Story & Lesson Highlights with Latonya Brabham of Charlotte

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Latonya Brabham. Check out our conversation below.

Latonya, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
Yes. I have been an official resident of Charlotte, North Carolina for the last five years now and in that short period of time I have built relationships with clients and customers. At a recent event I had customers, who have come year after year just to shop with me. It makes my heart glow knowing that I’ve made such authentic connections through offering curated vintage gems. It has always and will continue to be about the connections I make with people for me. #morethanclothes

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Sure thing, “Hey y’all, I’m Tonya and I’m the owner of Vintage Mod Mix” a vintage reselling business offering curated vintage and modern pieces to create unique fashionable looks (thus the name Vintage/Mod (Modern) Mix) What makes Vintage Mod Mix special is the fact we provide a safe space for our customers to shop, connect, and have an experience like no other. Some clients often stop by the booth just to hang out and we’re okay with that because nine times out of ten, they always leave feeling better than when they walked into the booth. As a business owner that is how I want my customers to feel. I have continued to participate in local pop-up markets, but more recently I’ve started to travel a bit more in the pursuit of capturing a broader audience. I am also working to expand my online presence so when I’m not participating in pop-up markets I can still connect with customers.

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
The person who taught me most about work was my grandfather. He was a man, who had no more than a third grade education, but he set the tone for what it looks like to accomplish goals while remaining grounded spiritually, financially, while remaining humble. He was a man of few words but his example is what drives me today. He always told us, never to beg for a seat at anyone else’s table. He would tell us “if you need something and can’t figure out how to get it on your own then you come to me first, and if I can’t figure out how to help you than Sister you know you’re in trouble” That has always stuck with me. Never beg for anything from anyone, but try your best to find a way to figure it out. That is and will always be my mindset. Make a Plan, Figure it out, and Execute.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would say to the younger Tonya. Never allow the fears of others to hold you back. Ever! Why? Because if so, you will never get the opportunity to meet new people, see new places, and have other experiences. Often those same people will be in the exact same spot when you return so LIVE girl, LIVE!

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What’s a belief you used to hold tightly but now think was naive or wrong?
Becoming a Full-time Reseller would be easy was my biggest naive mindset. How hard can it be I thought. You get to shop, resell it, and make a few extra dollars I thought. The biggest misconception EVER. Why? Because if you don’t take it seriously or stay committed it just will not work. Sure you can take the easy way out and do the bare minimum however eventually it will be reflected in your brand. Many may think taking short cuts is the way, eventually though the cracks in the armor will start showing.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
That I lived in my authentic truth. The same person they met in person who shared a smile, story with or embrace is really, who I was an entrepreneur and a genuine soul.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.vintagemodmix.com
• Instagram: @vintagemodmix
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/vintagemodmix
• Youtube: Vintage Mod Mix

Image Credits
Photos: Latonya Brabham