Today we’d like to introduce you to Jeneba Barrie.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Jeneba. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Back in 2011, my sister and I attended a graduation party for my brother in law. We noticed that we both had on the same identical “nude” pumps from guess. Like the dorks we are, we got excited that we were twinning for the day. But, I started thinking, “why are these shoes called ‘nude?”‘ They certainly do not resemble my or my sister’s skin-tone.
I started thinking about whether there were brands that offered true nude shoes. A quick search of the web revealed a negative result. I started thinking that maybe, just maybe, there is a need for shoes that match the wearer’s skin tone. That was my AHA moment.
I officially launched in 2018, after seven years of self-doubt, lack of financial resources and completing my legal education.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not been a smooth road, but it has been worth it. My main struggle was funding. We self-financed this venture and that was also the reason why we were slow to launch the process. Also, finding a manufacturer that works with a small brand was tough. Most manufacturers have a MOQ (minimum order) that is just not feasible for smaller brands. We finally found a manufacturer last May. By far, financial and finding a trusted partner in manufacturing were the biggest struggles.
My advice will be to hang in there. If you have a product or an idea that you are very passionate about, just keep going. Be patient and trust the process. Research, research, research. It is hard to take advantage of someone who is knowledgeable about every aspect of their business/craft.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Jeneba Barrie Nude Footwear – what should we know?
I am the founder and creative director of Jeneba Barrie Nude Footwear. As a brand, I am proud of the fact that we are offering true nude pumps for everyone women. For far too long, the market has had a very restrictive definition of “nude” shoes–one or two shades of beige. That excludes a huge amount of the population. Our brand brings these women back into the fold and lets them know that they are valued and included.
What sets my brand apart from others is the inclusivity and diversity. Our brand is known as “the ultimate nude pumps,” that is not just a saying, but it is a philosophy. We currently have 13 true to hue skin-tone shades–the most on the market… and we are just getting started.
So much of the media coverage is focused on the challenges facing women today, but what about the opportunities? Do you feel there are any opportunities that women are particularly well positioned for?
Of course! Women are far more powerful than society lets on. I believe women are well-positioned to not only be their own bosses but to run and lead high ranking positions. I believe that women can be amazing leaders because they are accustomed to running households, while some also work a regular 9-5. Women also have emotional intelligence and because of this, women are also well positioned to be in the courtroom as judges, in the board room as CEO’s and in the state and federal houses as lawmakers.
Pricing:
- $295.00/pair
- Made in Italy
- Italian nappa leather upper or Italian suede upper
- Leather construction: lining, insole & outsole
- Cushioned insole
Contact Info:
- Address: 13355 Noel Rd., ste.1100
Dallas, TX 75240 - Website: https://jenebabarrie.com/
- Email: jeneba@jenebabarrie.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeneba_barrie/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jenebabarriefootwear/?ref=bookmarks
Image Credit:
Norman Jones
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.
