Today we’d like to introduce you to I’Lasha James.
Hi I’Lasha, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I grew up in Galveston, TX. I’ve always dreamed that one day I would start a business. Reality is I allowed doubt to cloud my mind. One day, I sat down and began writing things in my journal that I wanted to accomplish. Believe it or not, the first thing on that list was to start a business. I began to be more specific with my prayers. I asked that doubt and fear be removed from my mind. We all know faith without works is dead. My children are always my motivation, however, I received lots of encouragement from my closest friends, family and someone special who invested into the start of my business. It wasn’t until June 2020, shortly after the pandemic started I took a leap of faith. The purpose of my business is to help make the everyday woman feel beautiful again. Often times as women we are so busy being superwoman for our families, that we forget about ourselves. I take careful consideration into what would make a woman look and feel beautiful. So far In my inventory, I have included fedora hats, dresses, handbags, sandals, and cute colorful face shields to help protect against the virus.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Starting your own business is never a smooth road. I have learned that you must have lots of will-power, discipline, be willing to learn, as well as accept criticism. You also must learn how to deal with negativity that comes your way. Faith and a good support system is what you need to help face the obstacles/challenges of running a business.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I run a business that specializes in making sure that women, not matter what race, size, or shape feel absolutely beautiful. A customer or anyone that knows me personally, will tell you that I am known for having a heart of gold, and always going above and beyond. I am most proud of finally overcoming my fear of doubt. What sets me apart from others is my compassion and will-power. I was always taught to treat people how you would like to be treated. Some businesses don’t care how they talk or treat their customers, they just want money. I want to make sure you are happy and leave feeling satisfied.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
My favorite child hood memory would be going to my grandmother’s house. Being the first grandchild of course I was spoiled rotten. Even now I do nothing wrong in her eyes. Going to her house was like heaven! If I asked her for anything, yes would be her only answer because it would hurt her soul to say the word no to me. Now it hurts my soul to tell her no. My grandmother is one of the strongest women I know, she is definitely the world’s best grandmother.
Image Credits
Mariah and Sha’Myrah Morris.
