William Wilson Partners with Allen Edmonds Shoes
Celebrity clothing designer, William Wilson, known for being one of the most exclusive custom clothiers in America, has entered into a partnership with men’s shoe manufacturer Allen Edmonds as a brand ambassador. The agreement will allow his custom clothing firm, William Wilson Clothing, to provide its clients with the full line of highly respected men’s shoes, including custom shoes, without having to go to the store. So clients can order their suits, shirts, skirts, trousers, overcoats and shoes without ever having to leave their home or office. This is the first apparel partnership for William Wilson Clothing.
“No suit is complete without a great pair of shoes. My customers had often asked if I was going to start making shoes, or if I had recommendations for shoes. I knew it was important to provide that service, but I also wasn’t going to rush into an agreement just to say I provide them. I wanted something that was commensurate with the William Wilson brand. Allen Edmonds has a legacy
of quality, a reputation for superb customer service, and a commitment to sticking to its core values. The fact that it is an American company was icing on the cake. After meeting with Paul Graangard, President and CEO of Allen Edmonds, and Heron Laing, GM of the Allen Edmonds store in the upscale Southpark area of Charlotte, NC, I knew this was the company to partner with. I look forward to a long, and productive, relationship between Allen Edmonds Shoe Company and William Wilson Clothing.”
In honor of the new partnership, for the month of January, clients who purchase 2 William Wilson suits will receive a pair of Allen Edmonds shoes.
To schedule an appointment, or to learn more about William Wilson Clothing
Log on to WilliamWilsonClothing.com
The William Wilson Black Label Party
The William Wilson Black Label Party was an overwhelming success. Thank you to everyone that came out. I truly appreciate you taking time out of your busy schedules to support the 3rd anniversary of William Wilson Clothing.
The Black Label Party was held at the private residence of Doug Ehmann, at the Trust Building; Charlotte’s most exclusive residential building and home of Michael Jordan. The unit is on the market, by the way, for $1.6 milllion. All food was provided by Chef Michael Bowling, and was a common source of conversation throughout the night. Photography was provided by Ron Deshaises of Treasured Events of Charlotte, and Kevin Douglas of Captured by Kevin. Music was provided by Kevin Porter of Elite Entertainment. Gift bags were sponsored by Remy Cointreau, and contained bottles of Remy Martin VSOP and Macallan Cask Strength. And the drinks were professionally mixed by mixologist Johnny Walker.
The Black Label Party was the star-studded event of the year. Attendees included current Carolina Panthers James Anderson, Legadu Naanee, and Jason Williams, NBA legend Eric “Sleepy” Floyd, former NFL players Al Wallace, Mo Collins, Leonard Wheeler, Hess Hempstead, and Collin Branch, NASCAR drivers Brad Coleman and Landon Cassill, and ESPN Analyst Justin Kutcher. Even Bobcats President Fred Whitfield made an appearance. Charlotte CEOs Michelle Fish of Integra Staffing and Bankston Partners, Ryan Stone of Jetpool, Real Estate Superagent Shane McDevitt, of McDevitt Real Estate Agency, Tom Kakadelis of Outland Cigar, Heels.com CEO, Eric McCoy, Todd Albaum of Scarlet Plus, and Sonya Barnes of the International Fashion Style Academy were also in attendance.
The much anticipated William Wilson “Exclusivo” cigar was introduced to the cigar savvy crowd, to outstanding reviews. The unanimous consensus was, it is an extraordinary cigar, and well worth the 2 years it took to develop it. Many liked its subtle blend of a smooth blend, with a slight robust bite, accented with a lovely hint of coffee and chocolate, and no aftertaste. Pre-orders were taken and delivery will begin at the beginning of February.
I would like to personally thank everyone that has helped make William Wilson Clothing the success it has become. Without you, I am just a country boy from Arkansas with a wild idea. I could not have done this alone. It took all of you to make this happen. Thank you again.
God bless and dress well,
William Wilson, CEO
William Wilson Clothing
William Wilson to Design Jacket for Bronko Nagurski Winner
From the Grammys, to the Oscars, to NASCAR, if there is a high profile sports award to be given, celebrity clothing designer, William Wilson appears to be the man to call. The Bronko Nagurski Awards are no exception. William Wilson has been chosen to design the jacket for the winner of the 2011 Bronko Nagurski Award. This is one of the most prestigious awards in all of sports. It is presented to the top defensive player in college football. The award will be presented on December 12 at 7PM, at the Westin Hotel.
Previous award winners include some of the most recognizable names in the NFL. Some of the legendary winners are Warren Sapp, Champ Bailey, Charles Woodson, Terrell Suggs, James Laurenitus, Brian Orakpo, and last year’s winner Da’Quan Bowers. This years finalists are nothing to sneeze at either. They are Mark Barron from Alabama, Morris Claiborne from LSU, Luke Kuechly from Boston College, Whitney Mercilus from Illinois, and Devon Still from Penn State.
“The Bronko Nagurski Award is about consistency in excellence, at the highest level. The William Wilson brand operates on the same principle. To partner with such prestigious brands as the Bronko Nagurski Award and The Touchdown Club was an easy decision.” says CEO, William Wilson. “I only partner the William Wilson brand with brands that share a common creed. John Rocco has done an amazing job with the Bronko Nagurski brand, and I look forward to a long lasting relationship and productive relationship.”
No one knows who the winner is. That secret is kept well guarded. But whoever it is, they will definitely be well dressed. They will be presented with a midnight black, custom sports coat from the William Wilson Black Label Collection. The Black Label is an invitation-only collection, and it one of the most exclusive clothing brands in the world. Though the jacket will be priceless, a regular sports coat from the collection has a starting retail price of $3500.
Shut Up and Do It
I’m just gonna come out and say this. Do you know why many of you aren’t successful? You don’t deserve to be. Why? It’s simple. You talk too much, and don’t work hard enough. You TALK more about being successful than you are willing to SACRIFICE to be successful. Until you are ready to commit to being successful; just shut up. Stop holding our ears hostage. Stop telling everyone what you are going to do “one of these days”. We all have that friend, buddy, or colleague that since the day you met them, they have always told you what they need to do, but you never see them do it. They are always talking about success, but they never commit to having any.
Success doesn’t accidentally happen. You don’t just fall into it. You work for it. You fight for it. You risk for it. And you sacrifice for it. Sometimes you win, and sometimes you lose, but you fight. You get knocked down and you get back up. THAT is where success comes from! I laugh sometimes when I read my Twitter timeline and I read “Lets Go!”, “Let’s Get It”, “Make it Happen” and all the other stuff. I can read their timelines for a month and not see what they are doing to actually “Get It”. It’s bravado. Don’t get me wrong. I say it sometimes too. But then I make something happen. Not everything I make happen results in success, but they do result in a lesson learned. A lesson I wouldn’t have learned just typing “Let’s Get It” on Twitter and then going about my usual routine. Yelling words of encouragement, with no plan of executing it, is cheer leading. “Let’s Go?” Yea right!
On Christmas night at 12:30 I sent out a tweet asking 1 simple question: “Whose working?” The people that responded were the ones I thought would respond. They were on their computers planning for 2011, while most were out partying. They were exactly who I thought would be at home working. Because I see them all year doing the same thing. They don’t tweet about parties, they don’t tweet about their relationship problems, and they aren’t constantly re-tweeting what everyone else is saying or doing. They are moving forward. They are sacrificing. They have put their heads down and committed to being the best. They will be successful. Or at least they have the best chance. I’m not saying, you can’t party. I’m not saying don’t enjoy yourself. But I AM saying, if you don’t fully commit, you won’t fully grow.
