Meet Business Owner & Founder of Herron Hats: Unorthodox Tops, Markia Herron.
- Brianna Donson
- Apr 20, 2017
- 2 min read
Did you attend a 4-year university? If so what was your major?
I attended the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, where I received a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology. Afterwards, I continued my studies at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock where I received my Master of Education in Instructional Technology
What is the name of your business?
Herron Hats: Unorthodox Tops
When did you start your business?
About a year and a half ago, I began teaching myself the craft of hat making. For the last couple of months, however, I've been working on the finishing touches in order to release my first official line of hats.
What made you want to be an entrepreneur?
I never set out to be an entrepreneur. It more or less came to me while doing what I considered to be a necessity for myself. I was having trouble finding a quality hat that I loved, and that fit well. So I decided to create it myself. I loved it so much, I created more. Eventually, I had a whole collection in front of me, and people became interested.
Describe a typical work day.
A typical work day often times runs long into the night. I can stay at my work bench for hours pondering over what the best decision for my creations are. It usually involves a lot of sewing, steaming, sanding, pouncing, a bit of rubbing alcohol, and a burn or two. I want my hats to be aesthetically pleasing, tell a story, and be timeless works of art for those who experience them.
What are your hobbies?
As of now, hat making is my hobby. Outside of it, I’m an Instructional Designer for an educational institution. Also, since undergrad I’ve maintained a lucrative cellphone repair service.
Does your business allow you to be creative with no limits?
Absolutely. When I sit down with a hat body, I create what I'm feeling in that moment. When it comes to design, there is no wrong way.
Have you found fulfillment in what you do?
Fulfillment comes and goes. There are moments of pride and happiness after I've created a hat that I love, but there have been moments where I've had to start over from scratch because I wasn't satisfied with the end result. Does it make me happy to do what I love? Absolutely. As a designer though, I am always looking for new ways to be innovative.
Are you a 1 woman show or do you have employees/ business partners?
As of now, I am a one woman show when it comes to the handiwork. However, I've had people reach out who would like to help with marketing and branding, so I've expanded and will continue to as business grows.
What is a current project you are working on? Currently, I'm working to release my first line of Herron Hats. The official release and launch party, along with the website will be May 7, in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Comments