Today we’d like to introduce you to Mark Pryor Jr
Hi Mark, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Hello I am Mark Pryor Jr. Born and raised in Cleveland, OH (Let Em Know!) I’m currently 24 years old. My story starts off like most big dreamers. I struggled with staying consistent throughout my entire life. I had so many aspirations and dreams that I didn’t know how to stick with one. I always knew that whatever I ended up doing would produce a new problem for me to solve everyday. Which led me to being a business owner with Sammi Young. Which funny story her and I met in a club and ended up starting our clothing brand Divine Karma Kollection. It started as any other business did. There were obstacles and roadblocks but we prevailed. Now we’ve done popups at FWD, Goodnight Johnboy, Lakewood Truck Park, and the Cleveland Market in Tyler Village. Most people who we have told that story to are in disbelief. One thing I have learned is that in this life you have to take a chance. You never know what will happen when you chase your dreams. What I can promise you is you will grow and learn. You will meet amazing likeminded people. However, to us it makes perfect sense. She is a big a reason I’ve come as far as I have. We both have such big ideas and so much creativity it’s uncanny. Now for the bread and butter these past 12 months have been the most I have ever changed in my life. I established a relationship with God, got baptized, changed my habits and my mindset. The peace and the joy that I’ve felt since then is irreplaceable. At the beginning of this year I had a near death experience. Ended up having an emergency tonsillectomy throat almost swelled shut. I went to the er three times! The first two times I was basically turned away and told that I was fine. The last time I had to be rushed in an ambulance. I was in the back of the ambulance barely able to breathe and I remember thinking “My story isn’t finished yet.” I ended up dropping about 40 pounds in 7 days. I spent 3 days in the icu and was out of work for three whole weeks. Yet I’m here to tell the tale. God is the only reason I’m even able to share my story all glory belongs to Him. Word of advice for any new business owner or anyone who wants to start a business. Don’t trust people based off of what they say. Trust them based off of what they do. This will save you so much time and frustration. Anyone can say anything, but not everyone is willing to do whatever it is they have just said. Thank you for reading a little bit about my life.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I would say the road has been anything but smooth. I have had friends switch up on me. I have had a lack of support from some friends and family. I have had spiritual warfare (those of us who know, know) anything you can imagine going wrong went wrong. So how did I overcome it? God, prayer, my business partner and having some faith. Often times when it seems like something is impossible to defeat God is about to COOK! Just like anyone else I struggle with doubting myself. As well as being too pessimistic about situations. God gifted me with a business partner that lifts me up and refuses to let me wallow in my own self pity. There is always a ram in a bush waiting to help you. Rely not on your own understanding and I’m telling you it will work out.
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?
I am a clothing brand owner. I specialize in the technology side of things. Making sure our website is running smoothly and keeping us up to date on any new tech for our business. Especially with SEO and anything in the backend. I’m known for my unique perspective on things. My entire life I have been unable to think like others. I have been told I think too big. I have been told my dreams are impossible. I would truly say I am known for my ideas and creativity. I’m most proud of Divine Karma Kollection’s success. Sammi and I, started the business 12/22/2023 and we have had so much love and support. Honestly, I think how real I keep it and how deep I can be is what sets me apart. That is why I work so well with my business partner. We all crave a true genuine connection in any context. Whether it’s with family, friends, significant others, even strangers. I am that person that you can walk up to and have a real conversation with. Which seems to be a rarity nowadays.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
In 5-10 years? Honestly I see fashion going more tech centric. I think people will move away from all the super flashy brands. I think skinny jeans will be completely out by then (sorry Atlanta) I believe we will see a lot more chunky/clunky type shoes. I firmly believe there will be a new style of boot that becomes the new rave. Overall I think we’ll see more color on people as well. Maybe even some clothing that can change colors. I personally have some ideas for one of ones. So be ready for some never seen before clothing ideas which will only be found at Divine Karma Kollection.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://divinekarmakollection.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preachingpryor?igsh=MXEwMDk1MzNvN3A4ag%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Other: https://linktr.ee/divinekarmakollection
