Two Black entrepreneurs share how they made their 1st million out of their small apartment

Joseph Evans III and Brandon Patton had their separate careers before coming together to found a business. Evans was a real estate executive while Patton was a marketing professional and a social media influencer.

Their diverse career background was a source of strength for the duo as it propelled them to greatness within a short period of founding men’s skincare and grooming, Evan Alexander Grooming. The company derives its name from Joseph’s last name and Patton’s child’s name.

They started Evan Alexander Grooming after noticing a gap in the men’s skincare and grooming industry. Patton in particular had done extensive research in this area and even started a YouTube channel to share tips on men’s issues as well as educating them on growing a healthy and attractive beard, according to Black Business.

The two entrepreneurs left their respective jobs to start the men’s grooming company after executing a well-thought-out plan of saving enough money to survive one year of not depending on the company’s coffers.

With a team of six, they started branding and marketing the company. They also leveraged social media to popularize the company. Also, they built networks within the grooming industry, including manufacturers.

Evan Alexander Grooming has an interesting twist to its founding. The company started in a small apartment which was turned into more than living quarters for the two entrepreneurs. The apartment was the first office of the million-dollar firm that is changing the face of the men’s grooming industry.

Without the understanding of their neighbors and the property management company, Evans and Patton’s dream would not have come through. They praise them for being understanding and patient with them as they turned their dreams into reality.

Within a short period of running the firm, the duo recorded their first $1 million and they are showing no signs of slowing down.

Besides founding Evan Alexander Grooming, the Black entrepreneurs are also investing in educating and empowering others like them. In this regard, they have started a Facebook group, Black Men’s Beard VIP, to dispel stereotypes about men with beards and sharing self-care tips.

In addition, the platform “provides research, guidance, and lifestyle content for men globally who are committed to standing out in the way they look, dress, and maintain their appearance.”

Advising young, up-and-coming entrepreneurs, Evans and Patton stress the need for teamwork, collaboration, and dreaming big.

“Both Brandon and I sincerely feel that dreams are attainable with the right motivation, planning, and community support,” Joseph told Black Business. “We are eternally grateful to have grown our business with the help of a strong team behind us. We are accomplishing our personal goals and doing fulfilling work. We weren’t afraid to bet on ourselves and it’s paid off in many ways. Our vision was not executed alone. Our teamwork made the dream work.”