We recently connected with Just Raymona and have shared our conversation below.
Just, we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?
My self confidence and self esteem was started when I was a child. Fortunately for me, I’m that generation before social media. My parents and my family were the nucleus of my life! My granddaddy coming from the Deep South was a very proud man. He established that I was smart and could be anything that I wanted to be in this world. I just had to work for it and know within myself. My family especially my Mommie reiterated this all my childhood. The first real lesson I learned from my Mommie was ” sticks and stones will break my bones; but words will never hurt me”. What was meant by that is: never pay attention to what a stranger (that do not kn0w you or care about you) say or even feel about you! You know your self worth and what you set your mind to do or accomplish. Strangers for most part will not have your best interest at heart. Therefore even social media can’t shake my self confidence.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I started out in NYC in the early 2000’s as a Bespoke Stylist, making the looks for video shoots and wardrobes for entertainment artists. At the same time, I became the 7th avenue samplehouse for Victoria Royal. For almost 4 years I made 1st Patterns and Samples for their 75 looks for Fall and 60 looks for Spring. The dresses and mother of the bride gowns were sold at Neiman Marcu, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf etc. This was my introduction into the NY Fashion Industry. I love Pattern making (www.justraymona.com). I’m a bit different as a Pattern maker because I can and do stitch. I can drape it in muslin, fit it according to industry specs, and make it on the sewing machine. Therefore my 1st Patterns rarely need production patterns because of my ability to stitch, I make my 1st Patterns production ready. In 2007, I saw a need for quality, fashionable clothing for Plus Size clothing that actually fit. At the time I was a size 2. lol I did a little research and found 3 Plus Size models that had some real magazine and runway time especially being that this was the very beginning of the Plus Size Industry. I took about 7 months but using the fit models Miss Sharon Quinn and the late Miss Mia Amber and learned the necessities of cutting garments that accentuate, yet fit the bodies of a size 14 to 32 curvy woman. In fashion its not just the Designer that sees a vision but its really the Pattern maker that can make the vision come to fruition which accentuates form and fit. All women want to feel fabulous. It starts by looking at oneself and liking what we see! Yes it sounds shallow but we all want to feel good about ourselves and that does start with what one sees when they look. The clothing line is en.v new york (sizes 14-32) and we are bringing the fantasy and senusality to Plus Size clothing. The line was first launched in 2009 and I’m so excited to be able to say February 2024 the relaunch of en.v new york will be happening. Its our ecommerce site. You will be able to shop in the comfort of your own home. I’m very proud to say as well, production is here in NYC. This is important to us because we can ensure the quality stays.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Three most important qualities, skills or areas of knowledge that were impactful in my journey was first the self confidence to know I can do whatever I set my mind to regardless of how much time and effort it may take to make it happen. Secondly I didnt let the self confidence cloud my mind to thinking I knew it all. I did internships for little to no money to learn. As I tell my mentees, its always better to learn on someone else’s dime so you don’t make as many mistakes. The lessons learned from someone already doing what you are seeking to do, can’t be measured. This is how I acquired knowledge in Patternmaking/Sample making. I never went to school or college for what I do. Everyday I’m still learning with each new Designer. Experience is the best! Unfortunately You Tube can only familiarize you with something but only time doing it, is what teaches you and gives you experience to perfect and learn your craft. I am still scared especially will the relaunch in February fast approaching, but I know its time and Im letting my faith and belief in myself lead me. Being scared is a good thing. As long as you don’t allow it to stifle you. Use it to propel you forward.
What is the number one obstacle or challenge you are currently facing and what are you doing to try to resolve or overcome this challenge?
The number one obstacle with most entreprenuers esp. minorities is financing. It has taken me twice as long because of financing this clothing line as well as the Pattern making side of the business because of not being able to put aside 100k just for the business. I have worked and put the moeny into making it happen. Im okay. It has taken twice as long but the lessons learned will make www.envnewyork.com better for it, I know the value of hard work, the sacrifice, and the hustle of making this happen. Once we are relaunched and start making some money, this line will be nonstop. My heart and soul is in this. That gives me an upper hand I feel. When you have everything to lose, you make it happen at all cost!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.justraymona.com www.envnewyork.com
- Instagram: @justraymona @envnewyork
- Facebook: JustRaymona envnewyork
- Linkedin: justraymona
- Twitter: @justraymona @envnewyork
- Youtube: justraymona
Image Credits
Nathanial Adams
