Q&A With B.J. Tinsley, CEO and Founder of Ben Rich Clothing

I wont stop bringing you Q&A's readers check this one out.  

*Timeless Question* Could you please introduce Ben Rich Clothing? 

Ben Rich Clothing Company: “For the man that knows where he has been and knows where he is going.”

*Timeless Question* The first thing i noticed what that your logo is a martini glass, in what way does it represent your line? 

We developed our logo from a standpoint of class. In the upper echelon of elites, the martini represents a higher standard of living. 

*Timeless Question* When you first started this business venture what was your mindset and has it changed since then? 

When I first started this business, my mindset was multiple fold. I have always had an interest in fashion because fashion is exciting and new and I saw a void for those that are outside of the “dragon and skulls” box. I wanted to provide a more mature apparel for the active man. The only way it has changed since then is that I initially aimed the line to golfers but noticed a large percentage of my support has been with a more diverse group of people such as rappers and entertainers. In a sense, I have started to cater to other groups in order to meet my customers’ demand. You will see this in the 2011 line which launches soon.

*Timeless Question* How has owning a clothing line affected your day to day life? 

It has become my day to day life. In saying that, I devote the majority of my time to running my business and increasing its success.

*Timeless Question* What are some challenges you have faced that were unexpected, and how did overcome those obstacles? 

Negativity from my friends. The way that I am overcoming this obstacle is I decided to use it as a stepping stone. I work harder for, and I am more devoted to this company and its success.

*Timeless Question* In what ways does Ben Rich Clothing reinvent the fashion world? 

It is not about reinventing the fashion world, I think Lady Gaga handles this well. It is about finding the genre that fits you best and accommodates your customer base. The reinvention will come with customer feedback and the applying the feedback as necessary for the advancement of Ben Rich Clothing Company. 

*Timeless Question* Can you tell everyone what is the most difficult part about owning a clothing line? 

As hard as you try to please everyone, you can’t. 

*Timeless Question* When you were young did running a clothing ever cross your mind, if not what did you imagine doing as a kid, and please don't say fireman? 

Of course it was a fireman. Just kidding. I always knew I wanted to be successful in life but I just had to find the right venue. I have tried different things in the past and this by far, has been my most successful venture.

*Timeless Question* Ben Rich Clothing is pretty successful, what insight can you share to help others do the same? 

Step out on faith and stick to it! Stay true to your dreams and aspirations and they will stay true to you.

*Timeless Question* How do you go about picking stores to sell your clothes or are you solely based online? 

We let stores pick us. We are primarily online at http://benrichclothing.com but are also available in a few stores in the Austin, Texas area. 

*Timeless Question* Whats next for Ben Rich Clothing? 

We are soon launching our 2011 line and also opening a Ben Rich Clothing Company store front of our own.

*Timeless Question* Where can customers find Ben Rich Clothing and how can they contact you for any further questions? 

We can be found everywhere on the so-nets so find us on Twitter, Facebook, MySpace and YouTube. We are always available at http://benrichclothing.com. Customers can also call us at (512)745-7089.

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

I would just like to say thanks to Justin Burns and http://www.timelesstyles.blogspot.com for a great Q&A session and featuring Ben Rich Clothing Company.

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

Q&A With DL Maclin CEO & Founder of Adonai® Signature Clothing

OMG Timeless is this another in Q&A, I believe it is :)

*Timeless Question* Thanks for taking the time to do this Q&A. Can you introduce yourself and tell us a little bit about your line?


My name is DL Maclin. 


*Timeless Question* Adonai  Signature Clothing, is a brand, how do you define a brand? 


Well I define Adonai Signature Clothing as Powerful timeless memorable and will stay on the minds of those that love the brand. 

*Timeless Question* When did you realize creating a clothing was something you wanted to make a career? 

I realized that I wanted to make fashion my career when I got into the business and I liked it.

*Timeless Question* I love your design patterns, what inspired them? 

Well the inspiration behind my line was to do something different in fashion that stood for something and meant so much more then what we see in fashion today.

*Timeless Question* How do you know whats up to date style wise and does that have an impact on your designs? 

