Beth Adams, the founder of Brown Aspiration, wanted a stationery that was more inclusive and represented her culture with a positive image. Brown Aspiration is the premier stationery market, celebrating black culture with a positive image. In addition to providing environmentally friendly choices for conscious consumers, the series also includes pens, plans, notebooks and backpacks.

Beth Adams: This is my hobby. I like writing and diary. At work, although everyone has their own laptop, I usually have a laptop. I noticed that I had to walk the aisle of the store without buying a diary or notebook, but it lacked variety. I want something that suits the African American community and experience better for me. So, I started the stationery series. Since I made custom notebooks as gifts for friends, they fell in love with them and asked for more. I will hold a local fair near my home in Maryland, and it will soon be sold out. I can't believe this request. I want to build something that little girls aspire to be.

Your collection contains many positive images of black women. Why is this important to you?

Beth Adams: I have always believed that seeing an image represents the place you want to go or your vision of yourself. Many of my books are positive images of black women, because I think we don’t always portray them in a positive way, especially in the media. The response was amazing. In our first year, our website almost crashed on Black Friday. It becomes more than just sales, but just a message of the positive image of the black and brown communities.

Which products would you recommend for this holiday?

Beth Adams: I am a planner by nature, so I always recommend planners, pens or diaries. The cool thing about our planner is that you can start at any time. You don't have to start using them in January.

For small business owners, this has been a difficult year. How do you continue to grow in the pandemic?

Beth Adams: Part of the reason is to learn different things and experience some growing pains. I must look for new opportunities or create opportunities for my business. I have to show myself by participating in regular programs and so on. I also had to invest in public relations and marketing. It is also important to have a mentor to help guide me through these things. The biggest challenge is to obtain capital. Despite having excellent credit and excellent products, it is difficult for people to invest in a start-up company without a physical store. I put a considerable amount of personal assets into my business, and started to research and receive grants. This is a challenge, but I am slowly passing it and proving it is successful.

Brown Aspirations products are stylish and colorful, and are a great addition to your home office, back-to-school needs, or gifts for stationery lovers this holiday season.

For a complete understanding of the Brown Aspiration series, please visit their website BrownAspiration.com.

Danielle Sanders is a journalist and writer based in Chicago. Find her on social media @DanieSanders20 and @DanieSandersOfficial.

Danielle Sanders is a journalist and content creator. She is currently the interim editor of the Chicago guard. Member NABJ, SPJ.

Tags: BBC Chicago, Beth Adams, Brown Wish, Dsanders, Holiday Gifts, Small Business Store

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