We recently had the chance to connect with Demetria Gartrell and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Demetria , thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Lately, what’s bringing me the most joy is the growth of Find Your Fly®, a passion project rooted in purpose and healing. My husband’s journey inspired the brand, which features vitiligo—a condition that challenged his self-image and sense of belonging. Witnessing his vulnerability as his skin changed pushed me to create something affirming and empowering, not just for him, but for anyone struggling to feel seen. The phrase “Find Your Fly®” was born as a personal reminder that we all carry something beautiful and resilient within us, even in our most uncertain seasons.
What started as a message of encouragement has become a movement—through apparel and storytelling, we’re helping people reclaim their confidence and embrace their authenticity. Lately, I’ve also found joy in expanding this work into the wellness space. I’ve begun a Pilates certification program so we can eventually incorporate movement and mindfulness into Find Your Fly®. It’s been incredibly fulfilling to blend creativity, community, and wellness—all rooted in love and liberation.
In short, joy for me is watching people—my husband included—step into their full power, knowing they are worthy just as they are.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Demetria, and I’m the founder of Find Your Fly®, a lifestyle brand born from love, resilience, and the power of self-acceptance. Our story began in 2018, during a deeply personal season when my husband’s vitiligo became more visible. As his skin changed, so did his confidence. He faced isolation, low self-esteem, and societal misunderstanding. Watching someone I love wrestle with his identity challenged me to respond not just with empathy, but with action.
One day, I said to him, “Find Your Fly®.” It wasn’t just a phrase—it was a declaration. A reminder that despite what we see in the mirror or what the world projects onto us, our beauty, strength, and worth are never diminished. That moment became the heart of our brand.
Today, Find Your Fly® exists to empower individuals to embrace their uniqueness and turn their pain into power. Our apparel features bold, uplifting messages designed to spark confidence and start conversations. We’re not just a brand; we’re a movement that encourages people to fly in every season of life.
Currently, I’m also pursuing Pilates teacher certification as we expand our work into the wellness space—blending movement, mindfulness, and messaging to support people holistically.
What makes Find Your Fly® unique is that it was born from a real-life journey of transformation, and every piece we create carries that spirit. It’s about being seen, being heard, and knowing that your fly, your flair, your strength, your story, is already within you.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
One of the most defining moments that reshaped my perspective on the world was during the height of the pandemic. My husband contracted COVID, and we were faced with uncertainty on every front—health, finances, and emotional well-being. At the same time, he was also navigating the impact of vitiligo, which had already tested his confidence and identity.
That season was heavy. But amid the fear and exhaustion, something beautiful happened: Find Your Fly® became more than just a brand. It became a lifeline. Not just for us, but for others too. Messages from customers who felt seen, affirmed, and empowered by our pieces reminded me that our purpose was bigger than a product. It was about healing, hope, and human connection.
That experience taught me that resilience is built in community, and that even in the darkest moments, we can be a light for one another. Now, everything I do through Find Your Fly® is rooted in that belief. We’re here to remind people that their story matters and their strength is real.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Absolutely, there was a time when I almost gave up.
During the pandemic, our brand suffered significant financial losses. My husband’s battle with COVID-19 affected our family deeply, emotionally, mentally, and economically. At the same time, trying to keep Find Your Fly® afloat as a small lifestyle brand competing with major players felt nearly impossible. The pressure of limited resources, coupled with the challenge of raising awareness about vitiligo in a world flooded with surface-level content, was overwhelming.
There were moments when I questioned if our mission could survive the weight of reality. But every time I came close to quitting, I reminded myself that Find Your Fly® was never just about clothing; it was about courage, visibility, and transformation. It was born from a deeply personal place, and that conviction kept me grounded.
We pressed on, leaning into our community, telling our story authentically, and staying true to our purpose. That decision, to keep going despite the odds, is what makes this journey so meaningful.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I’m deeply committed to building Find Your Fly into more than just a brand – into a movement that champions self-acceptance, empowerment, and authenticity. In a world that often emphasizes perfection, we strive to create a space where people can feel seen, valued, and inspired to embrace their true selves.
No matter how long it takes, I believe in building a community where fashion is more than just style; it’s a statement of resilience and identity. With the rising importance of body positivity and mental wellness, I see Find Your Fly® as a bridge between self-expression and healing. Whether it’s through expanding our product line, enhancing our digital presence, or hosting spaces for shared storytelling, I’m committed to cultivating connection and celebrating individuality for the long haul.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I see the impact Find Your Fly® has on others, especially those on their journeys of self-acceptance. Watching my husband regain confidence and find connection through the brand has been incredibly grounding. Knowing that something we created offers comfort, encouragement, and a sense of belonging to people who may feel unseen gives me a deep understanding of purpose. In those moments, when someone shares that our message helped them feel empowered, I feel aligned, fulfilled, and truly at peace.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.findyourfly.org
- Instagram: @findyoufly
- Facebook: Find Your Fly Action Campaign
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
