Meet Yo Hatdawg | Headwear Streetwear Designer, Inventor and Motivator

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

Hi Yo, how did you come up with the idea for your business?
My love for hats began at a very young age. Everyone that knows me has always seen me with a hat on my head. Throughout my life, I have adored, collected, and worn hats of all types, shapes, and sizes. Not only do I love wearing hats, but I also have a passion for styling hats. I discovered that It’s not just the hat, it’s how you style the hat that truly makes the hat feel and look like art on the head. My hunger for style and art in a hat uncovered a greater itch for me to create my own line of headwear. The day I proudly displayed my first branded ball cap on my business mentor’s desk is an anti-climactic moment I will never forget.

My mentor’s expressionless shrug is etched in my memory. Instead of the lavish praise I had hoped for, he said, “Young man, there’s nothing special about these designs. Take them back to the drawing board and show me something unique, because this is not it.” I thanked him for the feedback, gathered my samples, and left the office. Though I felt deflated, my dream remained alive, and I became determined to show him that I had something special within me!

On a gut level, I knew my mentor’s advice was sound, but I had a problem. “I knew I couldn’t get by with mass-produced products and brand logos if I truly wanted to design one-of-a-kind hats,” “And I had no clue how to do the cutting, sewing, and product development a custom streetwear headwear business required.”

On the bright side, I suddenly had boundless time to pursue my goal as the entire planet went into global lockdown. So, each Friday afternoon, I strapped on a face mask and carried my portable sewing machine to beginner sewing classes.

When I sat down for the first time in front of a sewing machine, something almost magical occurred. I felt a profound sense of peace wash over me.

“I felt an inner presence guiding me that is impossible to describe,” I remember. “Ever since that first day, it remains with me. Like breathing, the practice of design comes both automatically and deliberately.” This is where YoHaTdawg was born.

I didnt expect to create the perfect hat on my first second or even third try, I made a ton of mistakes. I attended class diligently every Friday, crafting numerous hats, honing my skills and redefining my designs. Overtime I became proficient at it. I have not shared this before, but I not only wore hats every day, all day; I even slept with a hat and carried one around with me, studying every aspect of its functionality and how I was going to create something different from anything on the market. My mentor, Mr. Zimmerman challenged me to do just that. So I did.

I invented the patent pending, interchangeable, reversible YoHaTdawg HAT that allows the wearer to create different styles and multiple looks all in the same hat. Thats not all though, The storage compartment allows you to carry and store your go to items such as cash, credit cards, keys, hair ties, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, daily vitamins, medications, snacks, vape pen, condom, sunglasses, ear buds, chap stick, lip stick, tampon, even a mobile phone and more. It’s not just the run of the mill a hat, Its a YoHaTdawg HAT and what it does is a revolutionary way to wear a hat. We are excited to announce our Bag & Brim Collection launching October 2024. Visit YoHaTdawg 7372 Melrose Ave to be among the first to experience our must-have groundbreaking innovative hat.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
What sets me apart from others is my unique approach to design—I am an artist, and my canvas is a hat. Each piece I create is a handmade one-of-a-kind expression that reflects my personal journey and vision. YoHaTdawg Hats are designed from my heart with love for those who dare to be different, for those who embrace their individuality and aren’t afraid to show it. YoHaTdawg Hats were created for you to stand out. As a self-taught designer with no formal training, I’ve embraced the challenge of learning through experimentation and exploration. YoHaTdawg is a story telling brand. The designs tell a story of overcoming adversity, transforming life’s darkest moments into sources of strength and inspiration. Wearing a YoHaTdawg HaT becomes a reminder that even in tough times, we can rise, adapt and shine brighter than before. There are two sides to me: one is my artistry and creativity, and the other is my dedication to personal and spiritual growth. I focus on overcoming doubt and fear while cultivating a strong belief in my abilities as an artist and my faith. This commitment to self-discovery infuses my work with authenticity and passion, allowing me to craft hats that are not just accessories; they are the star attraction and wearable art that tells a story unlike any other.

My journey to where I am today has been shaped by relentless hard work and an unwavering determination to never give up, no matter the challenges I faced. I’ve learned invaluable lessons through countless mistakes, each one guiding me closer to my vision. I refused to accept the idea that “it’s just a hat”—to me, every piece I create is a manifestation of my dreams and creativity. Deep inside, I knew there was no turning back; the passion I felt pushed me to always rise above obstacles and difficulties. With each setback, I found new strength, and that resilience has been the driving force behind my growth as a entrepreneur, inventor and designer, shaping my identity and fueling my commitment to bringing innovative and unique headwear to life. I don’t just make hats, I make hats come alive!

What I am most proud of is the person I have become along this journey. Building my headwear streetwear business has not been an easy path; I’ve faced numerous obstacles that tested my resolve and challenged my beliefs. There have been numerous days without sales, and I’ve felt the urge to give up. Maintaining a storefront in today’s market is challenging. However, I trust in my abilities and believe that God is guiding me. Through it all, I’ve cultivated patience and understanding, learning to be kinder to myself in moments of fear and doubt. Each challenge has strengthened my faith in God and my vision while reinforcing the importance of trusting the process. I’ve learned that success isn’t linear and that growth often comes from navigating the unexpected twists and turns. It’s about doing what’s in front of me, simply, I just focus on the next indicated task.

