Lou Gannon
"I learned from my
grandfather that I could be my own boss, control what I do, achieve my dreams and be in charge.” so then I’m thinking ‘Aright I’m going to actually do this for real’ so I ordered some more shirts and sweaters.” The Black Business Initiative’s ‘Business is Jammin’ Program loaned Simmonds $5,000 which allowed him to create the company’s website and online store. As the sole operator of Highlight Reel Clothing Simmonds says that working alone can be a challenge and that he
hopes to bring other people on board in the future. In the two years that the business has been operating, the 23-year-old has learned some valuable lessons – the first one being the importance of quality. Simmonds was not impressed with the first shirts he produced. "When you washed them the color faded away. I couldn't have that. I have to get material that lasts for people." The young entrepreneur also learned about research. “Research everything you do before you make an order," says Simmonds. "When I first started I would just find the first person and order from that supplier but now I research and find the best quality and people are satisfied it doesn’t rip or fade quickly or shrink.” Simmonds says Daymond John, Kanye West and his father also influenced his business. “My father was a big influence on me because he is a hard worker; Kanye because of his fashion
sense and Damon John because he is the founder of the FUBU brand.” Simmonds wants other young people to know they can start a business too. “If you have a dream, go for it. Go hard for what you want to be in life and nothing will stop you.” Simmonds attributes his business skills to growing up in a family business environment. “These days people have access to the internet where they can get a lot of information related to running a business. I am also very involved in the community. I connect to people and I learn from them as well.”
“If you have a dream,
go for it. Go hard for what you want to be in life and nothing will stop you.” Highlight Reel Clothing has sold in Truro, Halifax, Toronto and the United States. The appeal, says Simmonds, is in the colors and the quality. “I tried to go real crazy with the quality I got a real good supplier.” He encourages customers to keep visiting the current website and following him on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram at ‘highlightxreel’ for all three. A new website is on its way as well as new t-shirts and hoodies. Highlightxreel Clothing Chance Simmonds, Owner 245 West Prince Street., Truro, NS 902-899-3636 highlightreel.official@gmail.com highlightxreel.bigcartel.com 32 ...