Today we’d like to introduce you to Vontura Eley.
Vontura, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I grew up with my mom in hair school and worked alongside her in different hair salons and boutiques my whole childhood and teenage years. I was braiding hair and doing nails by the age of five, so my story began way before I even realized. Everything my mom did was so cool to me, and I wanted to do it to. I was always her model; I went to so many hair shows and on hair tours with her. She was always creating, and I was right there with her creating too. She gave me the freedom to express myself and most times she even provided the platform. My dad was really into music, I remember him being a producer and having a studio in his basement. Now he’s a successful business owner of 15+ years. Growing up, I was into music, I played the clarinet and tuba in middle school and high school. I did ballet, hip-hop, and jazz dance for years, and theater. I have always loved to read and write and have always been good at it. I have tried so many different things and now that I am older and, in this position, I am grateful to have had the opportunities. It has made me into the person, and Entrepreneur I am today. I definitely take after my parents.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t been a smooth road, not at all. Once I realized that being a designer was something I was passionate about, I had to find a way to present it to the world in hopes that everybody would love it to. I struggled in the beginning with finding my lane and finding my tribe. I quickly realized that just being myself and expressing myself through my craft was enough. I just needed to be consistent, and it’s been up ever since. Focusing on what I can control and doing what I want has been the best strategy for me. It’s like people are going to feel it, or they’re not. At the end of the day, I’m doing what feels right to me.
I recently lost my mom in October, on my birthday. She passed away from COVID-19. She caught it from working in a nursing home, being a healthcare hero. My mom was my best friend so losing her was a major loss for me. It’s still very fresh and it hasn’t been easy, but I understand that I have an assignment and I’m going to see it through to the end. I know what she wanted for me, she invested so much in me and Waisted, so I must keep going. I understand that the path to greatness is not easy, and I try not to question it.
I have a vision for the life I truly want to live, and that’s what motivates me to keep going. My mother inspires me to keep going too. She was dealt a not-so-ideal hand in life, and she still made a way for herself and her children. She had every reason to be hard and unsuccessful, but instead, she chose love and success. That’s what inspires me the most. I know that I have the power to be anything I want to be even if I’m not in my ideal environment. I understand that my life is what I make it and I use the vision I have for myself to keep moving forward. I don’t sit around waiting for people or miracles, I do the work and catch the blessings that come from the seeds I’ve planted and nurtured.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am one of those people that has a hand in a little bit of everything. I am a graphic designer, jewelry designer, blogger, Fashionista, brand strategist & creator. I am most known for my 1-of-1 jewelry, specifically waist beads and bracelets. I am proud of everything that I do. I love how I can make something out of nothing using pure talent, instincts, and my resources. Waisted By Vonnie Co. is size inclusive and gender fluid. We don’t care what size you are or what you’re into, there is something for everybody. I am super proud of that.
I believe what sets me apart from others is that I am me 24/7. That doesn’t change for anything or anybody. I tell people all the time that I’m me first and everything else comes after. My brand is 100% a reflection of me and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
I have learned so much from COVID-19, I almost wish it never happened. The biggest lesson I have learned is to cherish every single moment, especially with the people you love. Give them their flowers while they’re still here.
I have also learned that it’s okay to slow down and take a moment if you need it. Life is not a race; everybody is going through something and we’re all just trying to survive. Lastly, the biggest thing I have learned is that community is everything. It’s so important to have loyal people around you that have your best interest at heart. They will be there to catch you when you fall and help keep you on track.
Pricing:
- Ready to Ship Jewels $18-$75
- Custom Jewels $30-$100
- Sip & Tie Party $75-$300
- Graphic & Branding Services $50-$1,400
Contact Info:
- Email: info@waistedbyvonnie.com
- Website: https://lnk.bio/waistedbyvonnie
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/__waisted_/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/waistedbyvonnie/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/waistedbyvonnie
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCE_FWtKZl65dlfo7ICU_9IA
- Other: https://www.clubhouse.com/@waistedbyvonnie
Image Credits:
Vontura Eley
