The Journey
Sometimes I think back to the early days of LOVE DOT—the late nights, the optimism, the “I’ll figure it out” energy that carried me through.
Entrepreneurship is romanticized as freedom, but the truth? It’s often you vs. your doubts.
As someone balancing a corporate career and a mission-driven creative business, there were many days I wondered if I should just focus on one path. But a recent conversation with a friend reminded me that growth often starts with reflection.
So here’s what I wish I had done differently when I started—and what I’m doing differently now.
1. Trust Your Original Vision
When I started LOVE DOT, my heart was in design—bold prints, handcrafted textiles, and fashion rooted in culture. But I let fear steer me toward something “safer”: a curated marketplace of handmade goods.
It sounded smart, but it required inventory I couldn’t afford and didn’t ignite my soul.
If I could go back, I’d lean into my intuition sooner.
“Credibility isn’t granted—it’s built through consistency and courage.”
2. Leverage Your Network Early
In the beginning, I stayed quiet. I worried about being judged or misunderstood.
But I’ve learned that if you don’t believe in your idea loudly, you can’t expect others to.
Now, I’m bolder. I talk about my brand, share my story, and ask for help. Because visibility is part of the work—and the right people can only find you if you let them see you.
3. Define and Protect Your Story
At its core, LOVE DOT isn’t just about clothes—it’s about connection. I design for men and women moving through the world with intention, creating pieces born out of history, culture, and craftsmanship.
But it took me years to articulate that clearly.
Now, I protect the story. Every collection, post, and partnership must reinforce that mission:
“To reimagine African design through a global lens of purpose and pride.”
4. Be Wiser About Debt
Here’s the practical truth: I took on too much business debt too soon.
I assumed early growth would be faster because I’d seen how big brands scale. But startup math doesn’t work that way.
Profit on paper doesn’t always translate to cash flow when you’re paying off credit.
If I could start again, I’d stay scrappier longer and separate good debt (strategic investment) from ego debt (spending to look the part).
5. Build a Financial Cushion for Freedom
The dream is to go full time—but freedom requires a financial foundation.
Today, I’m mapping three buckets:
-
Operating: what keeps the business running
-
Growth: what fuels expansion and marketing
-
Security: what ensures I’m personally stable when the paycheck stops
Entrepreneurship demands risk—but smart risk. That’s what I’m learning to master.
The Biggest Lesson
Building something meaningful takes time, money, and resilience. But more than anything—it takes belief.
Belief that your voice matters.
Belief that slow growth still counts.
Belief that even when it’s hard, you’re still building something that will outlast the doubt.
If you’re early in your journey, start where your conviction is strongest.
Everything else will follow.
