Today we’d like to introduce you to Anthony Phipps.
Anthony, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I am a Flawda Boi – born in South Florida, raised in Central Florida, and graduated college in North Florida so I got the majority of the state covered. Last year during the height of the pandemic, I had a little more spare time and was able to focus on projects that I’ve previously wanted to explore.
So I had this crazy idea to start a brand revolving around the term “FLAWDA” which is the pronunciation of Florida with a lil swag to it. You always hear news outlets talking about Florida and 99% of the time, it’s usually about three topics- South Beach, Disney World, or #FloridaMan. So being the Flawda Boi that I am, I wanted to show the world there’s more here than just South Beach and Disney and a lot of positivity flourishing throughout the state that you might not hear or read about.
After talking to a few close friends, I decided to launch our first release – “Bih- Definition” shirt. We received a lot of support and over a year later, it’s been the most popular item.
We recently celebrated our one year anniversary this past September. It’s been a roller coaster but a great year. The FLAWDA collection released a hoodie, two hats, and FLAWDA shirt within our first year. We’ve had Miami legend Rick Ross, world-renowned photographer Mark Clennon, and Orlando’s very own rapper Moe all support the brand (all have FLAWDA hoodies). Definitely was not expecting that within the first year. We’ve come a long way but still have a long way to go.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, the road hasn’t been smooth, however I embody true Flawda mentality and I’ve been able to face adversity head on. One of my favorite quotes is, “You don’t have to get it right, just get it going.” So the first struggle was dealing with myself- trying to do everything perfect, not knowing where to start, and worrying about what others thought. Ironically, I’ve learned more about how to run a business over the last year than my four-year business degree taught me. Being a small business owner, I’ve had to be my own accountant, marketer, manager, and financial advisor.
Another struggle has been capital. Initially, this is something every small business owner faces, especially in the early stages. However, we are very proud of the progress and appreciative of the growth we have experienced thus far.
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?
We want our readers to know FLAWDA is a local brand promoting pride to our state. Florida is made up of all different races, religions, and backgrounds, including a huge Caribbean and Latino community. The range of pride starts at the top of the state in Jacksonville yelling, “DUVAL!” to Dade County where they rep “305 til I die”. We highlight areas and neighborhoods that a lot of people don’t know about but have so much history. For example, earlier this year we highlighted the town of Eatonville which is the first black community to be incorporated in the United States. That’s amazing and many people didn’t even know that.
FLAWDA aims to expose the unique lingo locals have created in words such as “bih” and “jit” which has crossed over into mainstream media. (Please refer to our Instagram @flawdaofficial to brush up on Flawda lingo)
Florida is the home state of artists, athletes, and notable figures such as: Rick Ross, Plies, Trina, City Girls, Lamar Jackson, Chad “Ocho Cino” Johnson, and Vince Carter. “I’m So Hood” by DJ Khaled featuring Trick Daddy, T-Pain, Rick Ross, and Plies is my favorite and the ultimate Flawda song.
Currently, our online store consists of two shirts- Bih Definition and Flawda Tee, two hats- Flawda snapback and Flawda dad hat, and a Flawda hoodie available in Black and Grey. We have a couple of new releases that we hope to drop by the end of the year or early 2022.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
By connecting with us on social media! It goes a long way and we are very appreciate for each follow, like, and comment. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.
Also, purchase an item from our shop!
Free shipping on orders over $30 and each order comes with a complimentary Flawda sticker
Contact Info:
- Email: info@shopflawda.com
- Website: www.shopflawda.com
- Instagram: www.facebook.com/flawdaofficial
- Facebook: www.instagram.com/flawdaofficial
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/flawdaofficial
