Debbie Harris
Founder – BeYourOwnBiggestFan
What do you do?
After learning that I had lost a sister prior to my birth to child abuse, I made a vow to empower the lives of children in need. In June 2016, I founded BeYourOwnBiggestFan with the goal to help people love and accept themselves without knowing exactly how I would do this.
One day while working out in my ‘Positive Mind, Positive Vibes’ tank I realized while looking in the mirror that I couldn’t read the very message that was meant to empower me. After much sweat and coming up with some designs, I took them to a local print shop and left with a prototype in hand.
With the support of many amazing women in business, BeYourOwnBiggestFan launched a line of apparel in September 2018 with the sales of tanks and tees at a local boutique’s Fall Fashion Show Fundraiser. The response from the community was astounding. BeYourOwnBiggestFan spreads the power of self love through thoughtfully designed apparel dedicating a portion of profits to empower children in need. Now with one word, one shirt (for now), and one person at a time BeYourOwnBiggestFan is well on its way, spreading the power of self-love and giving back.
What education, classes or training were helpful to you?
When setting up the legal side of the business I did use the UWSP Small Business Development Center to help guide that process. Otherwise, it was a matter of online research or “Googling” any idea or question I had.
Why did you choose this sort of work?
I would have to say that this is far from anything I’ve ever done or envisioned doing. Creating this concept, brand and mission, I feel, chose me to bring it to life. I am a Registered Nurse by education specializing in Senior Living. My personal interests are Health and Wellness, writing, personal development, speaking and presenting.
My mom has a very entrepreneurial and creative spirit that I share. She is also a Registered Nurse who branched off and created her own path. Watching her adapt her business ventures and grow has shown me that anything is possible if you work hard and believe in what you do and are determined to succeed.
What do you like best about your work?
I LOVE the feedback from women who are customers. I’ve gotten to know so many amazing women, learn about their struggles and success; each one inspires me to keep moving forward. I love getting to be creative, surround myself with positivity, and build community.
What advice would you give girls who want to get into your field?
I would like to be an example to girls to work on their mind, body, and spirit. I want them to know they shouldn’t be afraid to put themselves first. To figure out their passions, what feeds their souls, and understand the importance of work-life balance. To be their own biggest fans. To know that anything is possible and don’t be afraid to dream too big and take action. And last to define what success means to them.
What is an example of something you’ve had to overcome to get to where you are now?
My biggest obstacle was myself. When the idea of the concept came to me I was fearful of my idea being “stolen” and wondering how it would be received, the concept was unheard of. I had to start taking my own advice and jump. Once I made the decision everything else has fallen perfectly into place.
Anything else we should know?
I am open to collaborating on unique projects and fundraising events. There are some really fun and exciting things coming up in 2019, stay tuned on social media!
Instagram: @beyourownbiggestfan
Facebook: @BEyourownbiggestfanCo
Website (coming soon): www.beyourownbiggestfan.com