One on One with "Odds Designs" Tish Odds
LIRM is at it again with an amazing and insightful look into the life and mind of a amazingly talented designer who is poised for greatness. There is so much negative news in the media and online, thankfully we are striving to showcase the positive and today is no exception.
More poise after the jump
Here at LIRM we believe that connection is key and thankfully we connected with Tish Odds, designer of Odds Designs. We've interviewed quite a few professional entrepreneurs but this woman of faith is sure about her survival and success in life.
Ladies and Gentlemen, Ms. Tish Odds
Tish, Share with our readers your background such as where you hail from. Etc.
My hometown is Benton Harbor, MI, a very small town that is filled with an enormous amount of talent. Benton Harbor has nurtured and produced professional athletes, entertainers and much more. Although my hometown faced many challenges throughout the years, I can still call it home. This place prepared me to persevere in life and only see the possibilities to come. So with that said “GO TIGERS”!
You seem to have an infectious personality and gift? Has this caused many to second guess your gift or has it enhanced who you are?
I believe my gift and personality can be viewed as one in the same. Everything about me from the time I can remember derived from art. My Mother is very creative and my father is an accomplished dreamer. In a world that demands you to play by the rules, I can only imagine that being second guessed is inevitable. I also believe, just as my handbags can enhance one’s wardrobe they have also enhanced my perspective onfashion, art and life.
Your handbags are amazing and unique, what is the process for creating your items? Have you designed for anyone else?
Well, let me start off by saying that the bag is my canvas and my heart and mind are the artists. The first thing I do to create is clear my head from any prior designs I've created, I require a blank canvas to start my process. I then enter my studio and the rest is a mixture of colors, shapes, textures and divine application. I have had the honor to present my handbags to Tanisha Sykes, senior editor of Essence Magazine and Nicole Lyons, African American race care driver.
"In a world that demands you to play by the rules, I can only imagine that being second guessed is inevitable."
There are tons of artists/designers out in the world who are striving for that big break. As one of them, what are five important keys to success?
- Keep God first in your life!
- Allow teams to form around you that have you're best interest at hand as well as theirs.
- Stay true to who you are as a creator!
- Remember this word Euodoo; it means to succeed in Reaching.
- Lastly but not least remember that ONE of success’s goals is to leave a legacy behind.
So with that said start your dream so someone else can live in it!
Amazing advice. Tish, we live in a society where many desire to be like everyone else. Share with us what sets you and your brand apart?
My designs such as myself have been tailored made to speak to a specific audience. Currently, all Odds Design handbags are one of a kind and my direction in creating my bags is to effectively display how art and fashion intertwined creates a timeless piece. My handbags have the ability to be positioned throughout art galleries, boutiques and elite events, which make my brand stand out amongst the others.
Being a unique individual can be somewhat stressful. How do you handle stress?
I believe by effectively communicating and having a realistic perspective on tasks and opportunities in my life keeps the stress levels at a minimum. As a business owner I have to understand my service and product in its entirety. The desire for my handbags is on the rise, but the supply is one that is currently distributed in a unique manner.
I use my ability to be creative not just in my artwork but in my process and procedures to better serve the customer as well as my ability to manage it all. I guess you could say I specialize in customizing life’s challenges to make them out to be opportunities. Other practical
I use my ability to be creative not just in my artwork but in my process and procedures to better serve the customer as well as my ability to manage it all. I guess you could say I specialize in customizing life’s challenges to make them out to be opportunities. Other practical
Many artist cave under peer pressure. What keeps you sane and grounded?
I have learned that destiny does not consist of competition; the only pressure it presents is the ability for you to follow it and or lead it down the right path. I stay grounded by knowing that God has his hand in the success of my Handbags.
We live in a critical world and many judge before truly knowing the person. How do you deal with criticism?
I welcome constructive criticism; it pushes me to learn how to take direction and apply it; which in turns benefits my company as well as myself. Any other type ofcriticism is not to be considered as significant tools to be utilize on my journey.
What would you say to that young girl/boy who has a dream to design/create unique pieces but doesn't have much encouragement around them?
I would say this, look for your destiny to speak, support and guide you. Support can come in so many different ways; one way is by connecting with your surroundings. For an example, I’ve remembered days where I have had a great design in my mind and ready to execute.
The next moment I was doubting the possibilities of it coming to past. I chose to settle myself and depend on my spirituality to guide me. Also I take the time to sit and admire some of my designs from the beginnings and allow my progress to encourage me for the next day. I say to the dreamer, you are your biggest fan so never stop believing in yourself!
The next moment I was doubting the possibilities of it coming to past. I chose to settle myself and depend on my spirituality to guide me. Also I take the time to sit and admire some of my designs from the beginnings and allow my progress to encourage me for the next day. I say to the dreamer, you are your biggest fan so never stop believing in yourself!
As an African America woman, how important is it to have your the support of your sister friends/family/supporters?
I find it rewarding to have the support of my family, friends and supporters. I find it aprivilege to have African American women Legends, Icons and Role Models that have paved the way for me. I have the privilege of having successful friends that are taking on some of the same paths of entrepreneurship.
Most of all my dearest supporter and role model is my mother, who has held my hand every step of the way and constantly reminds me she is proud of my accomplishments. So its important to have a support group but even more important to have their encouraging words and love embedded in your heart, just in case they can’t physically be there.
Most of all my dearest supporter and role model is my mother, who has held my hand every step of the way and constantly reminds me she is proud of my accomplishments. So its important to have a support group but even more important to have their encouraging words and love embedded in your heart, just in case they can’t physically be there.
In three words: Describe Tish Odds.!
House.... Hold.....Name. Lol! Relentless, Creative, Dreamer
"I stay grounded by knowing that God has his hand
in the success of my Handbags"
Share with our readers what "Odds Design" is about and where do you see your brand headed in the next three years.
Odds Design seeks to be the leading brand in custom handbags, my mission is to innovate and intrigue through every design; while exuding luxury, style and an essence of tangible fantasy right in the palm of your hand. Odds Design is not just a bag but a CLUTCHING experience.
I can assure you that my desire for Odds Design in the next three years is to continue building lasting relationships that will stage platforms for my company’s mission to speak to aspiring artist/designers. I also see my designs in reputable boutiques (Onebeing my own) and breaking down the doors of art galleries screaming loud and clear…”Fashion is Art and Art is Fashion”!
We love the vision and work ethic that Tish Odds possesses. It is evident that she is focused and on the right path as she creates masterpiece after masterpiece with her unique gifting. Be sure and peruse her spot and support this empowering boss-lady.
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