you would like to add? 

Brad-  Be cool and stay in school.  Feel free to email me if you need advice on starting your own clothing lines or interested in sponsorships by us.  livealieclothing@gmail.com

Rudy-  Keep on truckin and keep an eye out for our rad designs coming out in December!  Ps. Sorry for our bad grammar we aren’t the best at proper typing etiquette..