Co-signed: UL Global

Every Sunday we'll be highlighting up and coming brands/creatives. Introducing Co-signed by The Pep Talk.

This week we’re highlighting UL Global created by Toni Cooper. When Toni was younger her beloved brother was one of her biggest influences when it came to fashion choices. Originally from Miami, FL; Toni has drawn her inspiration from her diverse surroundings and has created a timeless and ever-evolving brand.

"Since high school, I always wanted a creative outlet. I never put action into it until I went to college and saw people doing inspirational things with barely anything to start with." -Toni Cooper

UL Global can be described as a brand cultivating unity, love, and trust. With the brand message and merch, UL Global hopes to inspire people who come from nothing, but want it all; and to achieve their goals one step at a time.

Here at The Pep Talk, we like to ask the people we’re featuring where they see their business going, “skies the limit” is what we like to say when asking them their plans for the future. Here’s what Toni had to say about her plans for UL Global-

“I see my brand being one of the biggest brands on the globe. I am not limiting myself to one or two genres like men’s and women’s clothing. If I want to drop a furniture collection, I will. I plan on collaborating with some of the biggest streetwear companies out today. There is no limit on what my brand and I can accomplish. I'm going to take this time to allow the universe to set that plan in motion on my behalf.” -Toni Cooper

Toni is an inspiration to us because of her commitment to creating an ever-evolving brand that pushes the limits and inspires others to do the same. When originally interviewing Toni, we were both pleasantly surprised and appreciative of her candid responses and authenticity. It's refreshing to have a conversation with someone who is 100% authentic and true to themselves. Her energy and attitude are truly radiating and this has transcended into her brand which continues to grow and flourish.

Be sure to check out @ul.global and shopulglobal.com for Toni's latest drop "The World Is Yours" tee shirt dress.

XOXO,

The Pep Talk

Co-signed: E Pluribus Unum

Every Sunday we’ll be highlighting up and coming brands/creatives. Introducing Co-signed by The Pep Talk.

This week we’re highlighting E Pluribus Unum created by Shaquille Fredricks: Fashion designer and visionary putting his twist on classic American fashion; drawing inspiration from iconic brands like Polo Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, and Harley-Davidson.

E Pluribus Unum can be described as historic, timeless, and modern. Shaquille Fredricks was born and raised in Queens, New York with a passion to create. When he was younger his mom directed that passion towards engineering; which to him is the highest form of creating. In high school, he started to grow a strong interest in history, specifically American history. On the train, and in the city is where he fell in love with fashion. If you take all of those experiences and throw them together, you get E Pluribus Unum. The brand ultimately came into fruition during his undergraduate career at Howard University.

"Back in high school, I felt like I never saw a brand that made people reflect or think about America in more ways than one. Polo and Hilfiger made me think about White America even though they had the black community in NY on lock. Harley Davidson only spoke about the biker community and any other brands just didn’t say the things I felt like they should’ve been saying. At the time I never saw a brand that said “here's what America is, take it or leave it” and I felt like I could speak to that coming from the mixing pot that is NY." -Shaquille Fredricks

E Pluribus Unum is the culmination of a historic concept and ideology, timeless imagery, and modern fits and cuts.

Here at The Pep Talk, we like to ask the people we’re featuring where they see their business going, “skies the limit” is what we like to say when asking them their plans for the future. Here’s what Shaq had to say about his plans for E Pluribus Unum-

"Well, I see EPU being on Ssense, Farfetch, doing collaborations with artists, and other brands. I see EPU having trunk shows and temporary physical and interactive virtual art sites. I see collaborations with car companies, skating brands, and tech companies. And I have ideas for all of them already."

Shaq is an inspiration to us because of his limitless imagination and creativity in making his brand a reality. His attention to detail is unmatched and he's been able to develop a brand while also working full-time as an engineer. This is a reminder to always give your passions the attention they deserve and to let your imagination run wild. EPU continues to evolve as a brand like no other, and Shaq has used his personal love for fashion to develop new styles and trends adored by his supporters.

Be sure to check out @epu1776 and https://epu1776.us for Shaq’s latest drop "Fountain Pen Logo Hoodie in Merlot"

XOXO,

The Pep Talk

Co-signed: HairbyPD

Every Sunday we’ll be highlighting up and coming brands/creatives. Introducing Co-signed by The Pep Talk.

This week in honor of Women’s History Month we’re highlighting HairbyPD founded by Princess Doku- Making her own history with her fan-favorite U-part wigs.

HairbyPD can be described as an artisan, authentic and transparent brand. Originally from Fredrick, Maryland Princess Doku is a 25-year-old graduate of Howard University and is currently in a master's program at Drexel University. When speaking with Princess she noted that she’s been doing hair for as long as she can remember. Haircare and styling is something that has always been a passion of hers.

“Before 2020, I used to hand-sew wigs for myself and a couple of friends and realized they were good enough to monetize off of. Once I got the hang of how to make them on a sewing machine, I figured why not take my talents out to South Beach (LOL)? No, but seriously, I got out of my comfort zone and started using my talents to my advantage. Now I sell to people all over and they love HairByPD.” -Princess Doku

Here at The Pep Talk, we like to ask the people we’re featuring where they see their business going, “skies the limit” is what we like to say when asking them their plans for the future. Here’s what Princess had to say about her plans for HairbyPD-

“Hopefully to the point where I can open up a storefront somewhere in the DMV and hire several indie wig makers to be a part of my team. Moving away from the everyday hustle into a more CEO role if I must say.”

Princess is an inspiration to us because of her commitment to her brand and willingness to prioritize her education while also monetizing her passion, and making a lucrative side hustle out of it. Let Princess be an inspiration to anyone reading this. Never limit yourself because you feel like you may not have the time. Princess is a great example of "anything is possible" by being a full-time master's student, working full time at a doctor's office, and also running a business. You are capable of achieving anything you put your mind, body, and soul to. Be sure to check out Princess’s business page @hairbypd and https://www.hairbypd.shop/ for all your hair extension needs.

XOXO,

The Pep Talk