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

Hi Jamee, we’d love to hear what makes you happy.
A major thing that makes me happy is making others happy. It could be doing something small yet thoughtful that I know will make them smile. But it could also be speaking something encouraging that will leave an impression on their heart and mind. Thats essentially what I do with my brand Created Image Apparel. I share a message of truth and encouragement to remind people of who they are in God and how He sees them. That type of servitude to those around me and those out in the world makes me happy because I know what its like to forget who I was created to be and how that impacted my life. It also makes me happy because I believe we all deserve to be happy and at our greatest potential in life so knowing that I have had a role in someone’s journey (big or small) is fulfilling.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Created Image Apparel is a christian clothing brand that was birthed through my personal journey of listening to the opinions of the world instead of listening to and believing God. Its a brand with a message to represent and re-present what God says about us and who he called and created us to be. I think this is a major thing that sets us apart from other Christian brands along with the unique designs. A lot of Christian brands you see are focused on catchy church phrases or scriptures and don’t really have imagery. Our brand gives a mixture of words, scriptures, and imagery that invites people to ask “what does that mean” so there is a moment of connection and conversation about the message and how it applies to them personally. We also offer unisex styles and children sizing because the message is relevant to us all.

Starting this brand has not been easy. I am a Social Worker by trade and had no knowledge of the clothing business or even having a business. I took God’s vision and literally just started with a few hundred dollars. I work on building my business at night and on the weekends which isn’t the ideal amount of time. I also don’t have any employees or partners so I am holding it down solo. Did I mention I am a female and the amount of times I get treated differently than my male colleagues? I think overall the saving grace for me (and lesson) is that I understand God is in control and I let Him lead me. The ultimate goal was to spread the message and there was no set amount of people, money, or success attached to it. So that helps me to work at my pace and have peace that Im fulfilling the assignment. God will do the rest.

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.
So I live in Oakland, Ca the heart of the Bay Area. My city is right across the bridge from San Francisco, 90 mins from Napa, and 30-90 mins from some of the best beaches. Since I am a foodie, I would take my friend around to all the best places to eat around the bay area but mainly in Oakland since we have so much diversity here and amazing food options. I would then take them on the ferry to the city (SF) to do some sight seeing, shopping, and more eating. One day we would go up to Napa for some beautiful scenery and wine tasting. Just a taste lol. We would definitely do a beach day and maybe even go to Yosemite to hike. And of course attend church at some point because Im a church girl who loves being involved or just supporting our christian events. There is so much to do in the bay area.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to give a shoutout to my community of entrepreneur friends that have been so helpful and supportive. When I decided to start my business I jumped out there on faith and I have been learning along the way. However, I knew a few people who had already started their businesses who I reached out to for tips, resources, referrals, red flags etc. and they truly came through and continue to be there when I need them.

Website: www.createdimageapparel.com

Instagram: @createdimageapparel

Facebook: www.facebook.com/createdImageApparel

Image Credits
Douglass Doss

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