Meet Monique J | AUTHOR | FASHION DESIGNER

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

Hi Monique, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I actually started by writing my first book because I slipped into depression, December 2018 due to heartbreak/betrayal. I didn’t want to keep talking to my friends about it because I know they were probably annoyed. So I tried writing my thoughts out and that didn’t work either. I’m a hopeless romantic and I’m a hopeful person. So I would always zone out at work and just imagining how things could be better, it can be a random day where we rekind and hang out in the city after work and then next thing you know, we’re married a year later. So I started off from that day dream/scenario. The start of the book is actually a tribute to my mom who is a brain aneurysm survivor in real life. I kept writing from there, it flowed naturally and it was real. A few months later my first book was complete, April 2019 to be exact. I had a book launch in November 2019 which was amazing, I provided book merchandise (Hoodies), ‘I could tell you a great story’ with the heartbreak, diamond’s and money emojis. I got a great response. So with the money I raised, I donated to the brain aneurysm fund on behalf of my mom and with the other half I went and bought inventory to start my clothing line.

I’ve always been a fashionista so this wasn’t far fetched at all. I was just scared to start a business, I thought people would laugh at me or wouldn’t take me serious. So seeing the response from my book and hoodies was all the motivation I needed, I finally had confidence, I knew exactly how my highest self looked. I launched my business GlitzGalore that December. It was a full circle moment for me considering the mental position I was in a year prior. It was the beginning of my new life, a new me. I became HER.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is free. I don’t feel the need to fit in or follow trends. I’ve always been that way in general. So I was always kind of an outkast because I’m not a follower. So when I’m designing that’s exactly what I’m expressing.

I’m proud of the growth of my business, so many times I’ve felt unseen. So now to see orders from all over the country speak volumes. So I’m excited to learn more and innovate. Ive donated to the young women’s shelter twice and honestly, I’m excited for my brand to grow so I can do more for my community and really help my people. I know what’s it like to not have a roof over your head and having to eat 30¢ noodles until pay day. I want to open up a center where young creatives can come and freely express themselves, whether it be designing,making music, painting etc. i want to provide counseling for them and the right resources they need to help them further in whatever career path they choose.

Consistency is what got me where I am today. I’ve learned to network as well, networking is really key. Get into the rooms with the people that are like minded. Doing collaborations played a big part as well. So many days I’m ready to give up but I know I can’t. it’s not easy, but you have to trust the process, when you in your lane and understand your calling, you know this comes with it and you begin to embrace the bruises because it’s going to pay off. Keep going.

I’ve learned the importance of business, not just the glitz and glam the outside world sees. It’s so much that goes into running a business and if you really trying to make you can’t skip steps. I’ve also learned that overnight success doesn’t really happen the minute you launch and sell out. It comes from consistency and innovating your business. Something is going to stick and take off, I feel like that’s almost where I am in my business. God willing.
All in all, just keep going, a month of no sales can quickly change to sold out. Keep your faith and stay the course.

I want the world to know that it’s possible! Just start, small town and 3 friends? Still start that business! And you’re hearing this from someone whose still working hard to make it. No matter how discouraged you may feel, give yourself grace. When I got the great response from selling the hoodies, I had a vision for my clothing brand in 2019 and launched January 2020 and didn’t get one order. Until April (I did get 2 custom orders between that time) Fast forward, this year I got to see my work on E! News. Where I used to always watch the Kardashians. Full circle moments.

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?
In New York City, there’s so much to see and do! And I’m a city girl so if it’s a day date, my Bestfriend and I would get on the ferry boat from the Bronx to the Manhattan so she can see the view of the buildings, queens skyline, Brooklyn. It’s actually inspiring. When we get to our stop we’ll become tourist. Walk around, doing a little shopping in midtown and Times Square. Then hit a rooftop, because it’s no point in shopping if you’re not going to get a margarita and some truffle fries while getting a really good view of the city and some girl talk. Maybe hit Tao at night for some good Asian fusion food, good music and beautiful people.

In New York City, you would want to visit governors island, a rooftop, a museum, the edge is always a good place for tourist, they have a glass deck and floor overlooking the city. New York has a lot to offer.

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?
Well first and foremost, All Glory to God!

My mother is my biggest supporter, from the minute I told her I wanted to write a book and start a clothing line, she always encourages me, always purchase from me like a customer and invest in me. I’m just thankful to have a mom like her.

Special thank you to my boyfriend, whose also my biggest supporter, the one who pushes me to get out of my comforter zone and outwork the old me, We all need that person!

& to my friends, my tribe, always purchasing, not that it even matters, just encouraging and giving me my flowers means so much.

& thank you to everyone who genuinely support me!

Website: www.glitzzzgalore.com

Instagram: https://Instagram.com/glitzzgalore

Facebook: https://Facebook.com/GlitzGalore

Image Credits
Featured: Claire Sulmers Owner of Fashionbombdaily Models: Britt, Myla Owner, Monique ft. mom