While sitting at my computer at 12:24 Christmas night, I came up with an incredible idea, that I will be launching soon. I’m giving away $100,000 dollars to a fortunate person that follows me on Twitter and “Likes” my Facebook FanPage. This is going to be an incredible branding opportunity. I wouldn’t have come up with this in the club. I also formed a strategic partnership that I will be announcing next year. I wouldn’t have done that in the club either.
I’ve had over a hundred people ask me what am I doing for New Years Eve. I told them “I will be in church. I am giving God my real time, not my obligatory, or spare time.” Many of them applauded my actions. Some even said, they needed to do that. To which I responded, “Why don’t you just do it then?” They have a variety of different answers, but it all comes down to where your priorities are. I’m not saying they should be like me, or that I am right and they’re wrong. I started doing this a couple of years ago, and my life began to change. I started becoming more successful; and the craziest goals I could think of began to be exceeded. This has worked for me, and I will keep doing it.
Success is a fruit that takes time to ripen. We are about to embark on not only a new year, but a new decade. Now is your chance to commit to greatness. I’m no one special, if I can be successful, you can definitely be. But you have to commit. You have to be 100% in. Otherwise, you’re only fooling yourself, and wasting a ton of time and money. Buying a pack of business cards and building a website doesn’t make you a success. It doesn’t even make you a business. I can build a website, and buy business cards that say I’m a neurosurgeon; but you don’t want me cutting into your brain. Trust me! Hard work, dedication, commitment, and sacrifice are key ingredients to success. If you aren’t willing to give it 100%, then why bother? Why start a goal or a business if you aren’t willing to work, fight, and sacrifice to see your vision come to life? If you choose the club over planning. If you choose sleep over research. If you choose the party over the paperwork; that’s fine. Just don’t be upset when your competition leaves you in their dust. After all, at least you got your party on. Until next time…
God Bless and dress well,
William Wilson, CEO
William Wilson Cloting
Don’t Make The Mistakes I Made This Year
I want to personally thank you all for helping make 2010 an incredible year for William Wilson Clothing. Like any company, we have had our share of ups and downs, yet it simply made us a stronger brand. As you know, I’m a transparent guy. I like to help those I can. I have made some good and bad decisions this year, some could have been catastrophic, but God placed people around me to make sure it wasn’t. In hopes of helping you avoid some of the mistakes I have made, I will let you in on some of my LEAST desirable situations.
First, I waited too long to put together a team. I treat my company like it’s my child, and I didn’t trust anyone else to take care of certain things. I tried to do everything myself. As a result, some of my greatest accomplishments went unnoticed.
For example, I did Calvin Richardson’s suit for the Grammys this year. He was recognized as “Best Dressed on the Red Carpet”. This is a big deal. For a local clothier from Charlotte to even be doing a suit for the Grammys should have at least warranted some interviews, not to mention being named best dressed. But it went relatively unknown. I may never repeat that feat again, but again it’s a lesson learned. Fortunately there’s a bright side to this lesson, Calvin has been nominated again for the Grammys, and I will once again be doing his suit. This time it will be the William Wilson Black Label Grammy debut. And I’m determined that it receives its proper press.
Second, I contracted with a PR firm and didn’t have the outcome I anticipated. I will take the blame and say I did this without fully understanding how PR works. I assumed they kind of took the lead in this arena, since they were the experts. Apparently, I wasn’t as involved as I should have been. I now know EXACTLY what is a reasonable expectation, and I will make sure to leave no window of doubt concerning my expectations next time. In addition, I will ensure that I don’t allow myself to feel as if I’m not a big enough client to demand the attention I feel I should have received. Again, my fault.
Third, I hosted my first golf tournament, The William Wilson Celebrity Invitational presented by Jetpool. The tournament, and the pairings party, was a smashing success. Everyone had a great time. You would never guess the mess we had with the food. I will show the guilty parties more respect than they showed me, or my events, and not get too detailed. Let’s just say I thank God for providing me with a sponsor that was more involved with the event than the food sponsors. We were in a precarious position, because the ball was dropped and we didn’t know until 48 hours before the event. This actually left us in a tight spot up to 20 minutes before my event was set to start. Through Jetpool’s professionalism and preparedness, we were able to form a contingency plan to keep a potentially catastrophic and embarrassing event from happening. I have three words of advice on this one: “Trust but verify.” I didn’t think of this, it was actually a quote from Pres. Ronald Reagan.
Kevin Conway,with girlfriend Angel Taber, wearing William Wilson Black Label on the Red Carpet at the NASCAR Awards.
Fourth, I again was not prepared to maximize an opportunity in front of me. NASCAR driver, Kevin Conway, won the 2010 Sprint Cup Raybestos Rookie of the Year. Kevin debuted the William Wilson Black Label, the most exclusive line of men’s custom suits in the world, at the NASCAR Awards Banquet in Las Vegas on national television. Again, as incredible as this was, it went relatively unnoticed, except by you, my loyal fans. Even some people in the media that knew about it, let the moment pass; preferring to write yet another article about one of the 300 local fashion shows taking place in Charlotte.
As you can see, I made some huge errors in judgment. I made many, many more as well, but I don’t want to bore you with them. Fortunately, I have learned from my mistakes. The first thing I did was acquired a mentor, Leonard Wheeler. Next, I began to assemble my team. God has put some incredible people in front of me to help guide me. Now I have Alexander Sok as my Director of Creative Development and Operations, Lilly Pad & Pen as my Editorial Firm and Kaytlyn Lackey to head my Video department. On Christmas Eve, I added our first intern, Grace Mills to serve on board our Graphics department. I feel these individuals, as well as others I will add to the team, will help William Wilson Clothing fill some voids in our brand. I look forward to what the New Year will bring. We have some incredible projects in store for 2011. I hope God blesses your 2011 to be more amazing than you could ever dream of, and that this blog will help you avoid making the same mistakes I did. Until next time…
God bless and dress well,
William Wilson, CEO
William Wilson Clothing
On The William Wilson Radar: Model: Seth Carter
As a CEO of a premium luxury brand, I am bombarded with offers and requests to mentor people. Due to my busy schedule and responsibilities, I cannot always acquiesce these requests. But every once in a while, I meet someone that makes me sit back and take notice. This happened recently with a young model by the name of Seth Carter.
Now Seth is a different kind of cat. He’s a good looking kid, and he has a great body. These are things you expect from a model. But he’s extremely quiet. At first glance, you would almost take it as arrogance or conceit. He’s doesn’t really talk much, and he is prone to just disappear for minutes at a time, when there is nothing going on. When it’s time to work, he does what he’s told, and may just disappear again until the next time you need him. The kid is so cool, he even moves slow. I joke with him and tell him if he ever got shot, he’d be okay, because it would take him 30 days to bleed to death.
Well yesterday, I was leaving rehearsal for a fashion show I’m walking in, and Seth was outside. I walk over to say good bye and he asked
me if it was okay to ask me a question. I said sure. I will not divulge the details of our conversation, but over the course of what I thought would be a 5 minute chat, turned into an almost 30 minute conversation in a cold parking lot. It was very reminiscent of the conversation I had with my mentor, Leonard Wheeler. Over the course of the conversation, I could tell that asking questions and advice wasn’t extremely comfortable for him, but he did it anyway. That took courage. It takes a strong man to ask another man for help, or advice. We had a good talk and I could tell he was really processing what I said. I told him,”If you want to be successful, you have to stay focused and be prepared to lose friends. Be prepared to have naysayers and haters. And build yourself a network of successful people. As your career blossoms there will be days when the people in your circle will not understand what you’re going through. You will need those people that have been where you are, to help you get through it.” We also discussed other stuff. But the important thing to me was, he WANTS to be good. He wasn’t looking for a hookup. He wants to bebetter. He wants to be the best. Metaphorically, he wants to eat fish, but he wasn’t asking me to give him a fish. He was asking how to be a better fisherman, to catch his own fish.