Well I know whats in and whats not but I don't really follow trends we're trying to set one... I stay with what in but we just give you more variety!

*Timeless Question* As of right now what accomplishments are you most proud of? 

Well to be real I'm most proud of seeing something that was just a vision... and just knowing that there are people in other cities and countries that like what we're doing 

*Timeless Question* On your website you seem to be spreading a positive message, what is that message exactly? 

That message is that you can still be cool, fly, sexy and classy but still rep a brand for the Lord! and also to let people know that God is cool so why can't he have a cool clothing line.   

*Timeless Question* Is Adonai Signature Clothing your only occupation or is there something else you do on the side? 

Yes there is I'm a Carpenter like Jesus was, I'm good with my hands... I don't have one set thing that I can do.

*Timeless Question* I always like to ask designers what lines do they like or wear besides their own. What brands are on your radar? 

I'm not going to label drop but I rock what looks good on me at that time.

 

*Timeless Question* Black Friday is today how do you prepare for such a shopping frenzy day? 

Lol well I don't really get into it but I read the fine print on some of the items people want are limited 10 or less.

*Timeless Question* What are your immediate goals and some of your long term goals? 

My long term goals is to see my collection hanging with some of the top notch brands... my short term goals is to be in stores real soon. 

*Timeless Question* Can you give some advice to the up and coming entrepreneurs? 

My advice to up and coming entrepreneurs.... know your craft what every you want to be in life grind hard.. first in last out. 

*Timeless Question* Where can customers find your line and how can they contact you? 

To all fans... they can go to www.adonaibrand.com to find me they can click on the links on the site and they also can find me on twitter @adonaibrand or on facebook

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

well I first like to say thanks for taking the time out to talk with me... I'm glad you like the brand also If  you don't see our brand in the stores in your city please go talk to the Owner or Manager at your local retailers.. tell them to check out the site, and get Adonai Signature Clothing in their store... also I like to say thanks to you all out there for tuning in to www.adonaibrand.com and last be on the lookout for more things coming from us in the near future. Stay Blessed!

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

Q&A With Saydahli Owner of Era Clothing

Another Timeless Q&A  


*Timeless Question* Can you tell everyone who you are and introduce your line? 

Hi! My name is Saydahli, but you can call me Saydi for short! And I'm the owner of Era Clothing.

*Timeless Question* What are some challenges you faced at the start and some you face now?

Coming into the business with no experience definitely has its challenges. To this day, I'm still learning something new everyday. It makes my day more interesting and spontaneous. It took several months to get everything today and lay it all out. Having friends with independent businesses and asking for tips definitely made it worth while. As of now, it is a bit difficult to keep up with everything and constantly updating. But I do it for the love of my customers and you!

*Timeless Question* How did you come up with your logo and what does it symbolize?

My designer, Edgar, came up with the concept! The keys in the logo represent opening new doors for new opportunities, there are 7 stars representing my favorite number, and arches off to the side just give it a little edge. 

*Timeless Question* Where does your drive and passion come from?

Independence and individuality. I think owning your own business says alot about a person's character. I'm a big person when it comes to clothes and fashion. Don't believe me? Ask my best friends! I wanted to do something a bit different that I normally won't wear and so far I'm loving it!

*Timeless Question* Could you please describe the feeling you had when you saw your first prototype?

I WAS ECSTATIC! It was such a rush, kinda like a high. I was so happy and anxious to show to my audience.

*Timeless Question* Did you ever imagine as a kid that you would have your own brand of clothing?

Never! I wanted to become a doctor, meteorologist, cook, teacher, and so much more! I guess as you age and become wiser, you become more aware of your options. I decided to go with what I love doing, and that's being an independent business owner.

*Timeless Question* Is it difficult to come up with new designs every season?

I don't try following the whole "season" trend. Especially, since I just started off, it's very difficult to come up with alot of concepts and ideas for every season. Plus, its a lot of work and financially I'm not ready to start doing "season" lines.. yet!

*Timeless Question* Who was the first person that helped you along the way and how did they do so?

My Mom. She was so supportive in everything. This wouldn't have been possible at all without her help. She helped me gather all my materials, contact the right people, and manage my inventory.

