Meet Hazel Sterling | Artwear Designer, Doula, Mama, Community Caregiver

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

Hi Hazel, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
One theme within my life that I recognized in early adulthood was that I had this inclination to be a positive contributor to my community by utilizing my strengths & gifts that were directly connected to what I was passionate about. I wanted to find true delight and live in purpose. A few of the things that I was/am “passionate about” are visual arts (my truest forms of expression where i can explore what words often cannot & capture different facets of creation), youth empowerment, education and engagement, along with community wellness. In tandem to that, I felt the need to be liberated from the social or labor construct we have been given in society. As I became a parent, I also recognized how time could easily slip away from forging everlasting moments and it didn’t settle well nor align with my spirit & outlook on motherhood. I had the sense that cultivating something of my own, business wise, was always in the cards. Yet, as life has it, I had to be thrusted into making it a reality with a little external encouragement.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am really a Jane of all trades, hehe. The heart of my work is Em’pirean Artwear & In Good Comp’nee, the hub for my doula and community services. With Em’pirean, I do pride myself on how I utilize art to produce purposeful messaging through every day, casual wear…in an exciting way. It also gives way for me to collaborate with others in making personalized pieces for them – while exposing their individuality & innovative side. I also am a ‘former’ educator and so I also engage in bringing the arts/designing side to youth and make it accessible to them. I also am a doula and I do view birthwork as an artistry of sorts. Because of its intention, deep connection to humanity and the art of holding space and creating experiences that resonate in emotional and spiritual ways….just like art.
At first and occasionally still, it can be challenging because I work around the clock to create pieces that are one of one (typically all sketched and hand painted) as well as navigate the back end of the more business side that must be tended to like any other business. As we all know, birth is also very unpredictable and I must be prepared at any given moment. I believe I am able to overcome the challenges by reminding myself of my WHY and be present in gratitude because I am able to do what I love to do & give back to youth and community.
Lessons I’ve learned along the way are: -being conscious of time is essential. When working for self, you are around the clock and so, being able to make effective gains and staying focused on any facet of your life, time management is extremely important. – loving what you do does make a lot of aspects of work easier and feels much more valuable. Being able to say I am working towards my family and I’s sustainability , establishing a foundation for them and supporting other families is so fulfilling. Lastly, Failing is a perspective. Instead of looking at it from that lens, I turn to look at it as hands on research. What did I learn, what worked, what didn’t and how can I shift or what can I try next?
If I could inform the world about my story…ooh, that’s heavy…I’d share that every thing I have my hands in, is rooted in righteous servitude & intentionality. We thrive & community’s thrive when we serve with integrity and with a humble cadence . My life’s purpose is to be the light in spaces I share with others and produce good fruit (& cool things to wear) with what I share with the world.

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.
I love my home area because it is a melting pot of so many dope things from music to food to wine. So I’d say as someone who enjoys the outdoors (when the weather is superb) and understands the unparalleled beauty of California : Stinson Beach for a stunning ocean view , Reinhardt Redwoods for the beautiful, green hikes and trails, & Grizzly Peak for a nice cityscape of several Bay cities during day or night. I also love a good, live show so checking out who’s in town or performing at some of my fave spots like The New Parish or The Paramount in Oakland is always apart of the vibe. Hitting up Napa Valley/Calistoga for a mud bath and winery trip is a time to be had with a group of friends and/or family. As far as food, Willows & Pine in Oakland offers some amazing creole food with the best vegan options, Oyo in Pleasanton for some Caribbean delicacies and Salt and Straw for yummy dessert. It’s crazy because when put on the spot, I go blank but the options are endless, lol!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I love this. There are many vessels instrumental to who & where I am. I contribute all things & each day I rise to my Creator; being the standard of how I show up in the world and the love I give. I also must recognize my children for teaching me the true elements of patience, growth, pure joy, endurance and of course their own unique reflection of love.
Lastly, the author bell hooks. Her books found me at such a crucial point of developing self awareness & in a deep evolution state. I felt they magnified what my outlook on love and human connection meant. Also, a much needed & very honorable mention to those that I call my community/family/tribe. Thank you for anchoring me in love and light.

Instagram: @empireanclothingo & @ingoodcompnee_

Other: Provided above are my business instagram pages.