We had the good fortune of connecting with Dan Pearson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dan, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
“I want to start off by saying this isn’t a bio about my business, this is the story of Ostrich Braille.”-Dan Pearson. Love for the bird and respect for the blind. The ostrich is my favorite animal so I wanted to incorporate that into my brand. In my early 20s I worked with the mentally challenged and built a relationship with a kid that was blind and paralyzed. We were able to relate through music and him asking about the brands he would hear in the songs. So I would bring in clothing from these different brands for him to feel, I would close my eyes with him realizing it was more about quality, textures, and details—things that you could actually feel. I wanted to create a brand that I could stand by and sign my name to. I got the idea to incorporate braille on our garments along with embroidery so those that can’t see Ostrich Braille can still feel Ostrich Braille.

It started with an idea, I made a plan, and saw it through. You’re only as good as your paperwork, so when I found out the name Ostrich Braille was available, I started getting creative and learning the industry. It has taken dedication, sacrifice and a lot of hard work. It wasn’t easy but my passion and love for fashion kept me going.I learned something from everyone along the way. Everyday people I see, I read vibes and auras. Vibes are how I live my life. I draw inspiration from that and dare to live. The biggest lesson I have learned is the power of knowledge and information. I am most proud of myself for learning the business, keeping my feng shui and not giving up..

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a true designer and am proud to have learned how to actually make garments. I am hands on from start to finish and that is what sets me apart. Our fabric is created by spinning raw supima cotton into thread, the thread is then woven into fabric to construct our blanks. We are based in Los Angeles; we are manufactured in Los Angeles, and we employ Los Angeles. We love Los Angeles. I did not let unexpected obstacles that surfaced throughout this journey deter me, instead I continued with my mission to create quality garments from start to finish. I want the world to know that my name is Dan Pearson and I stand behind Ostrich Braille from start to finish. Dare to live -Thank you, Dan Pearson.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Griddle Cafe for breakfast right off the plane, it’s a reflection of Hollywood because everything there is big! Next stop-Ostrich Braille Headquarters to give them a dose of my day to day life
Time for a drink, my go to drink is an Old Fashion, best place to get that is at my buddy Trevor’s house.
Catch a game or show
Time for dinner- Head to Providence where you would eat the best of what is in season at this Michlin star restaurant
Fairfax flea market on Sundays to catch a local vibe and pick up vintage goods
Culver City Stairs for a scenic work out
Hit the local bar to catch some good R&B and hiphop jams- The Dime
For the best dinner in town ,invite only, is my house .

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to shoutout my family, for the support and encouragement. My older brother Tony who sparked my interest in fashion. My father who taught discipline, gave me structure, and taught the business world to me. And most importantly my mother, who always told me to be loud, proud, fearless, and to remain true to myself.

Website: Ostrichbraille.com

Instagram: Ostrichbraille

Image Credits
Steve Tirana

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