Paige Tate
Age: 19
Year: Junior
Hometown: Virginia Beach
Major: Fashion Merchandising
Why did you choose VCU?
It was the perfect location. Not too far from home, not too close. It was way cheaper than the other colleges I was looking at. Plus Richmond is such a beautiful city with infinite things to do.
How are you involved here on campus or in the community?
Well, let’s say I’m trying to become involved. I’m generally a homebody, so I don’t get out much.
People who know you, know that you have a great sense of style. Where does that stem from?
I love and try my hardest to be creative. Putting new outfits together makes me feel more creative.
You are the founder and creator of With Love, Woman. Where did you get the idea to create the brand?
Spontaneity, maybe? I knew I always wanted a brand or business of my own, so one day I decided to just do it.
How has your major helped you with your brand?
My major has helped in such an incredible way. I’m literally learning as I go with my business. Every time I learn something new in the classroom I look for ways to practice it with my brand. I feel like other than obvious mistakes, I have no reason to mess up; all the information I need is being taught to me.
What is the inspiration behind the t-shirt designs?
I love being a black woman, so I looked for ways to express that in my brand. My t-shirts are just an extension of my love for the skin I’m in.
Do you plan on expanding the collection/brand?
Definitely. There’s always room for growth in anything that you do, especially a business.
What do you hope will come from this brand in the future ?
I started this brand because I wanted to encourage other women to love themselves in spite of while possessing a signature lifestyle that’s unique to them (hence the name). In the future I hope this brand will be the go-to for any woman that needs to feel loved and encouraged.
Any last words for those who want to share their art but don’t know where to start?
Just get out there and do it! I know it can be scary and even intimidating in the beginning, but you just have to make up your mind that that’s what you want. You owe it to yourself to do something major like following your dreams. Don’t be afraid to fail, it’s inevitable, but not the end of the road.
P.S. With Love, Woman is currently hosting a Valentine’s Day giveaway on Instagram!