Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in clothing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with MarLan Parker, Owner of Get Laced Laces, located in San Bernardino, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a custom shoelace and apparel brand. Our focus is to provide the ultimate upgrade to a pair of sneakers, inspirational shoelaces. We have in-stock statement laces with phrases such as "GOD FIRST," "SNEAKERHEAD," and "UNSTOPPABLE," as well as an option to create your own laces with the phrase, logo or design of your choice. Our customers are sneakerheads and athletes who are interested in being unique and having their sneakers stand out!
Tell us about yourself
We started on this journey in 2019 with a desire to create inspirational shoelaces for the local youth AAU team. The goal is to provide the players with laces that would inspire them throughout their athletic journeys. Since then, we have been fortunate to provide laces to sneakerheads, high school sports programs, and professional athletes. Each day we're motivated by our mantra, Be Unique, Be Bold, and Be You. This philosophy exemplifies all that we do at Get Laced Laces. The grind is a long one, and our team is prepared for it each day, motivated to do what is necessary to give sneakerheads what they need to be as unique as they can be.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment up to this point was receiving an opportunity to partner with a store called Sole Folks from Leimert Park. For those who do not know, Leimert Park is an area of Los Angeles that houses numerous Black-Owned businesses and storefronts. We were able to connect with them and foster that relationship, which ultimately led to us having our laces within their store. That was major for us! We have always wanted to have our brand presence within that community.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Building a team. Without a team, the business can only go so far. Last year we brought on a highly creative individual named Reggie, who has assisted us in pushing the brand forward. He currently serves as the Director of Sales and Marketing. Also, we brought on some new blood to assist us with the email and SMS marketing aspects of the business, which has caused us to flourish in these areas. Prior to this point, we struggled to bring people into the fold. We lost money, got hustled, received poor performance from agencies, etc. Now that the team is working towards a common goal, I am excited to see what we can cook up.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
The first tip is to just start. You will never have enough time or money to get things going. The best time to start is right now with what you have. Second, carefully construct a team to assist you along the way. Third, never give up. You could be one sale away from the big break. Keep going!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://getlacedlaces.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GetLacedLaces/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getlaced._/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/principalpthemc
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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