We had the good fortune of connecting with Brianna Rogers and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Brianna, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Becuase every 68 seconds someone in the United States is sexually assualted, and as a victim myself, I decided to create BriSafe for people to bring confidence in protecting themselves.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Sure there are many other companies that provide safety keychains, but BriSafe is the ONLY self defense accessory brand that is located every week at the number one HBCU in the nation, Florida A&M University. BriSafe has only been open for two years and we have successfully shipped to 48 states and 6 countries, classifying us as a world wide brand. BriSafe also helped overturn the ban of pepper sprays on the campus of Florida State University, and looks forward to helping other colleges follow in FSU’s footsteps. We also have successfully thrown fundraisers that have benefited free pepper sprays for college students in the area.
I decided to become more established in the town that I live in, and just so happens, the city of Tallahassee is the home of THREE major colleges and learning institutions. Joining groups such as the Network of Young Professionals, the Greater Tallahassee Chamber, Women’s Wednesdays, and Working Class Wednesdays, have helped take my business to the next level locally.
I have learned that it truly does take a village to grow a business. If I need help with marketing, accounting, customer support, I literally have garunteed peopel from my community who can help me solve any problem. Leaning on the professionals is a huge lesson I have learned and it have saved me so many headaches.
BriSafe was started after I was sexually assaulted in broad daylight in a resturant, and NO ONE helped me. My company helps bring confidence to protect yourself in whatever situation.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Tallahassee is a fun, southern, party town that has tons of charm. Sunday is always a
Funday in Tallahassee, and we often enjoy
brunch and unlimited mimosas in the
Railroad Square Craft House, which is
surrounded by 30 different colorful minority
owned businesses.
Mondays are of course for axe throwing at Tallahassee’s only stand alone axe throwing facility, that also has a rage room.
Tuesdays would not be the same if it were not for Taco Tuesdays at Burrito Border. My favorite part about Burrito Border is you can enjoy $2 margaritas, while playing Super Mario Carts on the Nitendo 64.
Wednesdays are notorious in Tallahassee for attending the oldest black owned club in Tallahassee, Top Flite. This gem of the city is tucked away close to Florida A&M University and if known for their good music, great drinks, and mouthwatering chicken wings.
Thursdays are a perfect day to explore one of the many trails that are embedded throughout the city. Some trails are historical Native American trails, and others help connect the town from different locations.
Friday is the beginning of the weekend and we always enjoy Eve on Adams, which is the highest rooftop bar in the city of Tallahassee, and it’s located in the heart of downtown.
Saturday is market day. Tallahasssee has truly embodied the culture of small businesses. What does this mean? Every Saturday there are at least two markets available for small businesses to showcase, and sell their goods. The Downtown Market, and the Frenchtown Market are staples in this town.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would love to give a huge Shoutout to my incredible support system. After I was sexually assaulted during covid, I was so lost, upset, confused and fearful. My support system encouraged me to channel my emotions rise up from it. What was that rise up? The rise up was BriSafe. My support system helps me create the keychains, set up at markets, and wrap of packages.
Website: www.brisafeboo.com/shop
Instagram: www.instagram.com/brisafeboo
Linkedin: @brisafeboo
Twitter: www.Twitter.com/brisafeboo
Facebook: www.facebook.com/brisafeboo
Image Credits
Photo by: Steven Saccio