Meet DeAndre Ballard: Founder- Design Director of Shattered Dreams

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

Hi DeAndre, what do you attribute your success to?
The most important factor behind my success is learning from my mistakes. Believing in myself and having faith that everything will work out. The challenges of starting your own clothing line/ business is a difficult journey. I learned that embracing your failures and learning from them, makes you stronger and the brand stronger. The success of my brand comes from my growth as a person and experiences in life. I am following my dream of designing high quality clothing. I want to inspire my customers to follow their dreams!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
When I created Shattered Dreams, I wanted to inspire my customers to follow their dreams. Shattered Dreams is a movement and it means don’t let failure stop you, from achieving your Dreams. Sometimes our dreams are shattered and it’s easy to quit but fall in love with the process and pick up the pieces. I want the world to know that I am following my dreams and you should too. Life’s is short and we can all learn so much from failure. My logo is a Black Panther with flames in his eyes. The logo represent strength, desire, passion and never giving up. My logo, quality and story is what separates me from other clothing brands.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
In Los Angeles there are too many great restaurants to choose from. One of my favorite restaurants I like to visit is MoonShadow in Malibu. They have great seafood and drinks. The view is amazing and who doesn’t like eating by the beach. Next, I would definitely go to Mastro’s to eat a nice steak. I love to go to Hermosa beach and going shopping on Melrose. I would definitely go visit the Pasadena Flea market and find some rare vintage clothing. Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My sister ( Tenita Ballard) always been a supporter since day one. She gave me the confidence and encouragement that I needed. My sister always gave me great advice throughout my life. So, when I pitch the idea to her about me starting my own clothing line. She quickly said do it because I had a strong passion for fashion. She explained to me it’s not going to be easy but you have the talent and work ethic to become successful. She told me to make a business plan and gave me the tools to become successful. Honestly, if I didn’t have her support or encouragement, I don’t think I would have pursue starting a business. She’s a great role model and life coach! She’s a giving person and always want the best for her family & friends. My sister always taught me having a strong work ethic will take you far. I also want to dedicate this to my grandmother who always made blankets and stuff animals for me. She was very creative in creating custom blankets with different fabrics such as denim, suede & corduroy. As a kid, I just remember my granny sewing and always making clothing & blankets. I believe subconsciously, she started my love for fashion and fabrics. My granny always taught me to have a strong faith in God and everything will work out.

Website: Www.ShatteredDreamsco.com

Instagram: Shattered.dreamsco

Image Credits
@Btophotos, @twesdidthat