As a creative company we get the privilege of working with amazing brands and designers day in and day out. We recently caught up with Sejin Kaleb, Founder of Gravity LA for an interview to discuss launching a new brand, how to stay passionate in design and running a business with a small team. Check out the interview below and see why Gravity LA inspires.

Q. What's the story behind Gravity LA?

A. The concept for Gravity LA started after I participated in a mission program in Cambodia, where we taught English and helped in crisis centers. While there, I met a lot of volunteers and saw issues of financial resources for volunteers who wanted to help. Because of this issue we created a brand that allows us to give back through fashion.

Q. Did you study fashion or design in college?

A. I actually studied hospitality in college and nothing in the business disciplines. I met my wife and she was a fashion major and was key to helping me create our brand.

Q. Did you run into any issues financially when getting started?

A. Not having a financial background hurt a bit, because we could have made better choices. Be prepared to have a slower stream of sales in the beginning, so plan to have enough cash to cover expenses. Over the long-term we will pursue debt funding in order to keep ownership where it stands today.

Q. How do you strive to be different in a crowded space?

A. First off, people will always say not to jump into a space that is crowded, but you just have to work on what makes you different. We focus on having a strong brand aesthetic and being cohesive. For us its all about great quality clothing and accessories. 

Q. What sales channels do you guys like to use?

A. We sell through our web store online and focus on good graphics. Wholesale has been good to us as well and we find our way to trade-shows yearly. Event sales and pop-up shops are great ways to interact with customers. They are cheaper than retail space and night markets are super cool. With our growth and new partnerships, we now have our own storefront and this is super exciting.

Q. How do you plan for seasonal launches?

A. We always start with a lot of research and use Pinterest for planning and inspiration. I make a conscious effort to write down design ideas as they come up. Try to be two seasons ahead at all times and once designs are set we move on to the next season.

Q. How does it feel when you see someone wearing your brand?

A. So cool to see someone in our designs. We started at just one.

Q. How do you spend your downtime?

A. Honestly, its hard to find downtime, but when we can sneak it in, I love to watch Netflix and just hang out.

California inspired and true to their roots. Gravity LA is an awesome hip brand and with the launch of their new retail location in Hollywood Hills, we are super excited to see what comes next.