We had the good fortune of connecting with West Harvest and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi West, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I have been pursuing entrepreneurship since I attained my degree in Entrepreneurship back in 2012. I have tried several businesses in the past that just wasn’t satisfying. I have always enjoyed graphic design work and became a self taught graphic designer. I figured the best way to display my graphics were to put them on shirts. I researched what equipment I needed and decided embroidery would allow me to create until my heart was content.
What should our readers know about your business?
I believe a few things set my business apart from others. I believe my quality of work is the first thing. Price would be the second and my niche of making logos glow. Which is one of the reasons I decided to name my business Illuminated Wear.
I am most proud of the overall growth of the business since officially starting the business in 2020. I went from just doing my branding and clothing to having over 20 businesses that i do branding for.
We all know that starting a business can be difficult and challenging but I believe the key is determination, persistence, and alot of patience. The hardest part of this business for me is working capital! Right now my full-time job funds my business.
I am a self taught embroiderera and only 2 years in so I have learned alot about the business. YouTube University is definitely my biggest teacher. 😆 I am dedicated to perfecting my craft.
I just want the world to know that you dont have to spend thousands of dollars for something designer. We do quality work at affordable prices!
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would definitely take the friends to POST Houston, KISS Houston, Club 5015, Colors museum, graffiti park, Houston Rockets Game.
Houston offers some if the best restaurants, night life, and venues in the states so it’s really hard to name just a few.
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?
First and foremost I give all my thanks to the good Lord above. I have many people that have played a part in the success of Illuminated Wear but I would say my Mother and Father gave me a good foundation of work ethic, morals, and the attitude that you are the creator of your story. You just have to WORK towards the goals you set for yourself.
I would say my kids (Zion & Zj) are the motivation behind Illuminated Wear they push me to be a better man daily. I really do this for those two.
All of my close friends and family have also giving me encouragement, support, and love.
I would also like to Shoutout the wonderful customers and businesses that continue to allow me to create for them.
Website: Illuminatedwear.com
Instagram: Illuminated_wear
Facebook: Illuminated Wear
Other: TikTok: Illuminated Wear