That is the way you stand out in a crowd. There are many people out there that do what I do. I don’t have the answers to everything. I often have more questions than answers. But I bust my tail to be the best I can be, and I seek advice and counsel from others. And I keep God first. I believe God has blessed me because I strive to do the right thing, I work hard, and ask for advice from those wiser than me. That’s how Seth got on the William Wilson radar. He is already an extremely talented model. Other than Yandrick Paraison (who may be the best I’ve ever seen, period), Seth is one of the best around. He is off to a good start, and is doing things the right way. He has a few things to work on (and who doesn’t) but he is going to be a star. Seth is being groomed by Lesan Entertainment under the guidance of DeAngelo Byrd. He is getting good advice and is connected with a firm that is looking out for his best interest. That’s important. In the dog-eat-dog world of the fashion business, it’s great to have some protection. Until next time…
God Bless and dress well,
William Wilson, CEO
William Wilson Clothing
The William Wilson Black Label Debuts At NASCAR Awards Banquet
The William Wilson Black Label Debuts at NASCAR Awards Banquet
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (November 30, 2010) — Just when you thought William Wilson Clothing was done racing laps around its competition, they strike again.
On December 3rd at the Nascar Awards Banquet in Las Vegas, the 2010 NASCAR Sprint Cup Rookie of the Year, Kevin Conway, driver of the #7 Extenze car; will debut the new ultra-exclusive William Wilson Black Label collection. Conway will be dressed in a midnight black tuxedo made of William Wilson exclusive celebrity grade wool, with a silk lapel and pant stripe. The interior of the jacket will be a red and black iridescent paisley lining. In addition, it will have a special Rookie of the Year label inside, as well as a very subtle diagonal ROY in matching white thread on the angled French cuff. The official price of his wardrobe won’t be disclosed, but it is estimated to be north of $4,500.
“I prefer William Wilson Clothing because of the world class service and attention to detail through the entire process; from schedule flexibility, material selection to design. William Wilson is my personal clothier,” said Kevin Conway.
William Wilson Clothing CEO, William Wilson, adds, “An ultra-exclusive brand like the Black Label, cannot just be released, it must be debuted in a venue reflective of its status. It was a no-brainer to debut the William Wilson Black Label with Kevin. He is a winner, a competitor and one of the most stylish guys in the garage area. Kevin is very particular about his style, and he has in-depth involvement in his look. He also places a premium on individuality and exclusivity. He is the type of client the Black Label was created for.”
In the world of ultra-premium luxury clothing, the Black Label is without equal. It harmoniously combines distinctive lines, meticulous attention to detail, unmatched quantity of appointments and uncompromising standards. It is a unique product crafted in accordance to the wishes of each distinguished client. No expense is spared in the creation of a William Wilson Black Label garment, and it leaves nothing to be desired. The Black Label is available solely to private clients of William Wilson Clothing. Private client privileges are gained by invitation- only, or through strategic partnerships with high-net worth retailers.
Visit www.williamwilsonclothing.com for more information about the William Wilson Black Label. The NASCAR Awards Ceremony airs Friday, Dec 3rd on Speed Channel at 9pm EST.
###
About William Wilson Clothing
William Wilson Clothing is the most exclusive brand of fine gentlemen’s clothing in the world. It is not a store. It is a private clothing brand that specializes in the individual needs our high profile and high-net worth clientele.
“Create My Cranberry Drink” Contest
William Wilson, CEO William Wilson Clothing
I want my own cranberry drink. If Diddy can have a drink, so can I! But here’s the thing; I want you guys to help me create it. I want a drink I can call my own. I’m not saying it will become a household name like an Arnold Palmer (lemonade and ice tea), but why couldn’t it? The Arnold Palmer wasn’t always an Arnold Palmer, now was it? The person who creates and names the coolest drink, will receive a free custom shirt from- the soon to launch- William Wilson Black Label. Now this is not your ordinary shirt. I can’t reveal too much about the Black Label (since we haven’t officially lauched it yet (my PR team would kill me) but I will tell you this- not everyone will be able to get this shirt, (and not just because of the price). By the way, this is a $250 shirt.
Now there are a few rules.
1. I drink cranberry juice when I’m out, So it must contain cranberry juice.
2. It has to be non-alcoholic. I don’t drink, and I want something little kids can drink as well as adults.
3. You have to explain the combination you picked.
4. You have to be able to make it sound cool.
5. It has to match my personality, style and brand.
6. You have to give it a cool name. I’m all about branding, so it better not be a cheesy name. (I’m partial to calling it the Clothier- so it better be good)
To enter- just place your idea in the comments section of the blog. Winner will be contacted shortly after selection.
I look forward to your creations. If I get two of the same drink combinations, the best name and description will be the one I choose to select. This may be your only chance to get a William Wilson Black Label shirt. So don’t pass it up. I will be promoting this contest via other media soon. So you are getting a head start. Until next time…
God bless and dress well,
William Wilson, CEO
William Wilson Clothing
You Have To Be “A” Man – To Be “The” Man
William Wilson- dressed casually as he sits on the steps of his plane.
I am often reminded of why ignorance and alcohol should not occupy the same space. Last night I participated in an event called “The Best Bachelor Auction 2010″. It was a very nice event, for a incredibly worthy cause. We were raising money for children of domestic violence; an issue that is very near and dear to my heart. Thank yo to Metro-proponent for inviting me.
Many of the bachelors were dressed very nicely, and some even had a change of clothes to transition from the meet and greet, to the actual auction (and yes- I was one of them). As the night progressed, people were having a great time, money was being made, and women were enjoying the show. However, some of the bachelors appear to have forgotten they were at an event, not at the club. They forgot they were there to be auctioned off, not pick up women in the process. And last, and by no means least, that it was about the charity and the women, NOT about getting drunk. Now let me go on record as saying, it wasn’t the majority of them. It was only about 2-3 of them. The rest were complete gentlemen. I don’t think it’s a coincidence that the ones that acted a fool, just happened to be the most casually dressed ones there. There’s a reason places have dress codes.
All it takes to ruin a person’s good time is too much alcohol. I watched some bachelors (again, a couple-not many) get drunk and act a pure fool over the course of the night. 1 to the point where the lady that won the date didn’t even want to follow through with it. I watched one bachelor flip off the crowd because he didn’t raise what he thought he was worth. Later in the evening, I saw one of the other bachelor’s flip off a young lady that I happened to be having a conversation with at the time. Though they knew each other, it was still inappropriate behavior. We had a conversation later in the evening about that; though I’m not sure he was sober enough to remember today.
Now this, in NO WAY, is a reflection, or condemnation, on the event, it’s sponsors, or the organizers. It was fun and people had a good time. And the organization made some money. This is a condemnation of immature behavior of boys that don’t know how to act, when called upon to be men. This is a repudiation of the behavior of a supposed men that acted with the maturity of junior high school students. But mostly, it’s my perspective on a behavior I witnessed that is but a mere a microcosm of larger issue with our men today.
