Today we’d like to introduce you to Jillian Napper.
Jillian, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I’d like to credit my mother on how I got started because she noticed the talents in my siblings and I early on in our lives, and the passion behind them. She always kept us busy in activities ranging from the DC Youth Orchestra to Soccer on the Hill. My favorites were dance and visual art, naturally. So like my mind, my body was always moving. I eventually honed in on my craft(s) in 2008, and while studying at Virginia Commonwealth University I started rapping. At this point in my career, I knew I wanted to have my own boutique selling exclusive/independent designs, while consequently bringing people together with my music and wild ideas. In 2014 The Regal People is born.
After doing some groundwork in my hometown Washington, DC and collaborating with businesses, I decided that if I want my brand to be global I have to move around and plant some more seeds. Houston became the second location for us to open up shop. Since 2014 we’ve been greeted by so many brilliantly talented people as well as the highs and lows of being an artrepreneur. A lot of these acquaintances came about by organizing that we’d continued upon relocating from DC. Now, in 2017, we’re continuously planning events and creating collections that truly execute the vision of The Regal People: to uplift the mentality of individuals through music, fashion, and art.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely wasn’t easy getting adjusted to a new city and the day-to-day. But it wasn’t anything we couldn’t handle. It took a lot of mental strength, patience, and physical labor to get where we are today. As an independent artist or a small business, you have to figure out the money, the promo, the mojo. Yes, the mojo. What is going to set you apart from the rest? You have to ask yourself questions like, “What does my vision look like?” “What does it feel like?” “Is this possible?” The moment you can answer those questions with confidence and integrity, all the hard work doesn’t seem like work anymore and you’re more inclined to give it everything you’ve got.
The Regal People – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
The Regal People is a lifestyle brand that focuses on human empowerment and uplifting the mentality of individuals through music, fashion, and art. We are creators and game changers with a passion for community. Folx that have heard of TRP might have gotten introduced to us through our music and vending events, or by coming across our page on social media. As a company, we are most proud of our growth, awareness, and ability to stay relevant and innovative.
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
Making a name for myself in a city where I had never imagined being, and going into my third year of my first artist residency!
Contact Info:
- Website: theregalpeopleonline.com
- Email: theregalpeople@gmail.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/theregalpeople
- Facebook: facebook.com/theregalpeopleonline
Image Credit:
MAW Supply, The Regal People
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