We had the good fortune of connecting with Natalie Esi Fletcher and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Natalie Esi, is there a quote or affirmation that’s meaningful to you?
One of my favorite Moguls and Businessman, Shawn Carter, better known as Jay-Z, once said, “I believe everyone in the world is born with genuis level talent. Apply yourself to whatever your genius at, and you can do anything in the world.” My “genius level talent” has always been connected to my culture, love for fashion and style. I started planting my creative seeds over 15 years ago and worked in Corporate America for over a decade. Since being furloughed in March due to our Global Pandemic, my small business has been my motivation, inspiration, therapy, and self care. I’ve applied all of my time and dedication to that and my life has been full of joy, passion and positive energy.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
For the past decade I’ve worked as a Corporate Recruiter for one of the leading Staffing Agencies in Southern Calfornia. I transitioned from Teaching in Elementary Education to now recruiting, hiring and placing Pre-School Directors, Teacher’s and Assistants in Childcare Facilities and Headstart Programs throughout Los Angeles County. I had no previous hiring experience coming into this new career, but I knew what to look for. I didn’t initially have a mentor or someone to look up to so I had to learn fast and do my own research. I learned very early on that you have to put in the work, or as I call it, “plant your seeds.” You have to believe in yourself, never give up and always be willing to help others. I nurtured positive, strong partnerships with Community Colleges and State Universities Child Development Departments and Career Centers. I developed relationships with EDD and LA County Professionals to offer employment to women and men seeking a career in Teaching and/or Education. To be in a position where you are able to give another individual an opportunity to be great, to be successful, is truly rewarding and such a blessing. What I’m most proud of is when I run into students or teachers that I’ve hired and mentored and hear their testimonies on how I impacted their lives in some way. That’s one of the most fulfilling positions that you could ever get appointed to do in this lifetime. My career as a Recruiter definitely prepared me for current journey as a Creative Designer and Entrepreneur. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 I was furloughed from my full time job in March. As of now there is no return date. During this time all of my blood, sweat and tears has been poured into NitzByNat (NBN). What I want others to know is that we are an Afrocentric Statement Jewelry Collection that promotes self love through culture and fashion. We empower women to be Bold, Vibrant and Creative with their personal style. Our Brand’s legacy is based on the NBN Fashionista Fundamentals: Self Love, Culture, Community, Sisterhood and Empowerment. My small business is thriving and can’t wait to see what’s next.

Any great local spots you’d like to shoutout?
Some of my favorite “to-do’s” in the city revolve around Brunch Sunday’s, Happy Hour’s, Sport’s Bars, a Dinner Dates or hanging at the Beach. Taco Tuesday is a good day to get out for an ice cold mango margarita with some chips and guac at Fiesta Martin in Inglewood, Kaydave’s Cantina in Downtown Culver City or Rosa Mexican in Downtown LA by the Staple Center. During the week I may grab a bite to eat at the Yardhouse or Cabo Cantina in Marina Del Rey or The Melody Bar near Westchester. If you want to get a little fancy on a Friday right you can hit Catch LA in Hollywood, Perch in DTLA or the GS Sport’s Lounge & Bar in Inglewood. Of course we’re known for our great weather so the weekend may include a beach day at Hermosa, Malibu or Santa Monica Beach. Sunday Brunch at Matro’s in Malibu is delish. Cafe Sierra, The Hilton Hotel Universal City, Blue Jam Cafe or the Court Cafe off of Centinela in LA are go to’s as well. Their catfish and grits will have you licking your lips. Great food and awesome customer service.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to shoutout several QUEENS, Black Owned Business Professionals that have supported my success along my entrepreneurial journey. First, Fatima Dodson, Owner of Brick and Mortar Runway Boutique LA in the West Adams Community. I was introduced to her by a mutual friend in 2016. She supports local small business owner’s by curating Pop Up Shops for Artisans to display their creativity. I’ve had the opportunity to participate in many events including her annual Headwraps in Park, located in Grand Park of DTLA. Next, Quida Thortan, Designer & Owner of HIIQ Creations. A Brand that specializes in Kimonos, Kaftans and much more. She motivates me when I want to give up, encourages me when I doubt my purpose and pushes me to go harder when she knows I can do more. I appreciate her love, support and overall vibe. Next, I would like to also thank my South LA Cafe Family. A place were people can grab coffee, shop, collab and connect with their community. Celia Ward, one of the Co-Owners approched me last Fall about showcasing my brand in their establishment. Their mission is about helping people, families and other small businesses. I appreciate their support and impact on the culture. Lastly, Nicole Vick, a dope Fashionista & Health Care Professional. I had the pleasure of meeting her through Fatima. We vibes and instantly because attracted to each other’s personal style. She has become one my my favorite VIP customers and has even opened up her home to Small Business Owner’s for her Annual Style Vixen Holiday Pop Up Market. She supports women and most importantly small businesses. She recently released an Amazon Best Seller called “Pushing Through: Finding the Light In Every Lesson. She’s hopeful, takes action and serves her community.

Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/NitzByNat
Instagram: instagram.com/nitzbynat
Facebook: facebook.com/nitzbynat
Other: linktr.ee/nitzbynat

Image Credits
Luzolo Natalie E. Fletcher

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