*Timeless Question* There are a million different lines out there, how is Era Clothing different from the next?

Coming from a small town in deep south Texas, I'd want to be an inspiration and role model to others. I'm doing this solely with hard earned money, no loans, no borrowed money. I want to teach kids that you can do what you love, you just have to try and believe. I try to spread positive vibes as much as I can, changing the world one shirt at a time.

*Timeless Question* How do brands go from being small to sitting on shelves in stores like Macy's?  

I believe that it takes alot of dedication and hard work. The more you push your product, the more it'll get better recognized. You'd want to have an open mind when coming into the business and reach your target audience.

*Timeless Question* Do you have any advice to give entrepreneurs leaning towards creating their own line?

Come with an open-mind! Don't be afraid to try new things, it's definitely a trial and error business. You'll definitely learn where you most fit comfortable at. Never say never.

*Timeless Question* Finally where can we find your line and where can people get in contact with you? 

I have a website up at www.eraclothing.bigcartel.com! If you have any questions, please e-mail me at eraclothingcompany@yahoo.com. Have a Twitter? Tweet at us www.twitter.com/eraclothing. "Like" us on Facebookwww.facebook.com/eraclothing. Tumblr users can find us here at www.eraclothing.tumblr.com! Thanks! x

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

Q&A with Gaius Monteyro of Defam|Nation

"When success sleeps I will do the same!" Timeless Q&A

*Timeless Question* Just to help the readers connect with you and your line can you please introduce yourself and talk a little bit about Defam|Nation?


My name is Gaius Monteyro, and I oversee development for the brand Defam|Nation. The brand started back in Summer 09 with it's original name Defamation Nation. Our focus was to highlight individual aspects of the culture that had flaws with society. The brands forthcoming release is scheduled for the 2nd week of December which showcases a few button ups, a range of head wear including beanies, 5 panels, snap backs, and cable knits, also included are scarves, crew necks, tees and hooded sweatshirts.  

*Timeless Question* Can you sum up the challenges you faced creating the line a note some of the difficulties you face regularly?

Designing and creating new products are always in rotation but the issue from the gate was finances. I started the brand with a full time job and saved enough to come out with the first run of designs, progressively moving through units the demand locally was inclining where I ended up opening and running my own screen printing a production space. But with that came more expenses, on top of materials, marketing strategies, outsourcing, there was rent. So the idea was to structure a team of individuals who had the same focus. Shit was not easy being from Northern Mass/Southern NH where the market was way behind on ideas and overall the people just didn't get it. But after seeing people come and go we've finally cemented a solid camp that has improved and help develop the brand. 

*Timeless Question* What are some of the ways you promote Defam|Nation? 

We have many marketing strategies but the most effective is to connect with others doing similar things, attending tradeshows, and remaining humble. The relationships you build can elevate your doings with greatness. And the consistency you provide will eventually spark more with the consumers. 

*Timeless Question* How did Defam|Nation get its name and logo?

We have a few core logos but the one that we use for branding the most came while at the drawing board for preliminary designs. The leaves used represents the fall of society and the changing of times. Defam|Nation means to overthrow higher forms of society, using what they have spoken negatively and turning it against them.  

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

There a times where I procrastinate with designs, which is not saying I don't have designs sitting there, because I do but once I start some a design I tend to let it sit for a few, come back at it and take in the experiences or inspirations I've had those few days then go at it again. I have hard drives full of designs, but timing is everything when it comes to releasing. Certain times are just not right for some of the ideas we want to showcase, but eventually they all will unfold. 

*Timeless Question* How would a young designer go about getting their line in stores? 

We've worked with a number of boutiques and retailers but we've seen a lot that just wasn't the right fit for the brand. We've come to terms that it's not about the number of retailers you have its the type you build with. Once we settle on a shop, we campaign with the shop and form a strong relationship. Gaining trust isn't just personal to us but we use it in business. It's not about the money, it's about the reliability and gaining the right grounds. 

*Timeless Question* Does Defam|Nation have a target audience? 

