I have always known that being an entrepreneur was the path I wanted to take from a young age. Life had its twists and turns, from being a single teen mom to working for companies and experiencing professional burnout. Enough was enough. I wanted to do what I loved: help people as myself love themselves, feel beautiful from the inside and the outside, and most importantly, target plus-size women.

Entrepreneurship is a challenging path with many different possible directions, but my decision was driven by a deep passion for freedom and a desire to create positive change. I craved the freedom to make my own decisions, to innovate, and to build something meaningful from the ground up. The corporate world, while providing stability, often felt restrictive and unfulfilling. I wanted to break free from those constraints and carve out a space where I could truly make a difference.

Starting my own business allowed me to focus on a mission close to my heart: empowering plus-size women to embrace their beauty and confidence. I knew that by creating a supportive and inclusive environment, I could help others feel seen, valued, and beautiful. This passion, combined with the drive to overcome the obstacles I faced, propelled me into entrepreneurship. It is not an easy journey, but it is one that brings immense fulfillment, and the freedom to turn my vision into reality.

LAEDA: Why did you choose your industry?

As a plus-size woman, I felt the market was saturated with, honest to God, the ugliest clothes for us. It was as if the fashion industry wanted us to cover up and blend in with the couch, and I could not stand for it any longer. Why not open a store specifically dedicated to plus-size women, where they have a place to comfortably shop, and where they feel loved and appreciated?

Choosing this industry was a deeply personal decision for me. It stemmed from my own experiences and frustrations with the limited and often unflattering options available for plus-size women. I wanted to create a space where plus-size women could find stylish, beautiful clothing that made them feel confident and celebrated. My goal was to challenge the outdated norms and stereotypes and offer a fresh, empowering perspective on fashion for plus-size women.

By opening a store dedicated to plus-size fashion, I aimed to provide not just clothing, but a sense of community and acceptance. I wanted to be part of a movement that redefines beauty standards and ensures that every woman, regardless of her size, feels beautiful and confident. This industry choice allowed me to combine my entrepreneurial spirit with my passion for fashion and my commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of plus-size women.

LAEDA: Tell me about your experience while attending WBA. What have the major takeaways been from the program? Have you had any “Ah-ha!” moments? How did the program help you?

Attending the Women’s Business Academy (WBA) has been an incredibly transformative experience for me. The program provided a wealth of knowledge and practical skills, but more importantly, it offered a supportive community of like-minded women who are passionate about making a difference through their entrepreneurial ventures.

The major takeaways from the program have been the importance of resilience, the power of networking, and the value of slowing down to reflect. One of the most significant “Ah-ha!” moments for me was realizing that entrepreneurship is not just about having a great idea, but about perseverance and adaptability in the face of challenges.

Jamila used to tell me all the time, “Creatina, just slow down and take a step back, the answer will come to you.” When I say I hear that in my head every single time I get flustered about anything, I mean it. I did not realize until that moment that most times, we already know the answer or at least know where to look, but because we are emotional, we cannot see it. This advice has been invaluable, reminding me to stay calm and trust my instincts.

The WBA program helped me hone my business acumen and gave me the confidence to pursue my vision. It provided me with tools and strategies to navigate the complexities of running a business, and the mentorship and camaraderie I found there have been instrumental in my journey.

LAEDA: Tell me about your journey on the road to business start-up. What have been some of the challenges, successes, failures, etc.?

My journey on the road to business start-up has been a whirlwind of challenges, successes, and invaluable lessons. The path has not been easy, but it has been incredibly rewarding.

One of the biggest challenges has been finding staff that actually want to work on a project that makes a difference. It is not just about filling positions; it is about finding individuals who share the same passion and dedication to our mission. I have learned that building a strong, committed team is crucial, and sometimes it takes time to find the right people who are truly invested in the cause.

Another significant challenge has been securing funding to help expand our business. Navigating the world of finance, from understanding different funding options to pitching to potential investors, has been a steep learning curve. However, these experiences have taught me resilience and the importance of persistence.

Despite these challenges, there have been many successes along the way. Every milestone, no matter how small, has been a victory. From the first customer who walked through our doors to the positive feedback from clients who feel empowered and beautiful because of our services, these moments reaffirm why I started this journey in the first place.

