Today we’d like to introduce you to Adrion Butler.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Adrion. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I’ve always been interested in fashion. While in college, I teamed up with three of my closest friends and bought three sewing machines and a truckload of fabric. We were determined to be the next Fubu. We failed miserably, but the joy I found in the creating process was more valuable than any money we lost. So, I kept creating, in every way possible. I started making my own music, creating dances, graphics, artwork and the list goes on. I finished college with a marketing degree and went out into the “real world.” When the creative side of me wasn’t bringing income, I decided to try the corporate world. It never satisfied. My mind was constantly creating ad campaigns for companies, newly updated logos, redesigned sneakers and more. I could barely focus on my phone calls and spreadsheets. Unsurprisingly, I was let go from more than one job.
During my unemployment seasons, I was able to really explore my creative side. My music really started to gain traction, so I chased it. Little did I know, that this would open up doors for me to revisit my passion for fashion. I started a merchandise line to help bring in more income and build my fanbase. I could barely keep the shirts in stock. That is where the AB4 Brand was born. I started creating more pieces to accompany my music and it really grew from there. I now host pop up shops in the cities that I travel to for music and have an online store that allows me to cater to customers all over the globe. I have clients from all walks of life and geographic locations.
AB4 Brand was inspired by my family. I’m married to a singing, dancing, seamstress named Ambra. We have two beautiful creative children, August and Audri. All four of our initials are AB, hence the name AB4 Brand.
Has it been a smooth road?
Smooth, no. Rocky, not yet. I’ve had similar obstacles as most brands. Low funding, lack of connections, list of “no’s”, etc. I guess I have always seen that as apart of the journey. I understand that I won’t convince everyone that my style is “it”, but the one that believes in the brand makes it all worthwhile.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the AB4 Brand story. Tell us more about the business.
AB4 Brand offers trendy graphic tees and hoodies packed with encouragement. I am a believer so my faith is shown in every piece I create.
Proud moments:
– As a company, we teamed up with One1Way to send loads of shirts with them to Kenya to give to the children they were there to serve.
– Our clothing has been worn by several artists and public figures.
What sets us apart?
– We aren’t looking to be different, just authentic.
– Our core values are present in every piece and displayed in a way that anyone can enjoy.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
In the next five-ten years, we would like to expand in a few different areas. We want to continue to provide our own clothing and give upcoming brands a leg up by offering a bit of manufacturing as well. When I began AB4, it was difficult finding decent material and a good price. It was even more difficulty navigating all the rules and regulations of the industry. We want to provide a place where that can get that information. Imagine a shop where you can purchase material and get assistance with trademarking. That’s the goal!!!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.adrionbutler.com
- Phone: 2149061936
- Email: zoabbooking@gmail.com
- Instagram: @imadrion
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adrionb14/
- Twitter: @imadrion
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