Today we’d like to introduce you to Antwon James.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Antwon. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
A. D. James Holdings, LLC. was started from a hobby I had of doing graphic work for family and close friends. My brother would always urge me to turn my hobby into a business, but I never thought I was skilled enough to charge for what I did. Along with doing graphic work I have a huge passion for management and administration, it’s my strongest skill set. In 2011, I was a de facto Vice President of a company and had settled in to that position comfortably, however, abruptly in October of that year things changed. I live by a simple motto, “What goes around comes around.” So after a brief bout of contention I knew it was time for me to move on. I was a tad bit depressed but I decided that this was time to start my own company. When I first incorporated we were Elite Enterprises eventually transforming into who we are today. I realized that all those years I spent in the driver’s seat of the other company was actually my on the job lesson on business operations.
Since November 1, 2011 just under $100, 000 has been invested into the brand through investments and loans. We have come a long way since 2011, and while we still have a long road to travel we’ve done more than most could imagine. We have graduated from just graphics into a wide array of administrative, graphic/web design management and many other services offered to churches, businesses and non-profits. One portion of what we do is give back, we frequently build platforms for other emerging entrepreneurs and start-ups to help them around the obstacles I had starting up. Most times we offer them a six-month to year agreement of free service to aid them in their endeavors.
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?
I would have to ask what exactly a smooth road feels like. Certainly, it hasn’t been a huge disaster, but this journey has seen its share of turbulence. The major factor we had starting out and even now is finding and obtaining working capital. The products and services we offer help us pay the bills but a working cash flow keeps the ship from running aground.
I believe this to be one of the greatest setbacks and stall issues of entrepreneurship and start-ups. Growing up and in particular in the African-American culture we are taught to be everything except financially secure and maintain a good credit score. Now, I’m thankful eternally for my lessons on life, but had I had a lesson on financial stewardship I think our company and many others would be approaching Fortune status. At 30, I have grasped the concept, but that barrier formed form my younger years of credit card splurges now hinder growth.
While our politicians in Austin and in D. C. tout economic growth and avenues for small business funding, they also come up with so much tape to cut through, you’ll get discouraged. Our banks also tout their friendly giving but don’t inform you, you need to be making near millions just to get $60, 000 loan.
Last month the decision was made to cut two divisions because of low working capital, it was a huge decision but one that needed to be met.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about A. D. James Holdings – what should we know?
A. D. James Holdings, LLC. is known for our blunt and unfiltered honesty. I was raised in a home were the truth was told even when it hurt, and it’s that same philosophy I infuse into the company. We specialize in working with churches, businesses and non-profits, helping them keep a well-oiled administrative front. We have the ability offer almost every service needed for business management and administration with the exception of legal advice. Along with that we offer a web site package priced to fit any budget.
The company has a focus on 4 business industry sectors: Arts & Entertainment, Funeral Service, Transportation and Business Consulting. The arts & entertainment sector is handled through Crown Arts & Entertainment which has a purpose of producing, managing and investing in landmark artists, innovators & creators. We are on track with becoming a YouTube verified partner, along with investing in independent web series producers. Since I can remember I have worked in funeral service, so naturally we have Signature Memorial Services that focuses on web design for funeral establishments, as well as assisting them in funeral service matters of management and administration. We also have invested in independent funeral establishments and plans are in the works to open a flagship establishment within the next few years. The transportation sector is still developing and will fall under Crown Transportation which will focus on corporate & leisure travel to include limousines, motor coaches, tour packaging and ride hailing services. Business consulting is our general area of business that consists of pulling resources in from various areas as needed.
I have designed our brand, our company to be a full in-house dependent machine only needing out services as required. If we can’t do something, if we make a mistake you won’t hear any company representative with excuses, we own it and correct it. You are doomed when you try to lie to cover up mistakes, admit them, learn from them and grow. We must also be not afraid to stand firm on policies and procedures we have in place. I don’t not subscribe to the motto of entitlement, “The customer is always right.” We treat each client the same, we don’t sugarcoat anything and there are no special treatments, we do everything in excellence and elegance.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Honesty. Without thinking twice, it has to be the hallmark of success. When you build on lies, inconsistency and deceit it is only a matter of time before that building comes crumbling down. You will find that success comes easier with the truth than it does with anything else.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.adjhllc.com
- Phone: (844) 535-8577
- Email: business@adjhllc.com
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/adjhllc
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/adjhllc
- Other: https://www.antwondjames.com
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