Today we’d like to introduce you to Dere Hney.
Hi Dere, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
In the quiet corners of a small American town, a dream began to bloom within me—a vision that took root while watching MTV’s The Hills. Lauren Conrad’s journey through the fashion industry ignited a fire within, a desire so grand that it felt like a dream reserved for others. As a young black girl in America, my vision seemed audacious, so I took the conventional route: silence my ambitions hint at them cautiously, for fear of unsettling those who couldn’t grasp the depth of my dreams.
Yet, the tug of exploration persisted, and soon, I found myself clutching a passport, bags packed, ready to embark on a transformative six-month journey in Italy. Living abroad shattered preconceptions and proved that the more I sought was indeed real. Returning to the United States, inspired and hungry for more, I suppressed my ambitions. However, waiting began to alter my perspective once again.
Graduating as Salutatorian and securing seemingly fitting jobs brought little satisfaction; rejection letters were the only response. Enrolling in a doctoral program marked the end of waiting; I took a cue from Lauren Conrad and pursued my dreams in the sun-kissed embrace of California. From Central Florida to San Diego, I unpacked my aspirations in a new chapter, convincing my sister to join me in the unknown.
Yet, life took an unexpected turn—a pandemic, a layoff, and an unplanned entry into entrepreneurship. Bid farewell to the first business venture, embraced the highs and lows of Network Marketing, and birthed The Chosen Ones—an embodiment of my journey through rejection, my struggle with feeling different. In a month, four figures were conquered.
A year later, my journey expanded, giving life to Chosen Escapes, a testament to my newfound passion as a Travel Agent. In this season, my calling echoes—encouraging those who feel life’s weight upon them. I stand at a juncture, compelled to share the profound impact of God on my life—the One who saw an unseen girl and breathed courage into her dreams. The narrative has shifted, and I am now a vessel of encouragement, a testament to the power of stepping into the unseen and emerging as chosen.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Navigating the entrepreneurial journey feels akin to a committed relationship. Nights of self-doubt have brought tears, yet others have filled my heart with gratitude. The hurdles of entrepreneurship are myriad, understanding why some throw in the towel after a year. Struggles include the mental challenge of escaping self-doubt, financial hurdles raising capital during slow sales weeks, and a significant struggle in managing expectations with friends and family. With a grand vision, disappointment creeps in when their energy doesn’t align. It’s an ongoing battle, but each day brings growth and improvement.
We’ve been impressed with The Chosen Ones (TCO), but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
About The Chosen Ones (TCO):
In the realm of fashion, The Chosen Ones (TCO) isn’t just a brand; it’s a movement, a testament to resilience, faith, and divine love. Established in March 2022, TCO’s roots trace back to the transformative year of 2020, when inspiration blossomed from the unexpected soil of heartbreak.
Specialization and Differentiation:
TCO, or The Chosen Ones, specializes in more than just clothing; it’s an intricate fusion of luxury fashion and spiritual significance. What sets TCO apart is its origin story — a narrative born from the depths of heartache and guided by a divine revelation. The brand intricately weaves threads of luxury with reminders of God’s timeless words, emphasizing the concept of chosenness, with a particular focus on the ultimate Chosen One, Jesus.
Brand Pride:
From a brand perspective, our most significant accomplishment lies in fostering genuine connections and creating a community that goes beyond mere transactions. Building a platform where individuals can share their stories, find solace, and celebrate their unique journeys has been a remarkable accomplishment. The true success is measured not just in the stylish pieces we offer but in the transformative impact we’ve had on people’s lives, redefining the narrative of what it means to dress with purpose and meaning. This accomplishment reinforces our commitment to being more than just a brand – we are a catalyst for connection, transformation, and empowerment.
Message to Readers:
At TCO, we want readers to grasp the depth of our brand, extending beyond conventional fashion. While our styles suit any occasion, they’re uniquely inspired by the essence of redefined modesty, blending elegance with a fresh perspective. Imagine outfits perfect for airport waits, all-inclusive dinners, or girl’s getaways as TCO transcends the ordinary. Choosing TCO is embarking on a journey at the intersection of style and spirituality. Our offerings go beyond fashion, inviting you to embrace a fusion of redefined modesty and effortless style. Furthermore, we’re proud to announce our uni-sex styles, and this fall season marks the exciting launch of new merchandise drop and the release of our first men’s collection. Each piece carries a profound statement of divine love, celebrating faith and fashion with the resounding message: “You are loved. You are chosen. You are fearfully and wonderfully made.” Join us in reshaping the narrative of faith and fashion.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you, or support you?
Connecting, collaborating, and supporting TCO is an invitation to be part of a community that values vibrant expression and shared principles. To connect, join our community, and stay updated on our latest collections, stories, and events by following us on social media. If you’re interested in collaboration, we eagerly welcome opportunities in design, storytelling, and partnerships, fostering creativity and innovation. For those who resonate with our mission, supporting TCO means sharing your experiences, spreading the word, and contributing to the dynamic tapestry of our community. Additionally, if you’re seeking a more direct impact, explore our collections and make a purchase, knowing you’re contributing to TCO’s meaningful journey.
Furthermore, TCO is excited to extend collaboration to non-profit organizations. If you represent a cause aligned with our values, we’re eager to explore potential partnerships that amplify both our voices in meaningful ways. Together, we can continue celebrating faith and fashion as a powerful, harmonious expression of individuality and divine connection.
Contact Info:
- Website: shopthechosenones.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shoptco_/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082952061715
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@shoptco_?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
