AllisonJanel: How would you describe your SwagHer? What makes Jalona, Jalona?
Jalona: My SwagHer exudes innovation, drive, and determination…all exhibited while trying to find my latest notepad in my mom leggings with my hair in a messy bun. I’m an entrepreneur but also a wife and a mother of two small children who serve as my motivation and my joy. J
AllisonJanel: Please tell our readers a little bit more about Doll Face and Jalona Marie Bridal.
Jalona: Dollface was my very first foray into fashion. I wanted a new challenge, and I began learning how to sew. Bringing designs to life quickly became my passion, and I started making workwear for women. That endeavor grew into a full-scale custom clothing line. I ushered in with my first venture into overseas sourcing. As those customers began to get engaged, they asked if I could design their wedding gowns. Thus, Jalona Marie Bridal was born. I enjoyed designing wedding dresses so much that it became the focal point of my fashion efforts.
AllisonJanel: Define fashion in your own words.
Jalona: Expression, Emotion, and Individuality – Fashion is just so dope!
AllisonJanel: What was the process of transitioning from China Connect to www.healthgearnow.com
COVID-19 wielded a direct blow to my business strategy. My team and I had two tours to China already planned and fully booked for 2020. In January, I began to realize how this global pandemic impacted everyone. Notably, each individual’s view of China during the epidemic. Also, their willingness to travel for the tour. I gave myself some time and grace to fully absorb the overall impact from the bottom line. At the height of the pandemic, it was painful, frightening, and imposed a significant loss of income for my business. After a couple of weeks of sitting and dealing with my reality, I knew I had to pivot my business model. Yet, I needed to handle the issue strategically. I performed a lot of research and, I turned to my #1 advisor (my gut) to decide if I should take a detour. I decided to leap into providing PPE (Personal Protective Equipment). The stars aligned, and here we are now!
AllisonJanel: What is your favorite part of being a designer?
Jalona: Great question. My favorite part is getting to spend time creating. When I create, my spirit soars, and I tap into a well of happiness. It really makes my heart sing and is all of my happy places wound into one activity.
AllisonJanel: What kind of challenges have you faced in your business?
Jalona: There have been many challenges across each of my businesses. From suppliers not delivering on time, shipping delays, receiving damaged products to making costly mistakes. The one thing I’ve learned is to ALWAYS prepare for trouble. This simply means allocating a small percentage of your operational expenses to address “waste,†“do-overs,†and those “oops†moments.Â
AllisonJanel: What advice would you give to someone wanting to become an independent business owner?
Jalona: It may sound cliché, but my advice is always to know your “Why.†You must understand why you are sacrificing and riding this entrepreneurial roller-coaster because some days will be hard and others downright impossible. Some days you’ll want to quit, and other days you’ll feel invincible. Remembering WHY you started will always help you through those awkward moments.
AllisonJanel: What technique(s) or business model(s) do you utilize to teach brides how to save money on their wedding gown without compromising quality and creativity.
Jalona: Over the years, I have developed a system for working with overseas vendors to capture factory-direct pricing. One of my most exciting projects is The Bridal Direct Club, which uses that system to connect brides to overseas wedding dress factories. It’s smart to be on a budget, but what we want to do is provide access — access to gorgeous, couture-style gowns at factory pricing without compromising quality. Our Bridal Direct Club does this in three steps and offers an affordable way to have your dream dress without breaking the bank. Our Bridal Gown Vendor List will be available on www.TheChinaConnect.com soon.Â
AllisonJanel: The designs you created are phenomenal, yet what was your inspiration while creating your designs for your clientele?
Jalona: My inspiration is the way my brides want to look and the emotions my brides want to feel on their wedding day. I have a talent for taking ideas and emotions and using fabric, appliqués, jewels, beads, etc. to translate them into a design that sparks a euphoric feeling. It’s hard to explain, but this is how the magic happens. When I see my brides’ eyes well up with tears, or they scream with glee when they see their gown, I know I’ve hit my mark.
AllisonJanel: How do you stay up to date regarding fashion?Â
Jalona: That is one of the most enjoyable aspects of being a designer! You get to read magazines, peruse stores, shop online, attend fashion shows, and talk fashion over a cocktail. All in the name of work! It’s so satisfying to see new fashion styles and recognize someone else’s talent. Then later, that talent turns into a trend. It’s an awesome thing to watch unfold.
AllisonJanel: What plans do you have for your brand?
Jalona: Barbara Cochran (of Shark Tank) is my girl! I admire her a great deal, and much like her, I have built my enterprise by partnering with smart business leaders to expand and launch businesses into a variety of industries. This model both allows me to grow my reach as well as invest in other entrepreneurs.
AllisonJanel: So tell us more about what you’re currently working on during the pandemic?
Jalona:Â My team and I have been happily busy during the pandemic, primarily with Health Gear Now. We are working with local businesses, schools, police departments, and non-profits to supply PPE. It has been a wild and crazy, yet fulfilling ride. I also used this time to record episodes for my podcast, The China Chat, as well as participate in virtual forums and random Zoom calls!
AllisonJanel: Do you have any upcoming virtual events or projects that you care to share?
Jalona: I do! I will be hosting an Alibaba Product Sourcing Webinar in June. In this class, I will teach how to find the right vendors and suppliers using Alibaba.com. Alibaba can be overwhelming, but I’ve found that it is one of the best places to find great pricing and an array of products. Those who want to attend can register at www.thechinaconnect.com.
Connect with Jalona below:
Websites: Â
Instagram:
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/thechinaconnect
https://www.facebook.com/healthgearnow
About AllisonJanel: AllisonJanel is an Editorial Assistant Intern at SwagHer Magazine, Influencer, Blogger, Community Volunteer, and Legal Consultant. You can find her on Instagram @chatwitallyJ