As I’ve embraced the reality that I must pivot repeatedly and that things won’t always go as planned, I’ve developed a deeper resilience. Each lesson has taught me to remain open to new possibilities, reinforcing the idea that there’s always another way to reach my goals. This journey has transformed not just my business but also my mindset, allowing me to approach challenges with a sense of curiosity and creativity. I am proud of how far I’ve come and excited for the future, knowing that the growth I’ve experienced has equipped me with the tools to thrive, no matter what lies ahead.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that I am a compassionate person with a big heart. I live my life in integrity. Every day I aim to be the best version of myself. Through years of exploring my spiritual journey, I’ve connected with the greatness within me and have found the courage to share that proudly. I am dedicated to making a positive impact through my journey as a spiritual being with a deep faith in God and as an Inventor and a Headwear Streetwear Designer. My greatest gift and passion lie in sharing my experiences—the challenges, the victories, and the lessons learned along the way—to inspire others in their pursuit of dreams and aspirations. At the heart of YoHaTdawg lies a deep commitment to giving back and uplifting others. This passion is not just a mission; it’s the cornerstone of who I am and what I stand for. With every stitch and design, I strive to empower communities, ensuring that YoHaTdawg plays a role in creating meaningful change and supporting those in need. I aspire to be a beacon of hope, demonstrating that regardless of where you come from or what obstacles you’ve faced, you can achieve great things. My journey reflects resilience and determination, and through my art in a hat, I aim to inspire others to embrace their unique paths and pursue their passions with confidence.

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.
Day 1: Breakfast and Lunch Start your trip at Urth Caffe, a favorite hot spot known for its outdoor seating, perfect for people-watching. The chicken quesadilla is a must-try, and don’t forget the vegan black bean chili—the flavors are to die for!
For lunch, head to Granville on Beverly Blvd. This incredible restaurant offers delicious food and a lovely outdoor dining experience. The lemon-herb Brussels sprouts are out of this world, and their mac and cheese, made with aged cheddar and Gruyère, is truly special. The butter lettuce cups with shrimp are packed with flavor, so trust me, you’ll want to order two! The service at Granville is top-notch, ensuring you feel like a valued guest every time you visit.

Day 2: Exploring West Hollywood Park- Spend the day at West Hollywood Park, a beautiful spot for a picnic, dog-walking (I have a dog named Jerry!), and simply enjoying the scenery. The rooftop swimming pool offers breathtaking views and is free to use. There’s also a library filled with books and art, a basketball court perfect for watching streetball, and Pickleball courts that are fun to watch, even if you don’t play.

Day 3: Dinner and Drinks-Butcher’s Daughter is a must-try. I highly recommend the virgin mojito, which tastes just like the real thing! Their cardamom rose latte is unforgettable—a true favorite. My go-to dish is the sourdough stone oven white truffle mushroom pizza, packed with flavor. The white pizza, featuring figs, feta, mozzarella, walnuts, and caramelized onions, will hit all your taste buds and have you smiling from the inside out. It’s truly a special pizza made with love.

Day 4: Wine Tasting in the Arts District For a relaxing evening, head to the Arts District, which is full of activities. Pali Wine Co. offers a great selection of wines, and their six-wine tasting flight is a must-try. With an outdoor terrace for people-watching, the atmosphere is vibrant, and the service is excellent, so plan ahead as it can get busy. Exploring the vibrant Arts District in Los Angeles, you can wander through colorful galleries, enjoy street art, visit unique boutiques, and savor delicious food from local eateries. It’s a full-day experience.

Day 5: Topanga Canyon A trip to Topanga Canyon is highly recommended! The area is filled with charming shops, cozy coffee spots, and lovely restaurants. Don’t miss the hike at Solstice Canyon; the ocean views are breathtaking. Stop by Café 27 for their famous house cakes—try the Swedish chocolate cake and the baklava cake; you’ll want to take some home! Also, the salmon hash, with dill hollandaise, is a one-of-a-kind favorite. The Maine lover’s lobster roll, featuring a peppercorn sauce, is another hit. Topanga Canyon is perfect for a full day of exploration; once you arrive, you won’t want to leave.

Day 6: Cultural Experience at the Getty Villa. Immerse yourself in Greek and Roman art and architecture. It feels like stepping into Greece, with exhibits showcasing art and culture dating from 6,500 BC to 400 AD. More than just a museum, this Roman villa offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient Greece, Rome, and Etruria. It’s a must-see staple in Los Angeles, right in the heart of the city of angels.

Day 7: Relax and Reflect On your final day, take a leisurely stroll through any of your favorite spots from the week, perhaps revisiting Granville or Urth Caffe. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, savor your favorite dishes, and reflect on a week well spent in Los Angeles!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to give a huge shoutout to SCORE mentoring and CoFounders Lab: Neil Soni, Brian Pia, Raymond Zimmerman, Shody Chow, Roger Nagel and Jeanie Banks for their incredible support on my journey as a Entrepreneur and a Headwear Streetwear Designer building a startup. Their one-on-one sessions and the small group workshops have been invaluable, providing me with expert guidance and practical insights tailored to my startup. The mentors not only shared best practices that helped refine my business strategy, but they also educated me on essential topics like business planning, marketing and financial management. The mentors at SCORE and CoFounders Lab provided invaluable perspectives and feedback when running business problems and ideas by them, helping to identify potential pitfalls and opportunities for growth. Their collective experience and diverse insights empowered me to make informed decisions and refine my strategies with confidence. Their encouragement and wealth of experience have empowered me to navigate the challenges of launching YoHaTdawg with confidence. Thanks to CoFounders Lab and SCORE, I feel more equipped turning my vision into reality and make a mark in the headwear streetwear scene!

Website: https://www.yohatdawg.com

Instagram: @yohatdawg

Other: TikTok-@yohatdawg

Image Credits
All Images are owned and property of YoHaTdawg, LLC