Happy September Philly! We’re back this month with a First Friday Interview! Today we’re interviewing a West Chester recent grad, entrepreneur and woman business owner- Destiny Deniz and her brand Xo Dest Design.
Philly PR Girl: So, how long have you been selling hand-painted items, and when did you know it was time to take your business seriously?
Destiny Deniz: I started Xo Dest Design, unofficially in February of 2019, painting canvases to make a little extra cash on the side of my babysitting job. It snowballed and by the summer I was selling hand painted crafts, sneakers and denim online all over the country as well as working alongside a few local boutiques. In august of 2019 I officially registered Xo Dest Design LLC in NJ! I was having so much fun creating and connecting with people all over the country and even internationally through my growing platforms. It wasn’t until Covid struck that I sat down and truly absorbed that what I’d built was a career path rather than a hobby! I decided I would learn everything I needed to in order to add an addition to the brand – women’s clothing.. In September of 2020 I launched “Shop Xo Dest” , curated pieces by me, to my website xodestdesign.com to sell alongside my custom sneakers and accessories.
PPRG: It is clear that you love what you do. Where did your passion for art begin?!
DD: I absolutely love to create! I have always used art as an outlet and I’ve been interested in painting since I was old enough to hold a paintbrush. Interestingly enough, in high school my art teacher voiced his opinion to me and my mother that he believed I was not fit for AP art or a future career in the art industry which discouraged me for a while. I ended up starting as a psychology major at West Chester University and then switching to communications media and culture, but it wasn’t until crafting for my sorority “big little ceremony” that I found myself painting again! I am so beyond grateful to be able to do what I love as my job!
PPRG: Where do you find inspiration for your designs?
DD: I love to study pop culture and trend predictions in order to adapt my ideas with my own personal twist. I love the idea that you can take a trendy, popular product, like Nike Air Force 1s for instance, and make them one of a kind. It’s such a cool way to allow for self expression – I’m super passionate about art and fashion so combining them is everything.
PPRG: What sets your style apart from other retailers?
DD: I believe that what sets me apart from other retailers is the ability to work with my customer to make their vision a reality on a variety of mediums. I’m very open to new opportunities and projects, so when a customer requests something I haven’t done before- their Céline bag painted for instance, I figure it out and it drives me!!
PPRG: I see that you are able to add your personal touch on really anything. What is your favorite item to customize?
DD: My favorite things to customize are sneakers and denim! I love how adding a little personal touch to a basic sneaker catches eyes, but painting denim allows for so much more surface are! Just takes so much longer
PPRG: Do you have any advice for young artists and entrepreneurs?
DD: Just start! You never know how big the seed you plant will grow unless you try.. Be authentic and find what makes your brand different.. Be resilient! Building something doesn’t happen overnight, it takes so much effort!! Hard work, endless hours and trial and error. I didn’t want to work a 9-5 and in return now I work 24/7 (and beyond happy with that!!)
There you have it! Another local entrepreneur and woman-owned business for you! Make sure to follow, shop and support Destiny! For more interviews like this, make sure to browse our blog!