We don't set up ourselves saying, ok this is who we have to sell too, but typically the individual who is into the brand usually is involved in the similar influences and inspirations. Defam is not a brand I can see everyone wearing however, which I am fine with. 

*Timeless Question* We all know black friday is today how do you prepare for it and is it as crazy for you as it is for the buyers?

Ha, I know I was out for some of it. But honestly we hardly had time to get ready for it so we just have our past offering available for huge discount exclusively through our online retailer's The Freshstock. (www.thefreshstock.com)

*Timeless Question* Your brand seems to have a different urban appeal, can you talk a little bit about how your line is different?

Most of the graphics tend to have the same sinister aesthetic behind the fold. But still relatable within the same markets that many cultures tap into. You can carry the raw appeal and keeping it clean, depending on one's personality. 

*Timeless Question* What can we expect from Defam|Nation in the years to come?

Consistency.

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

That's honestly for one to realize on their own, someones mistake could also be their greatest accomplishment.

*Timeless Question* Lastly where can Defam|Nation be found and how can customers get in touch with you for any inquiries? 

We could be found in select retailers(view our list through our website)  and through our online store. All inquiries please email contact@defamnation.com

Take a look at their latest gear! 

Winter 10 Part 1 Lookbook-http://vimeo.com/16752312

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

Clothes 4 Cures Q&A With The Owner LaShondra White

Working round the clock to please you all. Heres yet another Q&A!

*Timeless Question* I would like to say Clothing 4 Cures deserves to be a worldwide recognized brand. Now that I've said my piece could you please inform everyone who you are and tell us a little about your line? 

My name is LaShondra White and I am from Detroit, Michigan. Clothes 4 Cures is a new t-shirt company, started this past year. Our mission is to sell a HOT graphic t-shirt and donate a portion of all sales to HIV/AIDS awareness. We have contacted the Until There's A Cure Foundation and we are working with them through their Partnership Program.


*Timeless Question* This is the first time I've come across a line like yours. Where did you get the idea from?  

When you are faced with certain challenges in life you have to find a way to cope and deal with reality. Clothes 4 Cures was created as my way to deal with a situation close to me. 

*Timeless Question* Who are the people behind the scenes making this brand possible?  


I am the President of the company and I also oversee all the designs that are printed are the t-shirts. I have a working relationship with Three Nineteen Marketing & PR from Bloomfield Hills, Michigan and I also work with Dino Mangano Photography from Mt. Clemens, Michigan. I also have a great group of models, (Justin, Nikki, Fatima, and Patrick), and MUA's, (Marni Barnes and Minx Glamour Make-Up), that help to bring my t-shirts and photos to life. 


*Timeless Question* How long has Clothing 4 Cures been around?  

The company was started this past year in March with the help of SCORE, SBA, and the local FastTrac Program for entrepreneurs. 


*Timeless Question* Its obvious to recognize what separates your line from the others but how are your designs different? 

I try to display graphics that are "eye catching and memorable." I like details to be displayed in the graphics. 


*Timeless Question* I saw on your site a percent of every item purchased goes to a foundation can you talk a little bit about the foundation?  

The organization that I decided to partner with is called the Until There's A Cure Foundation. They help to spread awareness on a local and national level. If you are interested in finding out how you can help with their efforts visit:  http://utac.org/  Nora, my contact at Until There's A Cure, has been very supportive of all my efforts. 

*Timeless Question* Out of all the foundations to choose from why this particular one?  

When I was doing my research, I liked the bracelets that Until There's A Cure uses to keep HIV/AIDS awareness of a person's mind, as well as some of the work they have been involved in. They have also had a good amount of well known figures to come out and support them by volunteering and doing PSA'S for the foundation. Nora was also very receptive and supportive to my idea. 


*Timeless Question* Do you host events to make people aware of your message and clothing line, if so where and when?  


Currently, I am working with Three Nineteen Marketing & PR to host some events in the greater Detroit area. I am also in talks with a PR firm in NYC to host some events and do some branding there. 

*Timeless Question* How can someone be sure that the money they spend is going to good use?  