We need to get back to acting like- no- BEING gentlemen. We need to learn to act like men of character. We need to be men little boys aspire to be. We need to be men mothers use as a guideline to train their daughters about men. We need to be men people describe as charming, sophisticated, and debonair. We need to be examples of proper etiquette, not the reason clubs close down every 6 months. We need to be in the church on Sunday, like we are in the club on Friday and Saturday. We need to be in school, like we are at the party. We should give our ladies the same attention we give to our fantasy teams. We should spend as much time trying to impress our women with love, as we do impressing our boys with acts of sexual conquest. We need to be the type of men that make our ladies heart race with excitement of knowing we are in their lives, not because they are afraid of how we will act when we get angry, or drunk. We need to focus more on looking into our ladies eyes, not just getting in their pants. We need a vocabulary that includes more than elementary school words and slang learned from the latest hip hop hit. We need to be the example of how to dress, not be mid 20, 30 and Lord help them, 40 year olds that look old enough to be Lil Wayne’s father, but dress like we’re his little brother.
We need to be men. If you want to get treated like a man, be a man. If you want to be respected as a man, be a man. If you want the rewards of a man, do a man’s work. Quit acting like heathenish buffoons, and college frat boys and start acting like the men you were meant to be. And ladies, you have your role in this as well. Do you know why men show up to work on time? Because they will get fired if they don’t. Stop hiring bad employees, just for the sake of having an employee. Stop giving your number, your time, and your bodies to men that don’t treat you with the love, care and respect, you so richly deserve. It has never worked for you before, why do you think it would work this time? If you start holding men to a standard, the real men will naturally rise about the cesspool of mediocrity that you are currently forced to sift through.
Oh.. And to that poor lady that had her experience ruined, and cancelled the date with the drunk bachelor. I don’t know if we are, but if we are Facebook friends- message me. I’ll be your date. You don’t deserve to be cheated out of a good time when all you did was support a good cause, and do a nice thing.
This is the way I see the world. Some of you won’t agree. Some of you have been cussing me out this entire time. That’s fine. You are entitles to your opinion, as am I. maybe I helped some, maybe not. But either way, I appreciate you taking the time to read my blog. Until next time…
God bless and dress well,
William Wilson, CEO
William Wilson Clothing
You Can’t Be a Preacher in the Strip Club!
William Wilson, CEO William Wilson Clothing
When you have branded yourself a certain way, there are places you can’t go, and things you can’t do. Not that they are illegal, or immoral; but because they are contradictory to your brand. As a business owner, your brand is a factor of future success. Without proper branding, you can only expect to have limited success- if that.
Simply defined, branding is labeling. Breitling Watches is a watch manufacturer, Breitling is a high-end luxury timepiece. William Wilson Clothing is a clothing manufacturer. William Wilson is an exclusive custom clothing brand. Get it? Branding is the foundation of how you are known as a business, or a person.
What is your brand? By industry standards, William Wilson is defined as “an ultra- premium luxury brand”. That’s easy to write. But I also have to live my brand. As a CEO, especially with my name on the company, I am never off work. Everything I do, everywhere I go, everything I say, and even the media I allow myself to be in, reflect on my brand, both corporately and personally. Therefore, they are tied to my success. The mistake many small business owners make is believing that people do business with them because of their product. Rarely is your product, or business, as important to others as it is to you. People do business with people, not companies. Who you are as a person, has everything to do with how you are seen as a brand.
It is also important to connect yourself to people that reflect, or protect, your brand. I have suffered business disappointments, and put the integrity of my brand at risk, by attaching myself to firms that either didn’t understand the William Wilson brand, or just couldn’t provide the service they offered, to a brand like mine. I ended up with people that were more concerned with self promotion, being in the spotlight, and looking to promote big stars than they were in handling my business properly. I severed those ties, not because I didn’t like those people personally, I did and still do. But I have to think of the way my brand is represented. If your brand is at risk, your success is at risk.
Now I will concede, to many people I may appear obsessive about my brand. That is correct. A lot rides on my success; and not just for me. As my brand grows, so do the brands of the people on my team. As my brand grows, I can help others with their education and their careers. As my brand grows, I become more and more of a role model to children and adults alike. As my brand grows, I can help raise more money for non-profit organizations. So you see, the importance of my brand integrity is crucial not only to my success, but to people I don’t even know. Who knows, you can be someone reading this blog right now that I don’t know, but you may look up to me. I have a responsibility to you.
So here are some things I do that protect my brand:
1. I keep it clean. I don’t curse, belittle others, or otherwise poorly represent myself, or my brand, on my tweets, blogs, Facebook posts, and in public venues. (FYI- If you re-tweet other people’s garbage, you may as well have said it yourself. Spreading garbage is speaking garbage)
2. Take time for everyone. I’m always mindful to acknowledge everyone that approaches me, whether they email me, or want to take a picture with me. Even on social media, if you comment on my Facebook wall, I reply. I may only be able to say thank you, but if you take time out of your busy day to reach out to me, the least I can do, in return, is respond.
3. Choose events wisely. I don’t go to events that start after 10PM unless I know what they are about. (FYI- No “Networking event” starts at 10 with drink specials. Those are called parties.)
4. Don’t fall for gimmick marketing. I don’t go to ANYTHING if it has the description “Grown and Sexy” in it. (My experience is 9 times out of 10, they are neither.)
5. Know when to go home. I rarely spend more than an hour at an event. I get in, take pictures, do my business, and leave. Being in the event when the lights come on is like going to a strip club in the daytime. It’s not illegal, it’s just sad and pathetic)
6. And on that note. I don’t go to strip clubs, nor do I sell to strip club owners. ( I just don’t see the point in the first part. As for the second, I speak to and support organizations that empower and help rebuild women’s self esteem and value. It would be hypocritical to turn around and sell clothing to individuals that make their money doing the opposite. If that offends you- you are welcome to purchase your clothing from ANYONE else. In fact I encourage it. Not all money is good money.)
7. I don’t drink. I have never had alcohol in my life, so it’s not like I stopped for the sake of my branding, so I can’t accept credit for this. I don’t think drinking is bad. But a drunk in public is a sad and pitiful sight. (And ladies, it’s even worse when we see you sloppy or “tipsy”. It’s neither cute nor lady-like! I’m just saying.) Not to mention the pictures, or repercussions that result from them can be catastrophic.
8. I support the community. I leverage the value of the William Wilson brand to bring credibility, and funds, to events that may otherwise not have happened. Though my brand is still in it’s infancy, I do what I can, to help who I can, do what they dream.
9. I connect with like-minded people. There are 3 people that I have grown to love like brothers; Ryan Stone, Bill Wiley and Leonard Wheeler. Bill is a spiritual rock. He is transparent, vulnerable and genuine which is a sign of a man who has true inner strength. He’s genuine and always has a good word, and it comes from a place of love and care. My relationship with Ryan started off as business and turned into a true friendship. His honesty, business acumen, and commitment to transparency allows me to say something that I don’t often say, but I completely trust him. My partnership with Jetpool (Ryan is the CEO) has played a major role in the remarkable branding success of William Wilson Clothing. Being with people that think like you, or even more advanced is how you grow and learn. And how you open other doors to success.
10. I got a mentor. No one has all the answers; and we have to be accountable to someone. The rapid success of my company often places me in positions in which I am unfamiliar. I asked my friend Leonard Wheeler to be my mentor. I cannot put into words the respect I have for Leonard. He shoots it to me straight. Sometimes what he says hurt, cuts, or may even make me angry. But I know it’s the truth and it comes from a place of love. Many of the changes you see, and will see happen in the near future for William Wilson Clothing is a direct reflection of Leonard’s influence on my life, and my business.
Branding is a crucial part of your success, both personally and professionally. Who you display yourself to be, is what people see you as. Business lessons often mimic life lessons. Many of us never see success because we focus on the wrong things. Your brand is the foundation of your reputation and what people will think of you. Take time as ask yourself. How do others describe me? How do they describe my company? The way they answer these questions are how they see your brand. If you’re happy with what they say, then keep doing what you’re doing. If not…. Until next time.
