Today we’d like to introduce you to Kim Johnson.
Hi Kim, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers.
On the day, VP Kamala Harris was elected, I was so elated that I wanted to celebrate her with a collection of hoodies and tee. I literally spent my entire weekend building my site and designing a collection to honor VP Harris. Some of our most notable sayings were, “Grabbed Him by the Ballot”, “My VP is Black,” and “Your VP is an HBCU Grad.” We received an overwhelmingly warm reception.
From there, we went on to build a community and connect with other professionals that are thriving in Corporate America yet still love Trap Music. We have been able to bond over the struggles of working a 9-5 and the desire to build generational wealth.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road has been pretty smooth overall. I think my biggest challenge has been just adjusting to seasonality and knowing when to release certain items. I had to learn to plan for Christmas in September so that I would be ready for Black Friday. I’ve had those growing pains so now I try to be 2-3 months ahead of new releases.
We’ve been impressed with Professional Hoodrat, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
The Professional Hoodrat was founded in November of 2020 by DMV Native, Kimberly Johnson. Johnson started The Professional Hoodrat with a collection of streetwear to celebrate the election of our nation’s first Black Vice President. From there, she went on to create streetwear with a message geared specifically to people thriving in Corporate America that still love Trap Music. With messages ranging from “Minding the Business that Pays Me” to “Building Generational Wealth,” the Professional Hoodrat prides itself on creating a brand that speaks to the masses. There’s literally something for everyone.
In 2021, The Professional Hoodrat received the prestigious honor of the Buy From a Black Woman Clothing Line of the Year and we have been nominated for the 2022 Clothing Line of the year. They have been featured in subscription boxes as well as recognized on several podcasts including, “Black at Work”, “His Mama, Her Son,” and “For a Black Girl.” The Professional Hoodrat is currently available for purchase online as well as at two retailers that celebrate Black Owned Businesses, Curate Noir and The Sistah Shop. In addition to consistently growing their own brand, The Professional Hoodrat also supports other businesses by creating custom apparel for their brands. The Professional Hoodrat is proud of its consistent 5-star reviews and intends to take over the world, one hoodie, and t-shirt at a time.
The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and are any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
Since we were birthed during Covid, I’ve just learned to plan as far ahead as possible. You never know when there will be a shipping delay that could prevent me from delivering my customer’s merchandise which is the worst feeling ever.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.professionalhoodrat.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/professional_hoodrat
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheProfessionalHoodrat
