Life and Work with Rylan Compton

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rylan Compton.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Rylan. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Growing up I have always dreamed of being in the fashion industry. As a child, I was taught that going to college and getting a degree in teaching, engineering or the medical field was best due to the need for all and the security a “job” each of those career paths would provide. Throughout high school, I knew I would soon have to choose one of the few to start preparing for college. I wanted to follow my dreams however in the back of my head I would think it was impossible to become a fashion icon unless, wealthy, you’re born into wealth or knew someone famous, I always doubted myself. I thought If I went to college my major couldn’t be related to fashion because that wasn’t a “serious” degree and Once I graduated I wouldn’t know where to start. So, of course, I did exactly what many others do, went to college and studied nursing. I attended Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas. Things didn’t work out my freshman and sophomore year, so Eventually I moved back home to Houston with my parents, however still commuted. Soon, financially I got a full-time job and needed to work a full 80 hours every two weeks. School eventually became difficult to attend unless online. I worked as a pharmacy technician for four years. I was unhappy with my job which led to my personal happiness in life. Working at CVS, I knew I had a bigger purpose, and I wasn’t fulfilling it. In my heart, I knew my calling but was afraid. One day I spoke with my mentor about my dreams, we came up with a business plan, and I stepped out on my faith. Late July 2018, I left my job and started my own brand Mint + Marie Apparel. Our main focus is to empower women and help each individual express themselves through fashion.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I am just starting as well; however, My advice for other women is yes there are struggles, as there is in everything in life that’s worth it in the end. Has it been a “smooth” road? Not at all, but am I able to get through the bumps in the road? Most definitely. Who said following your dreams would be easy? Nobody, all we were taught is that it’s worth the hard work, sweat and tears. It’s like giving birth! If you’re afraid, I’m here to tell you we all are! But fear will do nothing but hold you back, and you will never perform to your highest potential. It’s okay to be afraid or nervous, that’s normal. But never allow either of the two to prevent you from moving forward to your success.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with Mint + Marie Apparel – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I specialize in woman’s clothing. What sets me apart from others is what my brand represents, the way we treat our customers, our quality, and our style! What makes me the most proud of as a brand is our positive customer feedback. It means the world! We are here to please our women, so it’s amazing to hear the feedback even the constructive criticism. It only makes us better as a company. We will always listen to their wants and needs! Without them, there would be no us!

Were there people and/or experiences you had in your childhood that you feel laid the foundation for your success?
When I was a child, I always enjoyed playing dress up and dressing up other people! It was so much fun. I could honestly say I didn’t know what I wanted to do in my future but I knew I wanted to do something related to fashion.

Contact Info:

• Website: Mintandmarieapparel.com
• Phone: 8325571218
• Email: rylancompton@mintandmarieapparel.com
• Instagram: Mintandmarieapparel
• Facebook: Mint + Marie Apparel

Image Credit:
Photos by Jazmine
Jayda Lewis
Rylan Compton
Bria Warren

Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.