Today we’d like to introduce you to Lady B Smoove
Hi Lady B, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
BSmoove’s Creations was created as the merch shop for myself, Lady B Smoove around August 2020, smack dab in the middle of the Covid Pandemic. Just like other performing artist gigging was a no-go and therefore, I needed a way for extra money to come in. My wife is a pastry chef, as well as event decorator and had previously purchased a printer and Cricut machine. Needing to create a new stream of income and to always have merch available at my future shows, I came up with BSmoove’s Creations. So being the nerd that I am I began to research and train myself on how to use the machines. I dove deep into Youtube and Instagram videos and then purchased my Heat Press and the best printer on the market for shirt prints.
I wanted to create merchandise that showcased my quirky artsy side, while creating images that poets and musicians would want to wear on stage or in their business branding pictures via social their media platforms. Bsmoove’s Creations started with printing the logo for Lady B Smoove, covid face masks, and lots of 420 friendly gear.
As I began creating and coming up with ‘sayings’ to go on shirts I began to realize I could create more items. So I started creating my own labels, cards, even created cups and other household items with my logo. This also gave me the opportunity to speak louder on things pressing in my community and the country. Topics like LGBTQ Pride, Black History, Homelessness, even the 2020 Presidential race. Once I was able to show the work I could do I began getting orders to create custom merch or to place business logos on items. I remember feeling so accomplished when I got my 1st out of state order to ship. My work was actually being seen and wanted. Today, BSmoove’s Creations knows there’s no limit into what can be created and what can make a statement.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The road has been filled with bumps, real bruises, and some curves. Starting something new is always a challenge as much as it is exciting. Being a Poet/singer 1st I was worried that my fans would forget about that part of me while creating my print shop. I was finding it hard to mesh the two, as I wanted folks to know that Lady B and BSmoove’s Creations was one in the same. I didn’t want people to forget that music was my 1st love, so I created a shirt that expressed that. It says “Music is my love language”. I then wore it on stage and sold it next to my albums on my merch table. This worked out so much better, as people really got a visual and something they could hold on to.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Lady B Smoove is a Spokenword Poet, Singer, Songwriter, and Author. I smoothly mix poetry and song bringing you into my poetic world. Most all my poems are put to music and have a hook that I sing. My poetry is not like any other as it is Hip-hop, R&B, and Gospel infused, plus I do have a great singing voice. Most of my fans tell me that my voice(speaking and singing) is what they love about my art. My work always speaks to the love of God in my life, love, and the loving of others. Being the owner and creator for BSmoove’s Creations I’m able to express words on apparel and every day items that are used. Not everyone can find a way to collective bring all their art forms together and be successful.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
Mostly I’ve learned to give the people what they ask for and make it my own. Everyone wants their item to be customized to them, but realized they also want a piece of Lady B Smoove in there merchandise. I would try to design exactly what they asked for, but the customer wanted to be sure I put a lil Lady B on it. I then knew I was better than I thought at designing. So I keep going, doing my best not to second guess my work. I strive to be and show confidence in all my work and in life.
Pricing:
- Custom Shirts start at $15
- Hoodies start at $35
- Hats $12
- Live, Live…Dream Album $10
- Live, Love, Dream…Too(book) $15
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ladybsmoove.wixsite.com/ladybsmoove
- Instagram: @bsmoovescreations, @ladybsmoove
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bsmoovescreations
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/smoovegrooves
