Meet Rachel Hawkins: Business Owner, MBA

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rachel Hawkins and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rachel, as a parent, what do you feel is the most meaningful thing you’ve done for them?
As a parent to a four-year-old, the most important thing I have done as a parent is showing my son that he can achieve and reach any dream, he might have if he continues to stay consistent, make a plan, and don’t give up no matter the challenges he will face. For the past two years, I attended graduate school at Texas Woman’s University while having a full-time job, running my own business (Fly Guyz Clothing Company), and being a mom to my four-year-old. My goal was always to attend graduate school to further my education in business and advancing my career. There were many late nights and missed events, but I continued to remind myself of my goal that I was reaching and my son, who was watching me obtain this goal. My son saw that I never gave up and stayed focused on my tasks in completing my degree. I will graduate this coming May 2021 with a Master’s in Business Administration with an emphasis in Healthcare Administration, and I am proud of myself for consistently reaching this goal. I made sure my son understood, even at the age of four, that pursuing your dreams or goals is obtainable as long as you stay focused and continue to push through all the challenges. By watching me during a very challenging and busy time of my life, my son started to imitate what I was doing in his classes by becoming more focused and never giving up when he did not understand a lesson. He continued to be persistent in completing his tasks. As a parent, your kids are watching your every move, and you have to be an example when facing life challenges. Also, be an example in showing your children there are no dreams too big to obtain.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I believe my 15+ years of customer service experience and my 10+ years of marketing and project management experience set me apart from others. I currently work full-time as a Client Relationship Manager for a Management Consulting company here in Houston and have been with the company for 7+ years. I have experience working with customers from all industries and strive to make sure my service exceeds their expectations. I have worked on multiple freelance projects as a Marketing Manager for a few small businesses in the Houston area, managing their social media marketing and creating marketing materials for their business. I also have 5+ years of retail experience, which has helped me learn how to work with customers in the apparel retail sector. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Business Marketing and a Master’s degree in Business Administration. I have grown where I am professionally by continuing to push myself outside of my comfort zone. By challenging yourself, I believe it helps you develop confidence, grow into your personality and gain new skills and knowledge. This was not an easy task to push myself outside of my comfort zone, but in the end, it was rewarding. I gained new skills, became a better person, and grew as an individual. I overcame my challenges by being consistent and having that support system when facing challenges in my business. Having someone to talk to about the challenges you face helps break down the situation, hear their perspective, and finding a solution to the problem. The lessons I learned was don’t be afraid to ask for help when you face challenges because we all go through them in some form, having that support system is the key; always create a plan; it’s okay to take risks in your business; and believe in yourself! The world should know that Fly Guyz Clothing Company has so many great things coming soon, so make sure to stay connected with us through Instagram and Facebook! We are here to change the clothing game for younger boys.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were coming to Houston for a visit, I would definitely show her all the great food cuisines Houston offers. I believe Houston is known for its diverse city and the many different cultures that make up this city. I am a big foodie, so we would start Monday at the breakfast club for their wonderful southern home-cooked entrees. Then head over to the museum district to visit all the great museums Houston has to offer. One of my favorite museums is the Museum of Natural science; I always love the exhibits they showcase. They are always so interesting! After the museum district, we would grab lunch at Flip’n Patties. They have yummy burgers and sandwiches there that you would definitely enjoy. Their Puetatas Fries is a must-have; make sure to add these to your order when you visit. From there, we would end the night at one my my favorite restaurants Gringos. Tuesday, we would start our day at First Watch for breakfast, then head to Discovery green for outdoor activities. Discovery Green has so many great activities going on, from yoga to just having a picnic to watching movies at the park. During the holidays, they have many great activities for the kids to enjoy as well! From there, we would grab lunch at Oh My Gogi Korean BBQ Food Truck. When I say they have the best Korean BBQ ever, I mean it! I have never experienced Korean BBQ until I had their food, and I was blown away! Their quesadillas are my favorite!! That night we would enjoy another one of my favorite restaurants El Tiempo Catina. Enchiladas are my go-to entree at their restaurant, and they have so many locations around the Houston area. On Wednesday, it would be more of a self-care relaxing day by enjoying a morning spa. I don’t have a favorite Spa here in Houston, but there are quite a few good ones in the area. After the spa, it’s time to enjoy some retail therapy at the local Houston Premium Outlets in Cypress. They have so many great finds at this location at great prices! I love their Nike outlet! After shopping, we would end the night at Pho Saigon, one of my favorite Vietnamese restaurants. On Thursday, it’s time to end the week with some real fun because the weekend is around the corner! We would end up back at the breakfast club for brunch because I am telling you they have the best southern food you will find in Houston. After breakfast, we would head to Andretti Indoor Karting & Games in Katy, Tx, for go-kart racing, which is one of my ultimate favorite activities. Then end the night at Dave N’ Busters for bowling, eating, and just hanging out. Friday is finally here, and I usually like to find a local festival in the Houston area with food trucks and good music. There is usually always a festival or outdoor event going on somewhere in Houston during the spring and summer. After the festival, we would end the night grabbing one of the most exquisite grilled cheese sandwiches you will ever have at Twisted Grilled Cheese. I was blown away the first time I had their Grilled cheese Sandwich. They have so many different combinations you can put in your Grilled Cheese sandwich. Also, make sure to add their signature limeade to your order; you won’t regret it!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are many people I would like to thank that have encouraged me throughout my business journey. I want to thank my mom for instilling in me that hard work always pays off and never to give up. There will be challenges in life that you will face, but you can overcome any obstacle with faith and dedication. Also, I would like to thank my dad and step-dad for teaching me about entrepreneurship and how to run a successful business. My entire family and close friends have shown so much support, encouraged me through my challenges, and continued to spread the word to others about my business. My wonderful brand ambassadors and their moms, taking time out of their busy schedules by helping me spread the word about my business throughout Instagram and Facebook. They are the best, and I am forever grateful for them!! Lastly, my son who has been the heart of me starting my business. When he was born, it was a struggle to find a variety of clothing options for him. I wanted to give boys from age newborn to grade school the opportunity to have a variety of clothing selections that you will not typically see in your local children’s clothing store. Everyone I have mentioned has been an essential part of my business, and I would like to thank each person from the bottom of my heart because my business is what you see today because of their support.

Website: https://flyguyzclothingco.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flyguyzclothingco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flyguyzclothingco

Other: Email: Flyguyzclothingco@gmail.com

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