Today we’d like to introduce you to Princeton George.
Hi Princeton, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
What is the Lions and the Bears?
It started as an outlet for me when the pandemic hit in 2020 to continue my missionary efforts in Las Vegas. Being a Christian Missionary for several years, and having gone to school for Textile Design and Business at the Fashion Institute, I wanted to combine both passions. I wanted to create a brand that related to everyone but that was inspired by my deeply rooted desire to change the world. The name originates from the very familiar story of David and Goliath with its rich meaning tied to the story prior. Before David was ready to take on his giant, he spent his upbringing as a “Shepherd Boy” combating the lion and bear. In preparation, this would equip him for this one moment in life to slay his Goliath. In short, this concept has produced six important mottos for the brand’s heartbeat: Purpose, training, confidence, overcoming, victories, and courage. I believe that these things are essential in life, as we face daily challenges or giants.
With my story being uniquely connected to the brand it has grown and evolved as I have. The original concept was to give half of our profits to missionary work and charity. I have now created a sister brand “Golden Lions” to distinguish missionary efforts from charity efforts (Each will still be giving profits back to each cause.) I am also in the process of creating LAB coffee and documenting my journey through the LAB podcast. As a whole, the brand has become more than a clothing line and has morphed into a true lifestyle brand with much potential. My goal is to continue my missionary efforts, while also having an impact on any local community I reside in. Since its origin in Las Vegas LAB has helped many in cities like Dubai, San Francisco, Eugene, and now my hometown San Diego. Although it is still just the beginning, I want this message to resonate with all, and potentially make this world a better place.
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?
It has been anything but smooth, but that’s how we like it! Having moved five times, in the past four years due to my missionary efforts LAB has constantly been on the move. Although it can be great from an inspiration standpoint, it can create a lack of stability with execution. The biggest challenge “Goliath” has been creating consistent quality drops before I move to a new city. With each drop being unique and costly we have only been able to drop successfully when we are situated long enough. Unfortunately, that rarely happens the way we would like! As a solution, I have committed to the slow-build method, experimenting along the way and gathering necessary feedback. The ultimate goal is to settle in one city long enough to give the brand true stability in needs and desires.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a Christian Missionary with a background in Fashion and Business. I have served in several cities from Miami, Anaheim, San Diego, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, San Francisco, Dubai, and Eugene Oregon. I have always used my creative background to help as many people as possible and LAB is the ultimate example. A staple of the brand is unique tie dye and vibrant colors that allow the message to stand out. What sets us apart, is also what makes me the most proud of the brand. It is our goal to give a good portion of our profits to charity or missions allowing your purchase to impact lives. With LAB we want every dollar to mean something impacting the world for the better.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Start small, and set a budget according to an obtainable goal. I started during the pandemic but moved before being able to complete my first launch. I would recommend small meaningful launches, giving you valuable information for the next. Money is always an issue so keeping costs low, while maintaining quality is key. This gives you time to build your brand identity which in turn leads to awareness. This process may take some time, as we can relate so never quit!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.lionsandbears.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelionsandbears?igsh=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: facebook.com/thelionsandbears
- Twitter: https://x.com/lionsandbearsco?s=21&t=KbF5cKWmZreHgdPPfgKCeQ
- Youtube: www.youtube.com/@thelionsandbearsco
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@thelionsandbears?_t=8mQfWsVKdAI&_r=1
