Check Out Markia Brown’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Markia Brown.

Hi Markia, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My name is Markia Brown & I’m a graduate from thee unsinkable Albany State University. During my undergraduate experience is when I realized that fashion was my passion. In June 2017, I created a fashion business named Kiation LLC. The idea was constructed in my ninth-grade sewing class when I first learned about sewing machines, serger machines, embroidery, and started to make clothes. Now, I am currently pursuing a Master’s of Fine Arts for Luxury and Fashion management to continue my dreams.

It was in high school when I leaned into clothing to express who I was. I realized in this sewing class that although we were all instructed to complete the same project, the creativity for the finished product was limitless. We had the opportunity to pick the fabric and add any embellishments of our choice. No one shirt, pillow, dress, or anything else we made looked similar to our classmates. It helped me to expand my view and realize how diverse the fashion market can be.

People have different needs and want that they would like to fulfill with clothing. Clothing gives each individual a style that no one else can have. Since then, I have always been interested in blazing my trail, trying new things, and my goal is to help others create their personalized style.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My decision to become an entrepreneur became challenging when I realized I had to figure everything out with no assistance. In 2017, when I got the courage to apply for my LLC license, I became overwhelmed because I did not know where to start or what to focus on first.

I searched for a business mentor that could provide guidance but could not find anyone. With no successful business owners in my family and friend groups, I learned from trial and error. I am learning to take calculated risks so that I can make a profit. My business is currently self-funded from finances that I have saved to go towards my brand.

I use the money to be able to purchase supplies and various products for my business. However, pursuing a master’s degree in Luxury and Fashion Management plus applying for grants, I am continuously growing my business.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
For the 2020 relaunch of Kiation, my specialty is designing and creating dresses. My services include ready-to-wear pieces, custom dresses (gowns, cocktail, party dresses, etcetera), styling, and photoshoot direction.

I specialize in making dramatic dresses for occasions like birthdays, proms, and weddings. As a designer, I am proud, to be honest in consultations for clients to receive the best outcome. I want them to learn which colors, patterns, and styles would work the best for them as individuals rather than what’s popular.

That attribute because it helps my clients know that I care about them. I also want to impact the community by starting a mentoring program with high school students. To assist with applying for college, scholarships, give support and advice.

What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
Within the three years in business, I have learned to be resilient in bettering myself, my talent, and trusting God’s plan. I did not have any famous black fashion designers to look up to for inspiration. I am learning more as to why representation truly matters. Luxury brands that everyone desired were from foreign people and countries.

I began to feel insecure about my brand and unworthy to be in the fashion industry. I was not confident in my work to showcase on social media because I was anxious. I was afraid that my price range would not reflect my capabilities. However, I am thankful to be surrounded by supportive people that believed in my vision. After my postgraduate breakdown, I could decipher why I was uncomfortable with my imperfections. Now it is the purpose that empowers me to continue growing as an individual and not fit in with trends.

I intend to be vulnerable about my lack of confidence to help other women. I want to help them know that you do not have to alter your body to be beautiful but how to enhance who you are already.

Pricing:

• All Custom Garments start at $150+
• Custom Gowns start at $300+
• Ready to Wear items start at $75+

Contact Info:

• Email: sales@kiationllc.com
• Website: https://kiationllc.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kiationllc_/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kiation
• Other: https://www.behance.net/markiabrown

Image Credits
Christin Clever, Alistar Edwards, and Justin Wright