We had the good fortune of connecting with Tasha Baggett and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Tasha, as a parent, what do you feel is the most meaningful thing you’ve done for your children?
I’m sure they would probably disagree but I’ve really tried to let them explore who they are and encourage their interests. Although creativity was appreciated in my family, it was DEFINITELY not considered a “real job”. Since I’ve started my business and had the opportunity to immerse myself in creativity I really understand what kind of kid I was and wish that someone would have encouraged me earlier. Even though I still question many of the aspirations my kids have I don’t just dismiss them (again, contrary to what they might think). I try to discuss the pros and cons and get them to really think about things before they make a decision. Encouraging their interests has made them more confident and they aren’t afraid to take chances and do things they enjoy regardless of the outcome,
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.
I design tees and other merch and gifts influenced by pop culture. I have always been obsessed with the 80s and 90s and I think it shows in my work. My perspective is that of a black, sometimes awkward, usually sarcastic, movie loving woman. I try to create thing that are inclusive and for everyone but after 3 years I’ve realized If it’s not “me” I can’t create around it. If you need a sports themed tee with a rhinestoned monogram I can’t help you but If you need a shirt that says “See You In Hell” with a cute bear, I got you covered! I’ve been in business about 4 years and It’s actually taken me several years to be able to confidently call myself a business owner. Saying “I own my own business” to someone always sounded so pretentious and snooty to me. I also assumed business owners had their business lives all together! I am neither of those things so I really struggled with this business owner identity. What’s changed recently is realizing that people really do consider me a “real business owner”. People are waiting to see what I’m doing, they care about what I have to offer and what I have to offer speaks to them and this means so much to me. Also being able to talk to business owners who are open to sharing their story honestly has been helpful as well. Of course we see the beautiful, “Instagram Life” but it’s good to know we all have the same struggles and it’s encouraging to see people succeed despite struggling behind the scenes.
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?
All good things happen around food and drinks but I’m not a planner so we would probably be all over the place! I love the trendy, new bars popping up all over the place like Present Company or Electric Feelgood that are open and bright but I also like small bars like Poison Girl or Two Headed Dog. We have SO MUCH great food so that would be a hard choice and depending on the weekend I like to introduce people to the Hip Hop Flea Market and the Graffiti Park because there’s nothing like it! Houston has so much to offer whomever I’m with would just have to go with the flow!
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
All of my Business Besites who encourage me, listen to me complain, motivate me, and hold me accountable. These ladies are priceless and I’m so glad to know them, When I started out my BFF Geeta was there at every event, greeting people, making sales, folding shirts and being a shoulder to lean on when I was shy and wouldn’t talk to anyone else. She continues to be one of my loudest cheerleaders! This year I’ve gotten to know Erica (Backseat Love) and Kristen (Bella Pelle Goods) and Carla (Carla Sue Cards) and they have really made an impact on my life and my business. They have reminded me that it is possible to meet good people and make friends when you’re a grown up. These ladies mean the world to me! And of course my family. Everything I do I do to make them proud.
Website: https://teamjeminidesigns.com
Instagram: instagram.com/teamjemini617
