Meet LaStar Jackson Jr. | Entrepreneur, Fashion Designer & Creative Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with LaStar Jackson Jr. and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi LaStar, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My decision to start my own business was driven by several factors.

Firstly, I have always had a strong desire for independence. I wanted to have control over my own destiny and not be limited by the confines of traditional employment. Secondly, I have a deep passion for the industry I wanted to venture into. I saw an opportunity to turn my passion into a viable business and make a meaningful impact in the market. Additionally, my dissatisfaction with the limitations of traditional employment pushed me to seek out alternative paths where I could have more autonomy and flexibility.

Moreover, I wanted to build something of value that I could potentially pass down to future generations or even sell if the opportunity arose. Creating a legacy and leaving a lasting impact was important to me. While I acknowledge that owning a business entails hard work and challenges, the freedom and sense of fulfillment that comes with ownership outweighs any monetary gain. Overall, these factors combined guided my decision to embark on the journey of entrepreneurship.

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.
Certainly. My art is a reflection of my unique perspective and experiences. What sets me apart is my ability to infuse emotion and storytelling into my pieces, creating a connection with my audience on a deeper level. I’m particularly proud of my use embroidery, vibrant colors and intricate details, which bring my creations to life and evoke strong feelings in the audience. I’m also excited about the evolution of my style and the endless possibilities for experimentation and growth within the realm of art.

My journey to where I am today has been filled with both challenges and triumphs. It definitely wasn’t easy, but each obstacle presented an opportunity for growth. I’ve overcome challenges through perseverance, resilience, and a relentless dedication to my craft. Surrounding myself with a supportive community of fellow artists, designers, and mentors has also been instrumental in my professional development.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the importance of staying true to myself and my vision, even when faced with criticism or doubt. I’ve also learned the value of continuous learning and adaption in an ever-changing industry. Embracing failure as a stepping stone to success and maintaining a positive mindset, even in the face of adversity, has been crucial.

I want the world to know that my brand is more than just clothes-it’s a reflection of my journey, passion, and commitment to creativity. Each piece tells a story and invites the audience to embark on a visual journey with me. I hope to inspire others to pursue their artistic dreams and to find beauty and meaning in every design. My story is one of perseverance, passion, and the power of self-expression, and I’m excited to share it 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.
For a week long trip, I’d showcase the best of what the area has to offer. We’d start by catching a football and basketball to experience the local sports scene. Then, we’d head to Turkey Run State Park for some hiking and outdoor adventure, soaking in the natural beauty of the area.

Of course, staying active is important, so we’d make time for exercise, whether it’s a gym session or a scenic jog through the city. Additionally, I’d take a day trip back to my hometown to indulge in the delicious fare at my favorite mom and pop restaurants, giving my friend a taste of local cuisine and culture.

To add some cultural enrichment to our trip, we’d visit a few art museums, exploring the diverse artistic expressions housed within their walls. And throughout the week, the main focus would be on enjoying each other’s company, whether it’s attending live musical performances, wine tasting, or simply hanging out and making memories together.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely. I’d like to give a heartfelt shoutout to several individuals who have played significant roles in my journey. Firstly, to my family: my mother, Angela; my brother, LaSalle; my sisters, Mackayla and Angelle; my aunties, Ashley, Kylah and Maudeen; my grandmothers, Ophelia and Francine; my uncles, Fat Boy, Jamie, Shawn, Hunt and Charlie; my niece, Lai’Ana; my children, LaStar III, Laila-Star and Amira; and my cousins Sharliah and Techa. Their unwavering support and encouragement have been invaluable to me.

I also want to extend my gratitude to my team and close friends for believing in me.

Additionally, I’d like to shoutout, LaTricia Brannon, Drew Franklin, Tyshon Jermmott, Tyjuan Jermmott, Vanessa Soto, Durrell Martin, Dwayne Surney, Ella Ashwill, Anthony Atkerson, Nick Sejuela, Ron White, Demetrius Armour, and anyone else who has believed in me and continues to do so.

Website: www.saintavenue.co

Instagram: @saintavenue

Twitter: @Saint_Avenue

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Youtube: Saint Avenue

Image Credits
Photographer: Vanessa Soto/Rare Wav