Failures have also been part of the process. Each setback has provided valuable lessons and opportunities for growth. I have learned to view failures not as defeats but as stepping stones toward improvement and success. They have made me more adaptable and better prepared for future challenges.

Overall, the journey has been a blend of highs and lows, but each experience has strengthened my resolve and passion for what I do. It has been a testament to the power of vision, hard work, and unwavering commitment to making a difference.

LAEDA: Could you tell me a little about where your business is today?

Currently, JEAMANI is still located within the Berlin Mart. We are actively exploring avenues to expand into a bigger location, which will allow us to offer a wider range of sizes and manufacture our own clothing line. Additionally, we are looking to expand into men’s wear and kids’ wear, broadening our reach and ensuring that everyone in the family can find stylish, comfortable clothing that makes them feel confident and beautiful.

Our journey is ongoing, and we are excited about the future. The expansion plans are driven by the desire to better serve our community and continue our mission of providing inclusive, fashionable options for plus-size individuals and beyond. Each step we take is a move towards creating a more inclusive and empowering shopping experience for all.

LAEDA: Do you have any advice for future (or existing) entrepreneurs?

1. Follow Your Passion: Ensure your business is something you genuinely care about. Passion will keep you motivated during tough times and inspire you to overcome obstacles.

2. Be Resilient: Entrepreneurship is a rollercoaster ride with highs and lows. Stay resilient and do not let setbacks discourage you. Learn from failures and use them as stepping-stones to success.

3. Build a Strong Team: Surround yourself with people who share your vision and are committed to your mission. A strong, dedicated team is essential for achieving your business goals.

4. Stay Flexible: Be open to change and willing to adapt. The business landscape is constantly evolving, and flexibility will help you navigate unexpected challenges and seize new opportunities.

5. Prioritize Customer Experience: Your customers are the heart of your business. Listen to their feedback, understand their needs, and strive to provide exceptional service. A satisfied customer base will drive your success.

6. Network and Seek Mentorship: Connect with other entrepreneurs, attend industry events, and seek out mentors who can provide guidance and support. Learning from others’ experiences can be incredibly valuable.

7. Manage Finances Wisely: Keep a close eye on your finances, plan your budget carefully, and explore various funding options. Financial stability is crucial for long-term success.

8. Stay Focused on Your Vision: Keep your end goals in mind and stay true to your vision. It is easy to be sidetracked, but maintaining focus will help you make decisions that align with your core values and objectives.

9. Take Care of Yourself: Entrepreneurship can be demanding. Ensure you take time for self-care to avoid burnout. A healthy work-life balance will keep you energized and productive.

10. Embrace Continuous Learning: The business world is ever changing, so stay curious and keep learning. Whether through formal education, reading, or practical experience, continuous learning will help you stay ahead.

Remember, the journey of entrepreneurship is unique for everyone. Stay true to yourself, remain persistent, and never lose sight of why you started. Good luck!

More about JEAMANI-Your Destination for Plus-Size Fashion:

JEAMANI is proud to be the only exclusively plus-size clothing retailer in New Jersey with a physical location. Located at 41 Clementon Road, Berlin, NJ 08009, we offer a wide range of stylish and trendy clothing, handbags, shoes, jewelry, sunglasses, and more. Our mission is to provide a comfortable and welcoming shopping experience for plus-size women, ensuring they feel beautiful and confident in every piece they wear.

Creatina Phillips can be reached at:

– Facebook/Instagram: Jeamani (FB) and JEAMANI (IG)
– Website: http://www.jeamani.com
– Phone: 856-689-0815
– Email: support@jeamani.com

Store Location:
41 Clementon Road STE 232
Berlin, NJ 08009

Hours of Operation:
– Thursday and Friday: 12pm to 5pm
– Saturday: 12pm to 6pm
– Sunday: 12pm to 4pm

Visit us to explore our exclusive collections and find the perfect pieces that make you feel confident and stylish!

About the Women’s Business Academy (WBA):

The Women’s Business Academy (WBA) is a free, nine-week business skills training course offered in Camden, NJ in the Spring and Fall each year. Qualified entrepreneurs receive 72+ hours of training from industry professionals, business planning, and continued technical assistance. Apply online at www.LAEDA.com.