Today we’d like to introduce you to Kimberly McDowell.
Hi Kimberly, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I started ButterFlyWerks in 2017, with the intent of producing a documentary about my younger brother’s (CJ Wiley) recovery journey after a near death ten-hour brain surgery that entailed multiple subsequent operations. Prior to CJ’s diagnosis of Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM), he was a successful master barber and tattoo artist with deep clientele. The aftermath left him disabled. His strength and will to overcome, inspired his pursuit of a career in filmmaking. During his recovery phase, I asked. “CJ, what do you want to do with your life?” He responded, “I want to make films.”, I said, “Okay, let’s do it.”
I quickly found myself enjoying the “Executive Producer” life. This led to subsequent productions in film, music and live entertainment. To date, ButterFlyWerks has partnered with childhood friend , Screwroy Rice to film his comedy special Screw The Rules, “Somebody Call The Cops” with another special, Screw The Rules, I’m GROWN GROWN filming at The House of Blues Houston, January 14th, 2022.
Our body of work also includes a live entertainment partnership with Terry DidUm of Terry DidUm Designz for Love, Paint and Soul; an annual event that features grammy nominated artists performing live while a visual artist paints a masterpiece, we include award winning poets and comedic relief. The event provides gourmet hors d’oeuvres, top grade bartending and most important, positive energy that’s rooted in love.
Arianna Shalee is an up and coming artist of which ButterFlyWerks has produced six singles and music videos. Spotify certified, Arianna Shalee’s EP “Exactly” will be released in early 2022.
During the pandemic, I recalibrated our business strategy and partnered with music producer, Dom Harris. The partnership resulted in the creation of DOM eau de parfum, “The quintessential Fragrance for the Refined Gentlemen”. It launches in November 2021.
Additionally, we have a non-profit organization named ButterFlyWerks Giving. Its purpose is to operate an organization for the underserved portion of the community whose focus is providing programs that promote positive self image, scholarly success , community leadership and entrepreneurship.
At ButterFlyWerks, we permeate positivity in all endeavors, provide quality entertainment, strategic Awareness. and sustained renaissance.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
No, it has not been a smooth road. Building the brand, finding great vendors, solid consultants and the perfect staff and has been a wonderful journey.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about ButterFlyWerks?
ButterFlyWerks is a multimedia company. People should know that we care about every aspect of all projects we partake. We specialize in strategic partnerships that produce entertainment that is memorable. Our most notable production is the Screw The Rules, “Somebody Call The Cops” comedy special starring Screwroy Rice. It’s currently released on several outlets including Amazon Prime, Tubi, Comcast, Apple TV, Xumo and Vudi. It’s been such a success, we decided to shoot Screw The Rules, “I’m GROWN GROWN”. These projects are the product of trust, patience, diligence, uncompromising ethic, faith and friendship.
We are proud to have produced with TerryDidUm, Love, Paint and Soul 2018 and 2019. We offer music production, a luxury fragrance line and have a non-profit named ButterFlyWerks Giving.
The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
Yes, to always have a contingency plan. Be creative and take calculated risks. Cultivate great relationships and assist whenever possible. Never over-extend yourself and have a minimum 12-month cash reserve. Most importantly, stay calm and be wise.
Contact Info:
- Email: kimberly@butterflywerks.net
- Website: www.butterflywerks.com
- Instagram: @butterflywerks
- Facebook: Butterflywerks, LLC
- Twitter: ButterFlyWerks
