Today we’d like to introduce you to Brian.
Hi Brian, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I started Lake Anna Threads in 2012 after my parents bought property on Lake Anna. I’ve always loved spending summers on the lake, and I wanted to find a way to take a little piece of Lake Anna with me whenever I went back home to Northern Virginia or traveled somewhere else.
Since I minored in graphic design in college, I started creating my own Lake Anna-inspired apparel—mostly just things that I wanted to wear myself. What started as a creative project and a way to represent a place I loved gradually turned into something much bigger. Friends and other people at the lake started showing interest in the designs, and that eventually grew into Lake Anna Threads.
Over the years, the business has continued to grow through new designs, more apparel offerings, word of mouth, and the support of the Lake Anna community. It’s been really rewarding to see something I started simply because I loved the lake turn into a business that allows me to share that same love for Lake Anna with other people, especially returning and new customers! You can find me on select Saturdays at the Mineral Farmer’s Market, where I sell all of my products from 8am-12pm.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Of course, starting your own business always comes with its challenges. For me, one of the biggest struggles in the beginning was simply getting the word out about a new business. Lake Anna Threads started as a small idea, and I didn’t have a large budget for advertising or marketing. I had to be creative about how I got my products in front of people and found ways to grow the business without spending more than I could afford.
Funding was another challenge, especially in the early years. I had to be careful about how much I invested into inventory, new designs and advertising, while also figuring out what products people actually wanted. Every dollar spent on the business had to have a purpose.
Over time, I learned that word of mouth and building a strong connection with the Lake Anna community were some of the most valuable forms of advertising. Social media also gave me a way to reach more people without the cost of traditional advertising. As the business grew, I was able to reinvest more into marketing and new products, which helped Lake Anna Threads continue to grow.
It definitely hasn’t always been a smooth road, but I think those challenges have been an important part of learning how to run and grow a business.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Lake Anna Threads is technically a part-time business for me, although there are plenty of nights when it feels like a full-time job when you own your small business! Between designing new products, planning upcoming releases, managing social media and figuring out ways to grow the brand, there is always something to work on.
During the day, I work as a multimedia specialist in Washington, D.C., so creativity is a huge part of my professional life as well. I have a background in graphic design, video production and storytelling, and I think those skills have played a big role in helping Lake Anna Threads grow. Whether I’m designing artwork for a new shirt, photographing products, creating a social media video or coming up with a new way to promote the brand, I’m able to use the same creative skills that I use in my professional career.
I think one of the things that sets Lake Anna Threads apart is that the creative side of the business is very hands-on. I’m in charge of the designs and the overall look and feel of the brand, rather than simply putting a logo on a shirt. I’m always thinking about what will resonate with people who love Lake Anna and how I can create something that makes them feel connected to the lake.
What I’m most proud of is seeing how something that started as a creative outlet in 2012 has grown into a recognizable part of the Lake Anna community. I love that I’m able to combine two things I’m passionate about—creativity and Lake Anna—and turn them into something that other people enjoy and are proud to wear.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I think the best way to find a mentor or build a strong network is to simply put yourself out there and be willing to talk to people. Some of the most valuable connections I’ve made have happened naturally through work, the Lake Anna community and other people I’ve met along the way.
I also think it’s important not to be afraid to ask questions. When you meet someone who has experience in an area you’re interested in, most people are willing to share what they’ve learned if you show a genuine interest. I’ve found that you don’t always have to approach someone with the mindset of, “I need this person to be my mentor.” Sometimes it’s better to build a relationship first and let that develop naturally.
For me, networking has really been about building relationships and being genuine. You never know when a conversation or connection will lead to a new opportunity, a helpful piece of advice or even a friendship. I’ve also learned that networking is a two-way street. I try to be willing to help others and share what I’ve learned as well. Some of the best professional relationships come from people supporting each other and growing together.
Pricing:
- T-shirts $23
- Hoodies $39
- Hat’s and Visors $19
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lakeannathreads.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lakeannathreads/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lakeannathreads
