This blog contains affiliate links for which I earn a small commission, at no extra cost to the reader. This means that if you purchase products or services through these links, I will be compensated. As an affiliate, I only recommend products and services that I genuinely enjoy and feel would be of value.
One day, a close friend of mine invited me to share a booth with her at Harlem Week, an event that brings together so much culture and creativity. At the time, I had a few tote bags that I had originally started selling out of my barbershop. These totes were collecting dust because, for some reason, no one in the neighborhood seemed interested in the positive affirmations printed on them. I knew the message was important, but I was struggling to find my audience.
However, everything changed on that day at Harlem Week. Those same affirmation totes that were sitting untouched at my shop sold out instantly at the event! People were drawn to the uplifting messages, and before I knew it, I had nothing left to sell. It felt incredible. The success didn’t go unnoticed either—other vendors saw how quickly my bags sold out and rushed to the same wholesaler to get their hands on the same totes.
While it felt amazing to sell out so quickly, I realized that if I wanted to continue vending on my own and stand out, I would have to switch things up. I needed a product that was unique, something that couldn’t be easily replicated by others. That’s when the idea of designing my own umbrellas and totes came to life.
I thought to myself, “It’s always going to rain, so why not carry an umbrella that not only protects you from the weather but radiates positivity?” That’s how I started creating umbrellas and tote bags with my own designs. These aren’t just any umbrellas—they feature positive images of Black women and men, affirmations, and even nature-inspired graphics. Each design is meant to uplift, inspire, and offer something special that you won’t find anywhere else.
What I absolutely love about vending now is the support and admiration I receive from my customers. Many of them return year after year, often bringing friends and family along. They even know which festivals I regularly attend, which makes it feel like a reunion every time. It’s a true blessing, and I don’t take for granted that I am healthy, happy, and able to keep doing what I love.
To all my wonderful customers reading this, I just want to say thank you for your continued support and encouragement. You’ve helped me grow my business in ways I never imagined. I’ll be posting the events I’ll be vending at, so keep an eye out! And for those who can’t make it in person, my products are available online—just click the links in the photos.
Blessings to everyone, and I hope to meet you at an event or hear from you when you make a purchase online!
With gratitude,
Elisa
This blog contains affiliate links for which I earn a small commission, at no extra cost to the reader. This means that if you purchase products or services through these links, I will be compensated. As an affiliate, I only recommend products and services that I genuinely enjoy and feel would be of value.
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