We had the good fortune of connecting with Sonji Jones and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sonji, we’d love for you to start things off by telling us something about your industry that we and others not in the industry might be unaware of?
Since waistbeads are an African traditions, I am often asked if it’s OK for them to be worn by other cultures. Is it cultural appropriation? Yes they can be worn by other cultures and no it is not cultural appropriation as long as the history is understood, acknowledged, and respected.

It is my belief that once you have researched the history, whether through asking questions or looking it up on your own, you then honor the history and enter a new realm of self love.

 

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is a true expression of my heart. And my favorite part of creating is when the expression aligns with my customers and they see its beauty. This is because they are actually seeing a reflection of themselves. I want people to know that every piece that I create is made with the love I want for everyone to have for themselves. Once we all love ourselves, we will be compassionate and give grace to others.

That’s a Good Vibration.

The main lesson that I’ve learned in this journey is simply: Keep Going

 

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
So my friends know I’m a homebody but occasionally I may go grab a good Southern vegan burger at CowBar in the Morgan Street Food Hall. Then, I would probably take them downtown to the Black Friday Market to shop. To fill up the week, we’d probably just hang out at some of parks in the area. I love being out in nature.

 

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There have been so many people that have helped me gain confidence and grow as an entrepreneur. First and foremost, my family, my husband, Tim, my sons Jacob and Julian, my mother in law, and my bonus daughter for their unconditionallove and support. Then, all of my former WCPSS coworkers that became my 1st customers…they believed in me and kept me busy😁 and encouraged me to keep going. My business grew even more once I began vending with various organizations, especially the Black Flea Market. So a huge thank you to Jasmine Bullock and Jae Flagler for curating an amazing experience for black businesses.
A large my confidence came once I met, Johnny Hackett Jr and was invited to be a part of The Factory, a coworking, comanufacturing space. I was able to meet people I wouldn’t normally be able to meet while learning new skills to help my business flourish.
There I also met my best friend as well, Ms. Bernadette of Therapeutic Bath Salts. Bernadette is the friend that every person, especially an entrepreneur, needs. She hears my whimsical visions and helps me refine them into new products. She is my safe space to talk about the highs and lows of business (and life). Bernadette keeps me going❤️

 

 

Website: goodvibrationsbeading.com

Instagram: @dopegoodvibes

Facebook: Good Vibrations Beading

Image Credits
📸 Ray Howard

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