God bless and dress well,
William Wilson
William Wilson Clothing Launches New Line
William Wilson, CEO William Wilson Clothing
My business is built on certain creeds in life. they include 1. Never fall in love with your idea. 2. If more than 3 people give you the same advice consecutively, pay attention. And 3, support those that support you, and many others.
Now I am a lot of things. At times, I can be cocky, arrogant, and in some instances self absorbed. But one thing I am not, is unappreciative. I have received an enormous amount of love and support from my Facebook and Twitter families. Every time I have an event you guys show up and support, you read my blogs, you watch my videos and you give me feedback. You will never know the times I have been going through things personally, and your encouraging words have been a Godsend. But, I digress.
A common phrase many of you tell me is “I love your clothes. When I can afford it, I’m gonna buy something from you.” Though I know many people tell me that out of courtesy and support. I know many of you really want to purchase my garments. I understand my price point restricts many of you. I have thought about this and it seems wrong that the people who support me the most, are the ones that cannot afford my product. That’s why I am announcing to you first, the launch of a new line with a lower price point for William Wilson Clothing.
I have just completed a deal with one of my fabric manufacturers to provide me with 150 fabrics at a reduced rate (but not reduced quality). This allows me to provide 150 different, fully customizable suits (with no reduction of quality) starting in the $500-$600 range. I will also have limited shirts at $120 dollars. I know this may still leave some of you out and I apologize, but I can only lower my prices so much. I am also limiting the number of clients I take. (I have to maintain a level of exclusivity or I undermine my core brand.) Plus this will allow my new line clients to have the same feeling of exclusivity as my premium brand clients.
I am letting you in on this first. My official press release will be released Friday. Please know that I truly appreciate all the love and support, you guys give me. I can’t take all of your advice, but trust me, I am listening. Until next time…
God bless and dress well,
William Wilson
My Thoughts on the The World Trade Center Issue
William Wilson, CEO William Wilson Clothing
Let me start by saying this: I spent 8 1/2 years in the Navy defending the United States. I lost friends in the World Trade Center. I lost friends in Desert Shield. I lost friends in Desert Storm. And I lost friends in the Persian Gulf. The vast majority of the pain i have felt, due to personal loss, in my adult life have been due to wars in which we were either fighting against, or defending, followers of the Muslim faith. I understand people not wanting a Muslim cultural center build so close to Ground Zero. I get it. Really. I don’t agree, but I do understand.
But here is my concern. For the last couple of days, I have been listening to propaganda, rhetoric, talking points, and verbiage generated to make this issue a political one and villainize an entire group of people based on the extremist view of a few. I may be a little more sensitive because as a young black man, I am often judged by stereotypes, due to my skin color, regardless of what positives I have done, or accomplished. I am careful not to paint the Muslim faith as a sinister, evil, terrorist organization bent on destroying America. I have Muslim friends, and they vehemently oppose the views of radicals and extremists. They are hard working people that just want to make a living, provide for their family, and feel safe walking down the street. They are good people. We have differences of opinion when it comes to our faiths, but the core of both faiths share many commonalities in reference to the treatment of others. Not all, but some.
I’m not outraged or even angry about them wanting to build a cultural center 2 blocks from Ground Zero. As a matter of fact, I think the opportunity to build something that can allow Americans and Muslim- Americans (I hate having to make that differentiation) to get to know each other better is much needed. I think if more people took a minute to reach out to our Muslim friends, and vice versa, we would not see each other as enemies. I encourage people getting to know each other and understanding each other better. Nothing but good can come from that. But I’m afraid what will happen if they build the center so close. Not because of 9/11 but because I think the anti-Muslim mindset that is being perpetuated by our politicians in hopes of gaining a few percentage points in the polls have poisoned the common sense pool. They have taken a group wanting to build a cultural center (not a mosque! a cultural center with after school programs and a basketball court) and turned it into a calculated slap in the face of America. I don’t see it that way. In fact, a point I have never thought about was presented to me yesterday. A Muslim friend said to me, “I lost my fiancée’ on 9/11. I lost friends and family on 9/11 too. Hundreds of us lost friends, family and loved ones. There was not a memo sent out to Muslims to stay away from the Trade Center because it was going to be attacked. Now people that were my friends don’t talk to me. Parents don’t let their children play with my children, and we are looked at as terrorists every day. I was born in America, and my country has turned it’s back on me because of some idiot extremists. We felt loss too.” That statement struck home with me. I teared up as I heard the pain he felt, and as he spoke of his undying love for America. The next week he tried to sign up for the Army because he was so angry, and was attacked on the way to the recruiting center. I had never thought about it in that manner.
I’m not trying to convince you to agree, or disagree with the cultural center. I have no desire to go their. But I would implore you to do this. Reach out to a Muslim and just ask their views on the matter. Ask how they feel about 9/11. Ask them how their world has changed. I’m sure many of you who are reading this and cursing me to the top of your lungs, don’t have a single Muslim friend, and all your hatred is based on 9/11 and news clippings. It wasn’t that long ago, when people looked at African-Americans that same way (some STILL do). We are America. Our forefathers came here because they wanted to have, share, and live by their beliefs. And more importantly, they wanted others to be able to do the same. We don’t have to agree on everything. But just because you don’t agree, doesn’t make you enemies. Start a dialog. Expand your horizons. You may find the same person you looked at sideways yesterday, ends up being one of your best friends. Or at least a good associate. But then again, what do I know. I’m just a clothier, and this is my perspective. Until next time…
God Bless and dress well,
William Wilson
15 Fun Facts About William Wilson
William Wilson, CEO William Wilson Clothing
Much of my life is pretty much available on Facebook, Twitter, and Foursquare. It’s pretty much an open book. However, I tend to keep my private life extremely private. I prefer to keep the personal events and people in my life away from the hectic parts of my career. However, I’m often asked what are things about myself, that most people wouldn’t know. Well, most of those things that people don’t know are for the reason I just stated. I want to maintain my privacy. But here are a few little nuggets based on the questions I was asked from my previous survey on Facebook.
1. Is single with no kids.
2. Loves God, his mother and the Arkansas Razorbacks.
3. To this day has never met his father.
4. Loves to play golf.
5. Is a chronic workaholic.
6. Doesn’t like odd numbers.
7. Has a 540 sq.ft. bedroom, but sleeps on his couch almost every night.
8. Has a bedroom in his house that he hasn’t been in since August of 2006.
9. Has never had alcohol, smoked, done drugs, or been to a strip club.
10. Though his life is very hectic and visible. Prefers to spend private time watching television and surfing the internet.
11. Is much better at business than he is a relationships.
12. Biggest fears: The day I wake up and my mother doesn’t.
13. Loves public speaking and speaking to kids.
14. Collects luxury watches. Has over 20.
15. In elementary school, used to buy $1 worth of candy and sell it for $5.
The William Wilson Celebrity Invitational presented by Jetpool
The William Wilson Celebrity Invitational will be held at Carolina Lakes Golf Club on Tuesday, Oct 12th. It is the most exclusive golf tournament in the Carolinas. Limited to 50 players (25 of which are invited celebrities). There are only 25 spots open for amateur play. The William Wilson Celebrity Invitational is not only the most only exclusive tournament in the Carolinas, but it promises to be the most fun and fast paced. Though there are only 25 amateur spots available for players, spectators are welcome to come watch, take pictures, and get autographs.
Celebrities already committed are current Carolina Panthers James Anderson, Rhys Lloyd, and Charlie Martin, Tony Womack (former New York Yankee), and NASCAR Driver Kevin Conway. Carolina Panther legend Mike Minter will be on hand to hit the ceremonial tee shot. For a full list of confirmed players click here.