You can contact Nora from the Until There's A Cure Foundation, http://utac.org/  I have been actively staying in touch with Nora to keep them informed of my progress.  

*Timeless Question* Is there anyway a regular person can get involved with your line or help out in someway?  

The best thing that a person can do is to make sure that they "KNOW THEIR STATUS!" You can also visit out company website at: www.clothes4cures.us  Be sure to click on our links at the bottom of the website to follow us on Facebook, and Twitter. We have a company Blog at: www.clothes4cures.wordpress.com  You can also find us on YouTube. Follow us. Like us. Subscribe to us. Spread the word. Buy a t-shirt. 

*Timeless Question* Probably one of my favorite questions to ask, Whats next for Clothing 4 Cures?  

A lot of working with the PR firms and staying active to brand Clothes 4 Cures. 


*Timeless Question* Where can people buy Clothing 4 Cures and how can they contact you if they would like to know more about the line?  


The t-shirts are available online at:www.clothes4cures.us You can reach us via email at: General@clothes4cures.us


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

As always: "Clothes 4 Cures appreciates your support. KNOW YOUR STATUS!"


LaShondra W. White
President - Clothes 4 Cures
"Have A Great Day!" 
Website: http://clothes4cures.us
Blog: http://clothes4cures.wordpress.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/clothes4cures
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Clothes-4-Cures-T-Shirt-Company/131939730188511?v=app_112078882147346&ref=sgm
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/clothes4cures


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

  

Q&A With Julian Donaldson the Founder of Geniuz Ink

Timeless back again to bring you yet another Q&A like I said I would!

*Timeless Question* Could you tell us a little bit about yourself and Geniuz Ink for all the readers who haven't heard of the brand before?  

Geniuz Ink is a brand out of Denver, Colorado and we started back in January 2009 when I (Julian Donaldson the founder) was in school and printing out designs through a local printer there. I decided that I wanted to do this full time for a job so I began building a brand. We are still young but we have a very mature feel to everything we do, our website and all designs are created in house. We have a passion for urban couture, graphic design, and creativity.

*Timeless Question* I just visited your website and the background is very futuristic, which I have to say I do like, is that the style of Geniuz Ink?

I wouldn’t necessarily say we are a futuristic type brand, we have a respect for the old principles of graphic design but we do like to have a contemporary or modern feel. I am a technical geek I love apple, windows 7, and newegg.com, some of that inspiration can be seen in our design. The background of the site has changed time and time again and when it was being built it changed 40 times before I settled.

*Timeless Question* When did you fall in love with fashion and decide this is what you wanted to do?

I have always loved fashion and style and I have always had an east coast demeanor, I used to visit NY every summer and some winters. I would see the local brands there and have to buy things from them, some of my older clothes were from start up brands in NY like my own. I really loved that scene, I knew I wanted to be a graphic designer from the minute I stepped into high school. In college I realized art doesn’t pay most people, I loved graphic design but hate corporate designing, and a typical design firm was going to be very hard to work at right out of school. So I made the decision at the beginning of that January and released my first set of tees Heartless and Mindless printed on a Gildan Poly/Cotton 50/50. It is the baggiest shirt I own haha!

*Timeless Question* As the owner what is an average day for you and a hectic day?

Being the owner my days are less than hectic I don’t stress about much, I am easy going but I am working because I am not at the point in the company where I can fully fund my life through Geniuz Ink, going out, eating, bills etc...But it is a long day wake up at 7 work a design job 8:30-5:30, workout typically since I have been sitting and eating all day at work, then come home and design late into the night. I am an insomniac like many designers I will design from 9-2 or 3 in the morning and wake up and do it again. I take Friday and Saturday off to do other things that keep me sane.

*Timeless Question* Knowing that it is Black Friday, does your schedule change at all?

My schedule changed today, with this interview . I still freelance a lot and I have been working on some flyers for a friend/promoter, I have been putting together quotes for the winter line coming this January, and I have been packing orders today is hectic. I am supposed to drop off some shirts to one of my retailers, and get dinner at 7 with a good friend. So much for a day off! No time for rest.

*Timeless Question* Can you describe some of your influences to help you create Geniuz?

