Today we’d like to introduce you to Charles Ivy
Hi Charles, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My initial idea for EnvyInk began in 2008 when I was a graphic designer. At the time, I was married and barely making ends meet with my salary. Despite these challenges, I had a deep passion for T-shirt art, which was the original business model I envisioned. I spent months brainstorming and trying to come up with an impactful name. Eventually, inspiration struck: EnvyInk. The name came to me while watching the 1995 movie “Seven,” featuring Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman. I took “Envy” from the seven deadly sins and combined it with “Ink,” referring to printing ink. I was confident that people would buy and envy my T-shirts—hence the name.
I purchased the domain and started researching the T-shirt business, but I soon realized how challenging it was to gain popularity in that industry. At the time, brands like “Affliction” were extremely popular, which made it difficult for a newcomer like me. Consequently, I abandoned that business model, and EnvyInk remained dormant until February 2021.
In January 2021, I was working as an Art Director and Account Executive for a company in California called Car Media Group. We were inundated with creative work for automobile dealerships across the USA. It was during this time that my close friend and boss, Haoie Luc, suggested we capitalize on the demand for creative services in the automotive sector. We quickly developed a business model focused on selling creative subscriptions. As a result, on April 26, 2021, EnvyInk, Inc. was officially established and filed with the state of Texas and the IRS. We successfully tapped into dealerships that needed quick, 24/7 turnaround times for their promotional materials to sell vehicles.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I am currently facing an unexpected problem involving a trademark issue with my corporation name, EnvyInk, Inc. An individual is attempting to appropriate my corporation name through a pending trademark application with the USPTO. I am consulting with a legal firm to explore my options for resolving this matter. I am appalled by the moral implications of this situation, especially since I created the name in 2008 and incorporated EnvyInk, Inc. in April 2021. The feelings this scenario has evoked in me are overwhelming. I want the attack on my corporation to cease so that I can continue to earn a living from the business I have worked so diligently to build.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
At EnvyInk, Inc., an Advertising and Marketing Agency, our mission is to provide exceptional marketing services to businesses of all sizes. By helping our clients succeed, we aim to make a positive impact in the world. Originally, EnvyInk, Inc. focused solely on the automotive industry through a subscription-based model. However, we have since expanded our services and become a full-scale agency that assists various companies with their marketing needs.
We offer a range of services, including Video Production, Search Engine Optimization, Google Business Profile Setup, Creative Content, Website Management, Email Marketing, and Social Media Management. At EnvyInk, Inc., I take great pride in our ability to work with little to no direction from our clients while consistently delivering exceptional results.
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?
No. Business as usual.
Pricing:
- Video Production $2,000
- SEO $1,500
- Google Business Profile Setup $900
- Creative Content $700
- Social Media Management $500
Contact Info:
- Website: https://envyink.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlesivy.2.0/
- LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/charlesivy
- Other: https://charlesivy.com/