Our hole-in-one prizes are second to none. Take a look at this lineup:
1. A full custom wardrobe by William Wilson Clothing (5 suits and 5 shirts) valued at $15000,
2. $50,000,
3. A a private jet trip to anywhere in the US (Courtesy of Jetpool) and a custom suit fitting by William Wilson at 40,000 ft) valued at $20,000, and last but certainly not least:
4. A Lamborghini Gallardo! That’s right, I told you this isn’t your daddy’s golf tournament. Value: $240,000. We are even auctioning off a chance for one fortunate person to take a shot at all 4 prizes. That’s $325,000 worth of prizes. That will change your life.
Here is the Rundown:
25- 2 man teams (1celebrity/ 1 amateur per team)
Format: Stroke play (handicapped)
3 Trophy Categories (low celebrity score- low amateur score- low team score)
Entry Fee - $250.
Spectator Tickets $10 limited number available
Golf Course: Carolina Lakes Golf Club
Beneficiary: Autism Speaks
Pairings Party: Monday Oct 11, 7-9pm at Jetpool Private Hanger. There will be 2 private jets and luxury cars for attendees to view.
Player Experience:
There will be a private pairings party where teams will be decided.
Each player will have their own marked parking space at the Carolina Lakes
Each player will have their own designated space on the driving range (with an assistant)
Each player will be announced on #1 tee box (just like the PGA tour)
Players keep the score of their playing partner
If any ball is hit more than a driver’s length into the woods. The player is to drop, take a stroke, and keep play moving.
If you would like to volunteer or be a sponsor of the most exclusive golf tournament in town, please email me at WilliamWilsonGolf@Gmail.com
There will be more information upcoming. Thank you in advance for your support. Until next time….
God Bless and dress well,
William Wilson, CEO
William Wilson Clothing
20 Gentleman’s Rules of Dress
William Wilson, CEO
When men look at me and tell me, “I don’t own a suit.”, my first thoughts are, “Where do you take you lady when she wants to be treated like Cinderella? Where do you take her to celebrate those monumental occasions? What do you wear when you are trying to make a good impression somewhere?” You can tell a lot about a man from his closet. Ladies, look in his closet, and you can see where you will spend most of your life with this man. If everything in his closet can be worn as appropriate dress to a bar or club, don’t expect to spend much time at the most exclusive places in town. If it’s full of blue jeans, t shirts, and 2 pair of slacks, don’t expect to see a pair of Jimmy Choo’s in the near future. And if you do, be prepared to be going out with your girlfriends when you wear them.
But for those more refined in our dress, and want to look our best for ourselves and the important women in our lives. I present to you “The 20 Gentleman’s Rules of Dress”. Yes, contrary to the thoughts, and dress of my sartorially challenged brethren, there are rules to fine dress. These rules have been passed down from generations of fine dressers. Men who take pride in not only looking like a gentleman, but being a gentleman. Men that understand that true power makes it impossible to go unnoticed. Gentlemen that understand that your wardrobe speaks when your mouth is closed. For these gentlemen, the rules of dress are not just a guideline, but a way of life that is time honored, and respected to the furthest degree. Remember, there is a reason that when you see photographs of the most successful men in the world, 95% of the time, they are wearing a suit. Jeans are for dress down, not for everyday. I will not give all the rules today, but I will give you enough to get started.
Rule #1: Proper fit is everything. Nothing cheapens your look like ill fitting clothing, especially a suit. If you can afford it, buy custom. There is no substitute for clothing made specifically for your body, and per your individuality and likes. But if custom isn’t in your budget, buy off the rack, and have it tailored at your alterations shop. We call that “Poor Man’s Custom”. Trust me, it’s far superior than strictly wearing it straight off the rack.
Rule #2: A gentleman’s closet should have a minimum of 4 suits. 1 black, 1 gray, 1 navy, and 1 brown or tan.
Rule#3: Don’t brag about an off the rack suit. A gentleman knows the most important name in his suit is his own. Therefore, he buys custom. If you spend over $1000 on a suit, and you buy it in a store, you are being taken as a fool. Store suits, even Gucci, Prada, Armani, and Brioni are mass produced suits that cost the department store less that $200 to buy. They depend on the brand name being sufficient to make you ok with overspending on their product. A real luxury consumer has his suits and shirts made. As I said in a Facebook status once, “Big dogs have tailors, not store receipts.”
Rule #4: Suits should be 100% wool, or linen suits. There is no exception
Rule #5: Your suit for church may not be appropriate for work. If you wear a gray suit, gray hat and gray gators; that may fly in church- not in corporate America.
Rule #6: Do not button the bottom button of your suit or vest. EVER!!
Rule #7: Your jacket sleeve should never touch the back of your hand. If it does, the sleeve is too long. Period. End of debate.
Rule#8: A little of your shirt sleeve should show below you jacket sleeve.
Rule #9: Never wear a button down collar with a tie. A button down collared shirt is a sport shirt, not a dress shirts. It’s tacky, and in poor taste. And before you say, “I see men wear that all the time.” I see kids with their pants hanging off their butts, but that doesn’t make it proper dress. It’s the equivalent to wearing flip flops with a suit.
Rule #10: There is no such thing as a short sleeve dress shirt. Unless you work for Geek Squad, NEVER wear a short sleeve shirt with a tie.
Rule #11: Always wear a t-shirt: T- shirts not only make a white shirt brighter. It also serves as a barrier to the skin so your shirt doesn’t stick to your skin (which looks horrible, by the way). It also absorbs mild perspiration and allows the shirt to not only hang better, but provides longer wear.
Rule #12: Dress socks should always cover the calves. I hope I don’t need to explain this. Also, socks should match, or be darker than, the suit.
Rule #13: Ties should be made of silk. Do not wear polyester ties. And for goodness sakes, do not wear a tie with fish, or cartoons, or that craziness. The only exception is on Father’s Day, and only if your kid bought it. If your wife bought it, tell her you love her, then proceed to explain why you CAN NOT ever wear that tie in public.
Rule #14: The Windsor is the gentleman’s knot. It’s symmetrical and looks good with every collar. The four- in- one knot (which is most common) is a juvenile knot. the 4-in-1 is the one that always looks like it is crooked, no matter what you do. That’s because it’s an uneven knot pattern.
Rule #15: Cufflinks are never inappropriate. Cufflinks make a statement. They say power, style, and sophistication. If these aren’t you, well…..
Rule #16: Always wear a nice watch. It doesn’t always have to be expensive. But buy the best watch you can afford.
Rule #17: Never need a haircut. It shows poor hygiene to look unkempt. Specify a day to get your haircut every week, and put it on your calendar.
Rule #18: Maintain detail hygiene. Your nails should be trimmed, beard and mustache maintained, and your shoes should be shined. Trust me, ladies notice.
Rule #19: Don’t swim in your cologne. Your cologne should be a pleasant accent to your image, not show up 10 paces before you and then just linger after you leave.
Rule #20: Increase your vocabulary. You ask what does this have to do with dress? There is nothing more disappointing than a man that looks like he came off the cover of GQ, then when you speak to him, he sounds like he failed the 9th grade- last year! Your vocabulary is a vital part of you appearance.
