Today we’d like to introduce you to Antonio Holley.
Antonio, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin? How you started?
Well first and foremost, I would like to thank you for the opportunity. As I am grateful and completely humbled to tell my story for you all at Orlando Voyager Magazine. The idea of Established Hookah started at a game night I had at my home amongst a group of friends and associates. We were all laughing having the greatest time and then I became very serious immediately after. As many creatives are in my opinion, we can zone out and change our focus in the blink of an eye. No matter where we are at the present time. So, I got very quiet while everyone was still having the time of their lives and I shouted, “I’m going to start a hookah business right now.” As mentioned, some people were my friends and others were people I’ve just met.
Everyone looked at me and said, “Huh, you for real. Like right now?” In full authenticity, I replied, “You damn right. I don’t play games.” At that time those who actually knew me personally knew that this was happening immediately the same night. I proceeded to do calculations in front of everyone (25 mins) and I purchased everything I needed at once. IT WAS GO TIME!
The very next day, I researched getting all of my required licenses for this field in the State of Florida, and was done within 4 hours. Established Hookah is mobile for the entire State of Florida as well, just to add. The great thing about my brand is that I’ve started other small businesses before, which are still active because I am not a quitter. Once someone sees just the word “Established” of any of the logos I have for various things I do. They already know that this is official because of my quality and quality customer service. By the way, all of my logos were done by my brother, graphic designer, illustrator, and serial entrepreneur Joseph Barber. We are always together creating ideas. Professionalism while being courteous to all is key.
But, here is the kicker for Established Hookah. A good friend of mine, Ronnie Hartfield (orlandosvibedealer) as well as the collective (6) of Culture Curators “This Ain’t That” had an event on Feb. 20th, 2021 at Downtown Orlando Wallstreet. The event was called “Black Wallstreet.” Wanting to be a part of this, I reached out and that was the first time Established Hookah was actually seen in person to the masses. A week or so prior to that I had friends come over to test my hookahs out, inform me of what flavors they like, and what the ladies love. The reason being is because I do not smoke at all and never have in my lifetime.
Ever since then, I’ve been welcomed to all events, private or public. Honestly, no one has the type of hookahs I have. I’ve built this brand a certain way and it has done wonders for me. I meet different people from all walks of life from different cities, states, and countries because of where I am located in Orlando. I also have regulars and I’m immensely appreciative of them. But, nothing could have been as successful without the two young ladies helping me while out helping the people. Those two young ladies are Siarra Williams and Mia Roberts. There is still much progress to be made but, there is a plan in place to do so.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
To be completely transparent, it has been very consistent and smooth because of how I have prepared myself. Before I do anything I’m taking concrete action on, I will literally walk in circles alone and I do not want anyone around me. While doing that, I’m calculating, breaking down, and manifesting my vision. All I need is two days and some ginger ale. It sounds hilarious I know but, it works for me.
What I will say is that I have reached out to certain people (Promotors) to be of some assistance to their events or promotions because I want to bring an additional dynamic to them on different days/nights. A couple have replied professionally and some totally ignored me but that comes with it. However, just know I will never forget that. For me, I’m built on loyalty, trust, and respect while being unified as a whole. Established Hookah and all the other things I do are not in competition with anyone. Believe me, I have a plan for that as well.
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? What are you most proud of and what sets you apart from others?
This is a great question and the people who know me are going to cry laughing once they read this. All I do is create ideas and bring them to life the best way I can. The man that I am does not like attention because I used to live a certain way. Never liked it but, if it comes I know what moves to make at every second. I specialize in being honest, loyal, and trustworthy on all levels. Spiritually, Mentally, and Physically. Turning all negatives into positives and never folding under pressure. You will never hear anyone say I was not straight up real with them 100%. Antonio D. Holley is not a yes man, I am a man of order and understanding. Also, everyone needs to hear this directly. ALL MATTERS ARE TO BE HANDLED PRIVATELY, NEVER PUBLICLY. To each their own, but don’t say I haven’t told you.
Proud? I am not proud of anything because I still have to finish. I am not done with my vision nor am I satisfied. What I will say is that creating generational wealth for family and close friends will make me crack a smile. As for what sets me apart from others, you would have to get to know me on a deeply personal level. That is extremely hard to do because of specific reasons, but I am truly 1 of 1. I don’t think I’m better than anyone period. I’m the laid-back and chill guy, just vibing to the beat of my drum.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Everyone needs to understand that you are not to ever give up. Things can be hard and seem very much impossible sometimes. I have been in horrific intense situations most of my life and still ’til this day sometimes. But if there is a will, then there is a way also. I tell myself every single day that I will go broke for something I have faith and believe in. Like, I will go broke and I do not want to be broke. But at least I’ll know I gave it every ounce of my soul to bring light to my world.
So, just continue to fight a great fight and always find ways to inspire yourself. Even if you have to make something up for inspiration. That can lead to the success of all of your goals. Winners win and even if you’ve lost before you’ve won, guess what. YOU ARE STILL A WINNER. Keep going and win forever!
Contact Info:
- Email: establishedhookah@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/establishedhookah
Image Credits
Established Hookah
