Today we’d like to introduce you to Raenelle Gooden.
Hi Raenelle, 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?
I began my journey during a season of unexpected transition. After losing my job in October 2024, I was forced to slow down, reassess, and trust God for direction during a difficult job market. What began as a practical way to supplement my household income, creating custom T-shirts on the side, quickly revealed itself as something much deeper.
Stepping into unfamiliar territory required faith. I committed myself to learning the craft, researching intentionally, asking questions, and growing through each challenge. With the encouragement of a close friend who believed in the vision, every order became both a lesson and a confidence builder. As the work grew, so did my clarity.
Over time, it became clear this was not a temporary solution or a simple side hustle. It was the beginning of a purpose-driven business rooted in creativity, resilience, and obedience. I believe God used that season of uncertainty to realign me, positioning me for growth and sustainability. That foundation continues to shape how I build, create, and lead today.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I began my journey during a season of unexpected transition. After losing my job in October 2024, I was forced to slow down, reassess, and trust God for direction in the midst of a challenging job market. What started as a practical way to supplement my household income through creating custom T-shirts quickly revealed itself as something far more meaningful.
Stepping into unfamiliar territory required faith. I committed myself to learning the craft through intentional research, asking questions, and growing through each challenge. With the encouragement of a close friend who believed in the vision, every order became both a learning experience and a confidence builder. As the work expanded, so did my clarity.
In time, it became evident that this was not a temporary solution or a simple side project. It was the beginning of a purpose-driven business rooted in creativity, resilience, and obedience. I believe God used that season of uncertainty to realign me and position me for growth and sustainability. That foundation continues to guide how I build, create, and lead today.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am the founder of ChosenLine Apparel, a faith-inspired apparel brand centered on purpose, identity, and bold self-expression. I create custom-designed T-shirts and apparel that go beyond clothing. Each piece is intentional and designed to encourage confidence, healing, and the reminder that we are chosen and called to stand out.
Before launching ChosenLine Apparel, I built a professional career in healthcare operations, where I developed discipline, attention to detail, and a deep commitment to excellence. Those skills now shape how I run my business, from design and production to customer care and branding, ensuring every piece is created with integrity and intention.
What I am most proud of is building this brand from the ground up during a season that required faith, obedience, and complete trust in God. ChosenLine Apparel is more than a business to me. It is a reflection of my healing journey and my walk with God. Every design carries meaning and is created with prayer, purpose, and lived experience.
What sets my work apart is the heart behind it. This brand is rooted in faith, resilience, and authenticity. I do not simply sell apparel. I create pieces that tell a story, spark conversation, and remind people that even in uncertain seasons, God can birth something powerful through obedience and perseverance.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
Yes, I was afraid at first. For me, risk has never been about being fearless. It has been about choosing faith over fear. Starting a business during a season of job loss and uncertainty felt risky because there were no guarantees, no safety net, and no clear blueprint. I questioned myself often and had to confront the possibility of failure directly.
One of the greatest risks I took was trusting what God placed in my heart rather than the voices of doubt around me. I invested my time, energy, and limited resources into something unfamiliar, knowing it could either stretch me or break me. Releasing the need for approval and stepping forward without knowing the outcome required bold obedience. I have learned that real risk does not always come from dramatic leaps. More often, it appears in consistent, quiet decisions to keep going even when fear is present. Taking the first order, showing up daily, and committing to excellence when results were uncertain were all faith-driven risks.
Today, I do not consider myself reckless. I consider myself courageous. I am willing to take faith-led risks that align with purpose and preparation. I have learned that growth exists on the other side of fear, and when risk is grounded in prayer, discipline, and trust in God, it becomes a catalyst for transformation rather than something to avoid.
Pricing:
- Custom T-shirts: Starting at $25
- Custom T-shirts: Starting at $25
- Faith-Inspired Graphic Apparel: Pricing varies based on design and garment type
- Custom Orders & Bulk Pricing: Available upon request
- Digital Design Files (PNG): Starting at $5–$15, depending on usage and license
Contact Info:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChosenLine/
- Other: https://chosenlinebydesign.etsy.com
