IC is not at the six figure business level just yet, but that doesn’t stop me from building the brand of my dreams. Seriously, I spend 15 to 30 minutes a day envisioning the store’s growth. It’s a really great thing for me to do. I am thankful for every moment that happens in ICB World. I think it’s fun that no two days are alike. The main reason for this post is to let you know that you don’t need thousands, hundreds or even one dollar in your account to live your dreams.
Last October, I did the store’s first look book, and I have the second look book under my belt too now. The total cost was $30 for the first shoot and $40 for the second. I had no major bills, and no major money was spent trying to achieve the vision I had for the look book. I had been hoarding all the pieces for some time now, and several friends donated some of their old designer duds. I put a call to action out on social media that I need help shooting the look book.I called and emailed friends and googled my behind off to find some help.
Korin is the AMAZING photographer that did both shoots. I totally adore her. I found her on Model Mayhem, and emailed her my vision and she signed on. Then I hit London up to be the stylist. She linked me up with Quan the MUA and the hairstylist for the first shoot. Next came the models. A college friend introduced me to Staisa, and I knew Alysha through someone. Then, I saw Lea at Starbucks and gave her my best, non-creepy-you-want-to-be-a-model-for-me, line. Brittney, the stylist assistant, was found on Instagram.
For the second shoot I worked with the some of the same ladies plus my college friend Curtis who helped with hair. I also added Kaybe to do styling. Make-up was done this time by another person I reached out to on Instagram. (You read that post last week).
I am not here to brag about people working for free. They all believe in my vision and agreed to be a part of it. The old saying is, “everything you need to accomplish your dreams is already in your possession, you just have to be willing to open your eyes.” I am completely grateful for everyone who worked on both shoots for the store. Many times, people have a stick up their butt and don’t want to help others live their dreams. It has been told to me over and over that to achieve anything in life you must first help others achieve their dreams. Any of these people could reach out to me right now for help, and I would help them. That’s for ANYONE that has helped Shop ICB. The day when I have a staff of 10 is coming. The day I have an amazing loft space for Imperfect Concepts is coming. I actually know that it’s going to be very soon. That is how positive I am. Every day I am thankful for the people who help my dreams come true; the customers who don’t know me but shop the store and tell their friends, the individuals who talk with me on social media, and the emails from individuals telling me I helped them.
We all are connected and here to help each other grow. Pride is something horrible. People will hold onto it just so they don’t have to ask for help or help someone else because they are too “good.” Think of all the billionaires and millionaires of the world. They are a in a club of people who understand what it takes to be successful, and they all work together to get where they are. Warren Buffett and Bill Gates go on vacation, and play ping pong together.
Do not worry about only making $300 this month. You can double or triple it if you believe. We must not rush greatness. Let it come when it comes. Having 40 orders a week is amazing. I remember when that happened over the course of a month. No need to rush things because when it comes, you must be able to handle it. You don’t want to look like a fly-by-night company.
All in all, don’t let the current status of your bank account differ you from your dreams. There were moments when mine was zero, but it didn’t stop me. Believe in your dreams. Fight for them. Pursue them. Genuinely help someone else reach their dreams. A door or even a window will be open for you when its your time. I find it fulfilling helping others reach their dreams, I feel a rush and sense of accomplishment when I can help just one person.
