Today we’d like to introduce you to Courtney Antoinette.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I have always been a dreamer. My entire life I was always encouraged to continue to dream big, but for me being a world traveler was surprisingly never one of those big dreams. As a young woman from the small city of Burlington NC, international travel always seemed as farfetched to me as traveling to outer space. The only exposure I had to other countries growing up was through geography or history books, and I never once saw a woman who looked like me out exploring these countries.
It was not until my mid-20s that I discovered that my happy place was in an economy class seat over 30,000 feet in the sky. One afternoon, I came across an Instagram picture of two of my favorite young business moguls (Ming Lee, and Karen Civil) sitting in the middle of the beautiful Dubai desert having the time of their lives. I immediately sent the picture to one of my cousins with the message, “This is going to be us one day…. Actually, this is going to be us next year!” The next year, it happened! We were on a plane headed to Dubai, on our first trip out of the country. (Your words are powerful!) The trip was absolutely amazing; one of the greatest experiences I had ever had in my life. I wanted others just like me, who were never exposed to such an eye-opening experience, to experience such an exuberating feeling as the one I felt that week.
Not long after that trip, Crowned and Cultured was born. Crowned and Cultured was originally created as an “instablog” to inspire more minorities to travel the world, through my personal photos and positive messages. I wanted greater representation in the world of international travel, but now I want so much more for my community, my blog, and myself. I not only want to inspire people to travel the world, I want people to be inspired to live an adventurous, happy life, whatever that may consist of for them. I want them to spend more time doing things that make them happy and creating a healthy balance in their lives. Expose yourself to good times, new experiences, more knowledge, and protect your mental health. I use travel to do just that, but everyone is different. If I can inspire you to explore a new country, that would give me great joy, but inspiring you to do the things that bring you the most happiness gives me an even greater sense of joy.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Building a brand, starting a blog, or becoming an influencer is never easy. It is truly another full-time job, and it is a lot harder than some may think. My journey is just beginning. When I first had the thought of starting Crowned and Cultured, I almost talked myself out of it. I did not know if I had enough travel experience to speak or post on the subject of travel, but I knew I wanted to share the little experience I did have at the time. I told myself I would wait until I had a few more countries under my belt to give myself a little more credibility, but a friend/ family member encouraged me to start with what I have. I am forever grateful for that advice. I think my audience has an appreciation for my journey. I am 8 countries in now, and they have traveled with me to them all! I think it makes me relatable. Sometimes I have to remind myself that although there are so many travel bloggers and clothing brands out there, I have a purpose. I may appeal to a completely different audience, and my message, my personality, and what I stand for, might resonate with someone differently than another blogger. One day I could share exactly what someone needed to hear to start living a happier life.
Please tell us about Crowned and Cultured.
Crowned and Cultured is a travel and lifestyle blog and brand, founded by Courtney Antoinette Caldwell. Through this brand, I aim to inspire others to see the world and live an adventurous, happy life, through travel and other joy-filled activities. I also carry signature merchandise, such as Sweatshirts, t-shirts, hats, fanny packs, and carry-on bags. When you wear the words “Crowned And Cultured” I want it to serve as a reminder that in all that you do and whatever destination you are headed, embrace the culture, and never forget to wear your crown with pride!
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
If I had to start over, I would have definitely started my travel journey sooner. I would have prioritized my spending a lot differently as a teenager. Less money spent on trendy clothes, and eating out, and more money expanding my knowledge (outside of books), investing in my future businesses, and exposing myself to new experiences. Clothes go out of style, but those memories last forever!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.CrownedAndCultured.com
- Email: CrownedandCultured@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/CrownedAndCultured
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/CrownedAndCultured
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/CrownedCultured
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
