Inspiring Conversations with Erica Marks of Phraseology

Today we’d like to introduce you to Erica Marks.  

Hi Erica, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am a woman of many hats. I’m a mom first, a public librarian, a youth cheerleading director, a church youth director, and an owner of two small businesses: Phraseology and Book Marks Live, LLC. 

I’ve always been a hustler and dreamed of starting my own business. The 2020 Covid-19 shutdown allowed me to slow down, reflect, and execute Phraseology, your go-to source for exclusive, uplifting tees and lifestyle apparel. 

We aim to inspire our customers to be the best version of themselves and to be confident in their skin – and of course, their outfits. 

After working in public libraries for twenty years, serving on notable children’s book award committees, and creating inspiring youth programming serving thousands of Northeast Ohio students over the years, I decided to start a consulting company. Book Marks Live, LLC offers a variety of workshops for youth and professionals on topics such as leadership, public speaking, digital literacy, program development, and more. 

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Absolutely not! However, what’s the saying? When you do what you love, you never work a day in your life. 

One of the struggles included having the proper knowledge of what it takes to start a business. I appreciate the grind, nonetheless. It allows me to do this interview and have something to share with others. 

Knowing how to balance/manage social media is a beast. Being strategic and planning is key to successful social media posting and creating your aesthetics. 

Patience is a virtue! But things happen. I wanted to make as few mistakes as possible. Nonetheless, I know beautiful failures are one of the best forms of learning! 

As you know, we’re big fans of Phraseology. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Phraseology is your go-to source for exclusive, uplifting tees and lifestyle apparel. 

We aim to inspire our customers to be the best version of themselves and to be confident in their skin – and of course, their outfits. 

Our phrase-inspired apparel is always designed with love and positivity in mind. We create beautiful looks using hand-lettering, digital art design, text, graphics, or a mix of all four. 

Phraseology is a mode of expression. We pride ourselves on adding words to apparel and accessories to spread love and the love of Christ through fashion! 

Our goal is to share thought-provoking phrases with the world. 

The world needs a lot of love right now. Wouldn’t you agree? 

Shopping is available online and via scheduled pop-up shop events. 

Thank you to our sister-Company and partner, Bags Society (Latoy Fowler, Owner), for connecting us with Voyage Magazine! 

We create one of the best on-site shopping experiences, bringing nothing but quality apparel, handbags, accessories, and more. 

What does success mean to you?
I define success as gaining natural customers, hearing their feedback after purchase, or excitement while reading the messages on our apparel. 

I recognize my small business would not exist without the support and patronage from others. 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.phraseology.shop
• Instagram: shopphraseology
• Facebook: facebook.com/shopphraseology
• Twitter: bookmarkslive

Image Credits
Catherine Young