We all know that Black women and men are DOPE, but when the founder of Black Girl Powerhouse, LLC (BGPH), Brenda Hampton, created the DOPE Collection, she never predicted the designs would send her company’s profits through the roof. Consumers love the collection, and many have shared photos of their purchases, along with the DOPE images, across social media platforms.
The images have sparked the attention of many other retail businesses that have been eager to obtain a licensing certificate and turn a profit too. Hampton’s decision to share BGPH’s creations with other businesses was an easy decision. She and her partners truly believe in helping other businesses thrive, especially those managed by Black women. “We are thrilled to work with other retailers, and as we continue to build our brand, we look forward to helping other businesses grow with us,” Hampton says.
Since May of this year, BGPH has already partnered with twenty-four retailers who also sell merchandise with the DOPE images. Hampton believes that going this route will help with long-term goals to franchise BGPH nationwide. She also admits that there have been some challenges. “We started this business seven months ago and our products and images are everywhere. There is a growing desire for African Americans to find merchandise that represents us and our company aims to deliver. The downside is some people see our images on our website or social media platforms and take them. Our trademark and copyrights are ignored and that’s unfortunate. It hurts our business, and I can totally relate to many of the big brand-name retailers like Chanel, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, etc., who experience the same thing and feel a need to take action.”
In addition to the DOPE Collection, BGPH’s other bestsellers are unique luggage covers, 3-D purses, blankets and artwork. Hampton credits her partners, Monique and Monica, who are also her daughters, for having such a creative niche. “It’s a blessing to operate BGPH with my children. Like me, they’re original thinkers and very artistic. We have the best job in the world, and as our profits continue to soar, the main goal is to keep people, mostly Black women, excited about our products.” A shoe collection is next on the agenda at BGPH. Hampton promises that it will blow women away.
Learn more about the Black Girl Powerhouse building project and visit the online store at www.bgphouse.com or follow the brand on Facebook at www.facebook.com/blackgirlpowerhouse