Today we’d like to introduce you to Lynsie and Loretta Ransaw.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
In 2014, my sister Loretta and I sat down and brainstormed on a new business venture. Within an hour, A Plus Print Shop was born.
The struggle was real in the beginning as we knew nothing about the equipment. There were many long nights ahead of us as we learned through trial and error. We received our first big order from the Truth youth football team with Deion Sanders. It was definitely a challenge, but we made it work!
That order alone propelled us into other youth leagues and school districts in the Dallas metropolitan area. One day, I was playing around with designs and slogans and made a shirt that said Melanin Mafia. I wore the shirt not knowing that it would soon turn into a hot item.
A great friend and mentor Rosalyn “Nanny” Lewis offered to sell the shirts in her store I Love My HBCU on the campus of Grambling State University. The sales were rolling in. I sat back and thought… this could be a thing! August 1, 2018, we launched Melanin Mafia Apparel.
This brand was created to represent our culture in an uplifting and positive way.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
The road has been everything but smooth. Financially, physically and emotionally we struggled, but we never gave up. We gained some great mentors along the way that always steered us back on the right track.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
A Plus Print Shop is a custom printing company that specializes in screen printing, embroidery, vinyl, and digital printing. We are known for fast turn around and rush orders. We make it happen by any means necessary.
Melanin Mafia is an apparel line. We are Designed For The Culture! From tees, sweaters, joggers, and leggings we have everything you need.
What were you like growing up?
My sister and I have always been close, but we are complete opposites. I (Lynsie) was a social butterfly. Always in sports, band and pretty much anything where I was in front of people. I enjoy crafting and creating things.
Loretta, on the other hand, is more laid back. Her paralegal background makes her a little more methodical with her decision making.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.MelaninMafia.com
- Phone: 405-309-SHOP
- Email: info@APlusPrintShop.com shop@MelaninMafia.com
- Instagram: @aplusprintshop @melaninmafia_
- Facebook: @Aplusprintshop @MelaninMafiaApparel
Image Credit:
Kish Photography
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