Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Martin.
Hi Ashley, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Growing up in Cincinnati, Ohio, I didn’t have an immediate interest in fashion, I mostly threw on what was comfortable and walked out the door, but one thing I did make sure of was that I had a purse in my hand. Every year on Christmas my aunt would purchase me and my sister the most fashionable handbags in which we loved and looked forward to! I would be so excited to wear them to school because to me it was my statement piece. Going to a PWI ( predominantly white institution) this excitement grew slim because I was often questioned on whether or not my handbags were “real” or not. This of course bothered me because why is it so questionable for someone like to me have a real handbag? It wasn’t until I graduated from high school and attended the Illustrious Morgan State University in Baltimore Maryland where my outlook changed. I vividly remember my first few weeks on campus I was in awe of how confidently individuals like me wore not only their handbags but their clothes as well. I wasn’t getting questioned I was being complimented and this changed the game for me.
My interest in fashion grew because I realized this was so much more to us. We chose to wake up everyday to not only get our education but to make a fashion statement while doing so, unapologetically. I began researching fashion more, the root of fashion and the culture behind it because I knew I wanted to contribute, I knew I wanted to create statement pieces for everyone.
Shortly after graduating, I started an online clothing boutique, it was nice but I wanted to create something of more meaning and that’s where BALDWIN ERA luxury handbags came from. Baldwin is actually my family last name so to me this represents everything I am and where I come from. The Baldwins are authentic, luxurious, smart, and well-rounded entrepreneurs. Along with the meaning of the name came the concept and meaning of our slogan ” a new era”. This slogan means to accept fashion as being more inclusive, a new era of fashion where black owned luxury brands are normalized. My goal for my brand is to become the largest black owned luxury brand.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Of course, like many businesses and business owners, the road is never really smooth, especially not in the beginning. You have out of pocket start-up costs, right and wrong marketing strategies, troubles identifying your target audience, and just trying not to have your head explode wearing all the hats. It’s definitely a challenge and can be overwhelming but my faith in my business and my faith in God is way stronger than any obstacle sent my way.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Baldwin Era is a luxurious handbag brand that created the most luxurious limited edition handbags while creating a brand of purpose. Baldwin Era specializes in creating handbags that become that statement piece for each and every individual. We take pride in being a luxury black owned brand and aim to become the biggest black owned luxury brand. We have so many new bags being released we are very excited to show the world this new era of luxury, an inclusive era of fashion.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
My advice for those just starting out would be to one be patient with yourself and two do your research. Everyone has a different journey, don’t look at the person next to you and think you’re moving too fast or too slow. Stay down, stay patient and do the work. Research is important because the more you know about the foundation the stronger you can build yours, and when your foundation is strong, it’s very hard for you to get knocked down.
Pricing:
- $89.00
- $159.00
Contact Info:
- Email: baldwinbllc@gmail.com
- Website: www.baldwinera.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/baldwinera_
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/baldwinera