These are just a few of the rules to dress. I understand that not everyone is financially able to buy custom suits. That’s ok. If you can’t afford it, then buy off the rack and have an alterations person take the suit apart and fit it to you better. It won’t be as good as a custom suit, but it will look much better. But the other rules are easily adaptable, and a must if you want to look like a true, well dressed gentleman. Fine dress is not a game, it’s a lifestyle and it is important to realize that you are addressed by the way you dress. Your outward appearance is a direct reflection of what you feel inside. And it’s what people respond to. As my friend, Bill Wiley, once said. ” If you don’t get your props it’s probably your wardrobe’s fault!!! Until next time…
God bless and dress well,
William Wilson, CEO
William Wilson Clothing
The Difference Between Style and Fashion
William Wilson, CEO William Wilson Clothing
I’m sorry to break the news to you about this, but it’s the truth. Fashion and style ARE NOT the same thing. Fashion is about trends. Fashion is a seasonal decree, dictated by a 4-5 block stretch of high-end real estate in Manhattan, known as Madison Avenue. There, some of the supposed brightest minds in fashion convene and decide what to tell the world they should be wearing this season. Notice I said for the season. Because unlike style, fashion is seasonal. It’s inconsistent, and flighty at best. Fashion is the man/woman that dates someone new every 4 months, and then dumps him just because she likes to change her surroundings. That’s what fashion is. Every season, there is a new look that makes last year’s look immediately inappropriate. Not because there is anything wrong with the quality, construction, or condition of the garment, but because a NEW line has come out. When you think of it, fashion is the silliest, yet most revered to, snake oil scam in the world. How else can you get normally intelligent people to go out and spend money (often that they can’t really afford to spend) on a whole new wardrobe, just so people don’t look down on them when they are in public in last season’s attire? I mean seriously?
I’m about style! And I recommend my clients to be the same way. The reason? Style is personal. Style is not dictated by the label on the jacket, or the designer who created the garment. You own your style. You own your look. Your style is an integral part of your personal brand. When you own your style, you allow yourself to display consistency and individual personality. Fashion is the creation of a fashion think tank called a retail clothing brand. Style is chosen, maintained, and intimately attached to the individual wearing the garment.
William Wilson- dressed casually as he sits on the steps of his plane.
My style consists typically of a custom suit (William Wilson of course) and dress shirt (also William Wilson), a tie (optional), pocket square, diamond earrings (4ct each) and a luxury timepiece. That’s my professional style. casually, I will tend to wear jeans, and a French cuff shirt, and sometimes gym shoes (depending on the occasion). The earrings and timepiece are a foundation staple to my style and therefore are always on. This is how I dress, it doesn’t matter how many new styles come out, I am not affected because I am the designer of my style. I refuse to let a group of people sit in a conference room and dictate what I buy with my money, or whether or not I am in style or not. I dictate my style, not Madison Avenue.
If you want to have true control of your image, you must have true ownership of your style. That is the only way. Buy what fits your style and personality. Don’t just buy garments because the designer is hot this season, or you because you saw it on Sex and The City2. Trust me; it will be a cleaning rag by this time next year. You can always make adjustments to your style. But make them because you want to. Not because a bunch of fashionistas decided your wardrobe was out of style. Which is basically what you are doing when you scurry to always stay up with the trends and fashion.
I hope you found this to be useful. Until next time…
God bless and dress well,
William Wilson
There’s Never A Bad Time For Cuff Links
William Wilson, CEO William Wilson Clothing
I spend 80% of my waking hours in a suit. I don’t always wear a tie, but there is usually a good chance you will see wearing my signature accessories: my diamond earrings, a luxury timepiece, and pocket square (especially if I don’t wear a tie), and cuff links. I would not recommend you wear earrings to your place of employment, especially 4ct each, like I wear. That could be detrimental to your career (or just look crazy). But I would highly recommend 2 of the 4 accessories I mentioned, A nice timepiece and cuff links.
To me, cuff links are the quintessential male accessory. They are versatile, elegant, and (can be) inexpensive. I am in the process of replacing all of my regular shirts with French cuffed shirts. I like the look, the flexibility, and option of wearing them on any occasion, from casual to black-tie. If you’re wearing a long sleeve shirt, you can wear cuff links. I am known for wearing jeans (when I actually do wear jeans) and a French cuffed shirt. I think it provides an added level of style without going too far.
Your choice of cuff links is important though. You may not want to wear a pair of gaudy, pretentious cuff links if you are trying to be low key. By definition, that doesn’t work. But if you are wanting to add a personal touch to your style, cuff links are an effective-yet inexpensive (though they can be VERY expensive) way to do so. For those of you not fully committed to the cuff link game, I would recommend whats called a convertible cuff. It can be worn as a regular buttoned cuff shirt, or with cuff links. Many of my clients take this approach. It provides them with options. And they come in handy if they’re in a rush and forget their cuff links. 
They can just button the shirt and keep going.
I actually look to see if men are wearing cuff links when I meet with them. It doesn’t change my opinion of them, but I like to see it. It speaks to a heightened sense of style, image, and dedication. It doesn’t make you a better businessman. I just think it looks better. But this is my perspective. Until next time…
God bless and dress well,
William Wilson
A Lesson in Toughness
William Wilson, CEO William Wilson Clothing
Imagine vomiting, while driving 190mph, racing 42 other drivers, for 600 miles, in 140 degrees. Sounds brutal doesn’t it. It sounds more like a scene from a futuristic prison movie with a sadistic warden that entertains himself by making prisoners race for their lives. But this is no movie. This isn’t even a plot for a book. This is what happened Sunday to Kevin Conway as he raced in the Coca Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. As a former military man, and as clothier to a number of NFL players, I have seen my share of displays of toughness. I have seen men get cortisone shots to play in a football game. I have seen men willing to stay and fight even with bullet holes in them and bleeding profusely. One place I never thought I would see the type of toughness to impress me enough to write a blog, is on a NASCAR track. But that is exactly what I saw this past Sunday.
Kevin Conway is is the driver of the #37 Extenze Ford, and is competing for Rookie of the Year. Kevin was an associate, that turned into a client, that has turned into a friend. His story is one of perseverance and dedication. He wasn’t born with a silver spoon in his mouth ands he has worked for everything he has achieved. Even with his rise to the sports highest series, Kevin has remained humble and very accessible to fans, as evident by his appearance at a Tweetup at Charlotte Motor Speedway last Sunday.
When I was hanging with Kevin at the Tweetup, who would’ve thought just a few short hours later, his world would turn completely upside down and while having one of the best performances of the season, he would be living in his own private hell. Kevin got extremely sick early in the race. Before long, as I read his tweets (@ExtenzeRacing), it became obvious. Kevin was not in a good place. I read the first report of him throwing up. Now vomiting is bad enough. But imagine vomiting into a helmet, as you drive 190mph, inches away from other cars going 190mph, for 600 miles. A helmet that you have to keep on, mind you. My friends, that is toughness personified. Most people would’ve called it a day. I know, I’ve seen it happen numerous times. As a matter of fact, Michael McDowell was standing by to take over for him. But Kevin never relinquished the wheel. He toughed it out, finishing 35th.
Kevin Conway- Driver of the #37 Extenze Ford in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series
This led me to wonder. How many of us have that same drive and toughness. I read tweets of people “On the grind”,or “making it happen” or have all these dreams. This is fine, but success comes from persevering through tough times; even when you don’t want to. In your darkest hour, you find out who you really are. It’s easy to move forward when things are going well. But what about when things go bad? How tough are you? Many of us would like to think we would stay in the car, but we wouldn’t. I see people give up on their dreams of becoming successful business people everyday. Sometimes, they have bad ideas. Sometimes, they are too arrogant to ask for, or receive, advice of others that know better. And sometimes, they just give up because it’s too hard, and they aren’t as tough as they thought.