My main influences are my weird mind. I draw inspiration from other artists, but I definitely have my own feel. My family is my biggest influence for my design we have so much crazy stuff we talk about, especially my sister and I always draw and sketch designs from them. Also everyone in the indie land of shirts inspires me daily to be better than the next because there are definitely people doing bigger things than me but I want to be running head to head with them. I don’t back down from anyone especially in the design community. Its healthy and super friendly competition.

*Timeless Question* How do you go about promoting Geniuz Ink to customers and stores?

Word of mouth. I took some notes from Johnny Cupcakes, create a brand, don’t rush, and produce quality. It will be seen. Always walk with a business card.

*Timeless Question* There are an abundant amount of clothing lines out there, how does Geniuz Ink differ from them?

There are an abundance of clothing lines but what I have come to realize many people will do it for a year and get frustrated from lack of money and/or bored and give up. We are here to stay. We want to have the best line in Denver, Nationwide, Worldwide, and in the Universe. I assume there are aliens that make clothes some where. We always will be designing until I can’t see my computer.

We also will be working with local schools on collaborations. More info to come, there are some in our Look book that we did. We can’t spoil the full release just yet.

*Timeless Question* What are some of the adversities you had to overcome creating your line?

The risk of losing all of my money, the risk of people hating my brand, screwing up orders, getting orders out late, forgetting business cards, rushing on designs, rushing on stationary and branding, credit card, complaints about a shirt, messing up scarves time and time again, learning to sew, deciding what people want, and ultimately building a customer base and fan base...The list goes on though...

*Timeless Question* Is there anything you can share with everyone looking to get involved in the clothing business?

I am still learning and when your done learning your done growing. My main piece of advice is people will ask you for things, “Yo hook me up with a shirt” So you have to separate your business and personal life as much as possible. For me my business is a big part of my personal life since its just me and a new partner of mine. You will lose money you will give away free shirts but when you do make sure the loss is a future gain. For me nearly everything I have given away has been a plus. It has helped market and build. I just donated some shirts to my long time friend for a charity event at a local Sushi Bar and she is forever grateful and has sent me more customers then I could even have found on my own.

*Timeless Question* Can you take us through the process of a design on paper to the finished product?

 

A lot of the design process is different for each design,

My Mona Lisa shirt started as a google search that landed me on a monster shot of Da Vincis masterpiece. I had a fitted hat that was new and was joking how it would be funny if people wore hats. That sprung a design I threw it together in couple days and had a solid design. At first the hat had a Rockies symbol on it but I didn’t know if the Rockies would be mad I have their logo on my shirt. It is kind of illegal so I redesigned the hate if you look close there is a Geniuz ink logo. I had pics of the Colorado skyline and thought it’d be a nice fit. There are some other details that I added so it wasn’t just Mona with a fitted.

My other designs like the Until Death Shirt stemmed from one of my figure drawing classes we had to learn how to draw skulls, and I had the image I drew laying around, I said this would be cool as vector art and started tracing I was listening to some song and a lyric until death do us part came in and it clicked that it would be awesome with a skull and headphones. My inspiration is always random.

Last night I woke up and said my logo shirt isn’t going to be a typical logo shirt I am gonna get wild on the design for it I woke up and started sketching. We have definitely stepped our game up and we have been kind of boring with our typography and our new shirts will be showing our love for the art. We will still have our style but it will definitely be spruced up. Shout out to Jeff Sheldon at Ugmonk.com for putting together such brilliant type faces and inspiring me to hit the sketch book even more.

*Timeless Question* Where can customers find Geniuz Ink and how can they reach you if need be?

Customers can find Geniuz Ink at Geniuzink.com we update our blog regularly and always have some good things on it. We are on Facebook geniuz ink (lower case) and on twitter.com/geniuzink, we rarely use myspace and will be deleting it off our site. Last if you are in the Colorado area stop in at Division West they carry some of our shirts to, located at 3rd and Clayton, in Denver .

Email me for any questions julian@geniuzink.com or info@geniuzink.com

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

Thanks for the interview sorry for talking so much! Geniuz Ink – Embellish Creativity!

-Julian

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