Why Can't we Help One Another.....

Hi Fashion Lovers, 

So often people come to me telling me that they are looking for ways to start their own company or asking for advice on how to expand their brand or whatever creative business they have. IF I can help I always do or I give solid advice on WHO actually can help them!! Why do I do that you ask.. I do it because why not.. I needed help, I STILL need help from people and helping someone else won't hurt my come up. To me their is room for EVERYONE!! 

Ironically overall in my entire 16 year career I haven't gotten the most help from my own people. I always get the best advice from other people in the industry. Even if its quick advice its sound advice. I haven't yet found my business mentor but just from my track record alone I don't think it will be a person of color. I do believe that you have to help yourself before anyone else can but too many african american business people seem to think as soon as you can no longer further their moment they can't help you with yours (at least in my experience). 

I strive to give the best of myself and my company in all that I represent when it comes to my brand but mistakes are made; This is how you learn & grow so why can't we do it together? 

Speak on it Fashion Lovers... Am I the only one to experience this? 

Fashionably Yours, 

ImaniLia 

Time to Raise Funds

Putting my Pride aside I took the time out to start a public fundraiser to help aid in factory production of my next line due in February. Some close friends and family have helped me privately over the last few months and I truly appreciate it but I can't do it alone!! So to all of you that wanted to & can help please do!! I appreciate it 200%. Heres the link and spread the word. 

Check the tab titled "ImaniLia Fundraiser" on the home page for more details as well we all need each other and every little bit counts so thank you so so much!!  

Photo by Nay Marie
Model Dominika F.

Photo by Nay Marie
Model Robin Sienne

Photo by Nay Marie
Model Dominika F.

The direct link is : http://www.razoo.com/br/causes/Building-Andamp-Branding-Imanilia-Fashions

Thank You in Advance!!

Fashionably Yours, 

ImaniLia

All It Takes...

Last night I spent time updating blogs, checking my various email accounts, prepping for my upcoming photo shoot next weekend, going over budgets, paying bills etc.. and I got to thinking of what all this (owning, operating, & managing your own brand) takes & you know what......It's A LOT its no wonder as a One Woman Show I can't always get it all done but i'm going to keep trying until as they say the wheels fall off.

As an independent emerging designer with no trust fund or rich family members by my side this is a list of all I'm juggling daily. I used to have an assistant & a publicist but having that outside help costs money I could no longer afford so now it's all me. Here's a list of what I try to maintain daily... 

• 2 Twitter Accounts (1 personal, 1 business) 
• A Facebook Fan page 
• A personal Facebook page 
• A tumblr blog 
• This blog 
• A monthly newsletter 
• Birthday Incentives for Previous Clients 
• An Instagram Account
• Keep my website Updated 
• A Linked In Account 
• A Pinterest Account 
• Finding shows worth doing
• Finding interview opportunities & speaking engagements 
• Maintaining client work 
• Setting up promotional shoots, videos etc 
• Building new collections 
• Working with various Stylists 
• Maintaining an online Store & trying to get buyers 

This is a conservative list i'm sure i'm missing something(s) BUT I'm doing all this while working 40+ hours a week as a shoe designer. Attempting & failing miserably at being outgoing & social both personally & professionally, finding time & money in there somewhere to sleep, eat, meditate (HA I wish!), spend time with family blah blah bah.... 

Now don't get me wrong I'm not complaining this is just A LOT to maintain alone. Am I wrong? But I have passion & determination so I'll get it all done. I honestly can't afford much of a personal life because these things aren't free. Anyone who has a small business knows you put out a lot before you see any return & I'm ok with that. 

Everytime I reach a personal goal within ImaniLia Fashions it's all worth it. Like this rebranding process that is coming together. I will find an investor by 2014 or sooner!! (You have to speak these things into existence)

So thank you all for your continued support and listening ears. Your patience and understanding. Your kind words and warm hearts. Day by day all i'm trying to do is grow and serve you better.

ImaniLia :D