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

Hi Mark, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?

Well, back in 2016 I really started enjoying the hookah experience after a trip overseas. I wanted to bring that same experience back to the states and quickly realized many places that offer hookah were not as good as what I experienced overseas. So, from that point on, I spent countless hours trying out different hookahs from various companies all to develop a great product that would combine luxury appeal for users like myself to create thick quality smoke and enjoy an upper echelon hookah experience.

I wanted a unique name for the business that would fit what I was trying to offer. So, I went with my middle name, Vinlinci. Pronounced (Vin-Lin-See). To me it sounds kind of fancy like those famous designer brands such as Gucci, Fendi, Givenchy, etc.

As a current professional firefighter paramedic for the last 9 years, I was able to gain experience of fire science and relate it to how coals burn shisha to choose the proper materials for our hookahs and accessories.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?

Currently I work full time as a federal firefighter paramedic. I graduated from college with a bachelor’s in biology from Randolph-Macon College in Ashland, VA where I also played collegiate football as well. When I finished college, I actually wanted to do Physical Therapy, I was able to get a job in that field where I worked as a Physical Therapy Assistant. However, after about a year it felt pretty repetitive and I wanted something a little more exciting. So I decided to apply for the fire department in Hampton, Va at the time where I worked for approx 6 years before going to the federal fire department. The best part about the job other than helping people on their worst day, is that it each day is dynamic, you never know what you are going to see when responding to incidents.

Like many jobs, there are always opportunities for learning and getting better at the job. Til this day I take every chance I get to pursue continuing education and certification courses that correlate with my job. It is a job that is far from easy, and I pride myself in staying motivated and passionate each day.

I’ve always wanted to be my own boss, so starting a business sometimes felt impossible especially with my full time work schedule. I learned that prayer , hard work, and time management are the keys to accomplishing anything you want. I also learned that there will be plenty ups and downs along the way. As I continue to grow in this business, I would want the world to know that just like firefighting I am extremely passionate in creating hookahs of the best quality that provide a great experience for all users. Although, most of my sales on online, I one day want to open up a hookah lounge myself and be able to provide my hookahs to different venues across the globe.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I was in Houston a short time but the places I did enjoy was Kamp especially for their Sunday brunch. Great vibe, food, and drinks. I currently reside in Atlanta Georgia. Like Houston, there are a bunch of things to do there each day of the week.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost, I would like to thank my Lord and Savior. God has a plan for all of us and I am trusting the process he has set forth for me. I would also like to thank my family and friends for the support and believing in the business. I have met some wonderful people while traveling and showcasing my hookahs at events, bars, and clubs. Although this is just the beginning of a long and meaningful journey, I look forward to meeting great new people and other entrepreneurs along the way.

Website: www.vinlincihookah.com

Instagram: @vinlinci_hookah

Facebook: Vinlinci Hookahs

Youtube: vinlincihookahs

Image Credits
Vinlinci Company photographer

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