LIRM Interview Corner ~ One on One With Shawn White

Anyone who knows me knows what my motto is, "We support anyone who is making a positive difference in the world today."  Daily, we gaze various newspapers, television programs and more for those making a major difference in the world and today we have just that.


More positive difference after the jump

In a time where many showcase the negative aspects of life as well as the latest gossip, we pride ourselves on showcasing positivity. One of those we believe is poised and destined to make a difference is that of Shawn White.


Just recently via http://www.twitter.com/ there was tweet via someone who simply said, "Oh My God! Jesus Juice Couture". Never one to be at a loss of words, I found myself being annoyed at the choice of hateful words but Shawn never let it shake his aspirations.


This East Coast native is focused, determined and grinding on a daily basis to make his mark in this world. We recently had the opportunity to go one on one with him and his story is unique to say the least. Check out this interview and you will agree that Shawn is clearly focused and ready to make that move to the next level in fashion.

Shawn, thanks a million for this interview! Can I just say that you are doing an amazing job with your line.
Thanks Darian, it is an honor to be interviewed and showcased.


Give our readers some background info of where you come from and the goal of your brand/company.
Jesus Juice Coature was started in 2009 in Harlem, simply from the perspective of consumers for consumers. I wanted to create outerwear that is comparable to the mainstream brands that symbolize excellence BUT with an undeniable urban stance. Our plan is to become a direct competitor to Moncler and Band of Outsiders.


Being successful is something that your followers on the social networks can tell is important to you. Tell our readers what inspires you to continue to reach for the stars?
A huge inspiration for me is to create opportunities for other talented designers and aspiring entrepreneurs. In establishing JJC, I was forced to learn every aspect of the fashion business from sketching, patterns to sourcing skins and fabrics to production, marketing and sales. Obviously, I didn't want to but no one would help me.

I was able to speak with Daymond John and J. Alexander Martin of FUBU, whom both gave me invaluable insight. With their levels of success, that was huge for me. Lastly, I love what I do- I love designing clothes and putting outfits together, and I love business and the art of putting deals together. This is totally out of the blue (my favorite color) but Tyler Perry is a huge inspiration. He changed the traditional business model, simplified it and maximized profits. I salute him.


Outstanding! Being in your field can be extremely stressful. Share with our readers how you handle stress?
It may sound corny or cliché but when I'm stressed I just close my office door and pray and meditate and talk to my Mother. Travelling and interacting with beautiful women also relieve stress as they are perks of the job. LOL


As a young man growing up, did you have any role models who you looked up? Tell us more about them
Growing up, I really looked up to Hip Hop artists but from a fashion standpoint and just the environment. The beautiful thing about living in New York City is at any moment you could see the biggest star on Earth walk down the street and he's looking to see what you're wearing.

I looked up to Doug E. Fresh ,whose from Harlem, for his crazy fashion sense with the fresh Bally's and leather and cashmere sweaters. I loved infamous street dude’s sense of style like Alpo and Rich Porter and their custom outfits. Oh, and I can't forget the Beat Street era. It was so raw and individualistic.


How do you deal with criticism? Good and Bad?
Of course I love the positive acknowledgement and welcome it but I don't live by it. The glory isn't mine its Jesus' feel me?


Negative criticism is just a part of the game. I don't take it personal for two reasons: 1st- when someone speaks of JJC good or bad, they are still speaking of it. It's still promotion. 2nd- As long as I'm doing the right things- keeping GOD first and being a blessing to others.  My family and close friends love what I do, later for the rest. I don't know them.

What would you say to that young person who has a dream but not alot of support?
With any aspiring business person who lacks the support, I'd tell them to keep pushing. I started JJC with one jacket, going store to store to get a response from the owners and salespeople alike. If you truly believe, you can make it happen. There is no no and network! Go to places that people who can help your vision hang at. That's what I do.


Who are some of your favorite designers seasoned as well as independent?
I love BeBe's designs for women and I love Burberry for men and just a total brand in general. I'd say they are my biggest influence.

Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
In five years, I plan to have 5 freestanding boutiques in New York, Chicago, Washington, DC, London and Tokyo, in addition to producing independent films and philanthropy.


How do you give back to your community?
I donate a lot of outerwear to various New York charities for coat drives and as JJC grows, we will certainly do huge community events and establish projects and programs that will directly impact the community from a grassroots point of view.


Amazing! I want to thank you for taking out the time to go one on one with us and we must say you are doing a great job.
Thanks Darian and so are you. You are a good dude!!!


Just reading Shawn White's one on one, you know fully well that he will make every opportunity a reality. In a time when many choose not to dream or throw in the towel, it is refreshing to see someone persistent and focused. We salute this Role Model for stepping out on faith and enhancing his brand and from the looks of it all - His Future looks BRIGHT!


www.twitter.com/JJC_NOW


http://www.jesusjuicecoature.com/


www.myspace.com/jesusjuicecoature