Imagine if everyone gave up when times get tough. Where would the success come from. What if Jesus would have given up on us, when we fell short our 100th time? What if Ben Franklin would’ve given up on discovering electricity? What if you would’ve given up on your dreams? Where would you be now? Where would others be? I am able to help a number of people achieve success, through the success I have attained. Don’t get me wrong, I haven’t “arrived” yet, but I am well on my way. What if I gave up? And don’t think I haven’t thought about it. There have been times when I have sat in my house and just cried. When I was scared, confused, and felt like no one else understood, what I was trying to do. When I didn’t know which way to turn, or where to go. There were times when I wanted to give up. When people thought I was crazy and my goal was too high. But I didn’t. I persevered. I called on the 2 people all good Southern boys call on. Jesus, and my mama. Afterwards, I reached down to the same place Kevin did and said “I’m staying in the car.” I stayed in the car and drove,and I reached the finish line. I didn’t always finish first, but the important part is I finished.
Success isn’t about always winning. Sometimes it’s about participating and putting yourself in a position to win. As my friend Michael Foster (@lyfelong) CEO of SwaggerTV.com calls it, “Position of Power”. Life is like chess, the moves you make determines the power of the pieces. And you must always be 3-4 moves ahead of where you are. Do you have the toughness to be successful? Do you have the toughness to be great? Only you can answer that question. For only you know how far you are willing to go to see your dream through. Until next time…
God bless and dress well,
William Wilson, CEO
William Wilson Clothing
Want to Get Treated Like a Lady, Dress Like One
William Wilson, CEO William Wilson Clothing
I tend to post gender neutral blog postings about business, style, or things that are happening in my life. But today I’m writing this post because I’m often asked what kind of woman I like. And I think my answer tends to surprise some people. This often leads to conversations that led to this blog post. To sum it up, I’m not attracted to women that dress too provocatively. I tend to feel they are insecure, lacking attention, and will eventually lead to a relationship ladened with drama, arguments, and unsolicited input from her girlfriends (who have no man). I know I’m painting with a broad brush, and I know it isn’t applicable to EVERY woman. But I have to draw on my experiences. After all, this is The William Wilson Perspective. If this isn’t you, don’t be offended. If it is, this is my perspective. I offer it out of love, and hope that it will give you a better insight to how you may be viewed.
I understand there is a distinct difference between being sexy and being trashy. There are some gowns and outfits that are extremely sexy, but are still tasteful. The dress Brittney Cason was wearing at the Sex and the City premier garnered a lot of attention from the fellas. (I know this because I heard the responses from men as she emceed the start of the fashion show). But of the responses I heard, none of them were crass, or objectifying in a negative way. It was a sexy, but elegant dress. Brittney is in great shape so
Jacinda Garabito, Dianne Gallagher, Me, Brittney Cason, and Jordan Fish at the Sex and The City 2 Premier at Mez
she can get every ounce of beauty out of a dress. It was appropriate for the occasion, and fully captured the theme for the evening. In fact all four women (Brittney Cason, Jacinda Garabito, Dianne Gallagher, and Jordan Fish), are extremely beautiful women that fully embodied the theme of the evening, and hit home runs with their impeccable attire. There were other women that displayed elegance and beauty at the event Kenetria Richardson (fiance’of NFL star Chris Harris), T-Strong (aka The Style Mavin), and Jameeka Whitten (JSW Media Group), Nadia Moffette (Miss North Carolina USA 2010) and her publicist Yolanda C. Broadie (YCB Agency).
On the flipside, there were some that honestly, should have known better. Now I don’t claim to the the bastion of knowledge in all things female fashion; far from it. But just because it’s fashionable, doesn’t mean it isn’t trashy. Just because it’s in fashion, doesn’t mean it’s for you. And just because YOU think it’s cute, doesn’t mean you don’t really look like a tramp to everyone else. Get mad if you want. I’m just saying.
I like women that dress classy, and respectful. I find female confidence to be very attractive. I believe a beautiful woman couldn’t hide her beauty if she wanted to. A classy, confident woman can not only catch my immediate attention, but they can occupy a space in my mind for a while. I am rarely moved by women that I see dressed up like high priced (sometimes cheap) call girls. Necklines to their belly buttons, clothes 2 sizes to small, and so much butt showing I sometimes question why even pretend they’re trying to cover it. Sure you will get attention, but is it really the attention you want? Do you want to be respected and considered a lady? Or would you prefer to purely be the object of someone’s sexual desire? Here’s a little secret about SOME guys that are just out for sexual conquests. He will be everything you’re looking for until he gets you in bed, or gets tired of being in bed with you. Then the interest disappears, and you WILL be replaced with another woman shortly. Now don’t put the blame on him solely. Yes, he’s responsible for his actions, but so are you. Stop getting mad at men because they only think of you sexually, when you leave your house looking like the cover girl for “I Need Sex Tonight Magazine“. You can either leave the house looking like someone a real man wants to date, or someone that a man just wants to lay, that choice is yours. You decide what you wear when you leave the house. Just because you CAN do something, doesn’t mean you SHOULD do it. You’re grown, you can do what you want. But there are consequences to your actions.
Now I’m not your father. I may not even really know you. But I do have an interest in this, and I will tell you why. I consider myself to be a good, honorable, respectable, God fearing man. I make my mistakes, and I am far from perfect. But I get tired of being grouped into the “all men are dogs” category, (especially from women that leave the house looking like doggy snacks, and get mad when dogs take a bite). Don’t leave the house looking like a stripper, meet a guy looking for a stripper, get treated like a stripper, then get mad because he didn’t treat you like an executive, and then bash ALL men. You catch a fish based on the bait you use. If you want a good man, look like a good woman. Want to get treated like a ho, dress like one. It’s not complicated.
Feel free to respond. I doubt that real, respectable, confident woman that have pride about themselves, and value their image will disagree with me. But I can be wrong. Let me know what you think. Just be respectful, and watch your language.
God bless and dress well,
William Wilson
Unintended Inspiration
William Wilson, CEO William Wilson Clothing
I attend Transformation Church. My pastor, Derwin Gray, inspired me today in church. That, in itself, is not breaking news. Millions of people are inspired every Sunday by their pastors. I’m no different. But what I think is noteworthy, is how he inspired me. It wasn’t his sermon (which was great). It wasn’t his delivery. It wasn’t his charisma. It was his exhaustion. Let me explain.
I was in the overflow area viewing the service. After calling the ushers to take up the offering, he came out to the overflow area. He saw me, spoke, gave me a hug and said he was going outside to get some air. I followed him and we spoke as we walked. Upon getting outside, he bent at the waist, with his hands on his knees and took a few deep breaths, much like a fatigued basketball player. As he rested, he spoke of us getting together to talk this week, and of preaching his third sermon since last night. He wasn’t complaining of being tired. He spoke as if he was sitting at his desk. Much like Jesus, “He never said a mumbling word.” After taking a few minutes to get his wind, he stood, walked into the church, stepped up to the pulpit, and spoke as if he had just woken up. I would never had expected that the man, who 2 minutes earlier, was bent at the waist getting his wind, was the same man leading, motivating, and inspiring the hundreds with charisma and energy like you wouldn’t believe.
Derwin Gray, Pastor Transformation Church www.TC521.org
It moved me. And it made me ask myself, “Am I leaving it all on the field?”
In front of me was a living, breathing illustration of a man that’s giving everything he has. And it is paying off. Transformation Church held its first service the end of January 2010, (yes less than 5 months ago). Since that time they have had to add an overflow area, and have added 2 more services, including a Saturday service. That’s divine progress. That’s God blessing his people.
I’m a social media nut. I’m on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn. All day I hear people talk about being “on the grind”. This is the silliest statement I think I have ever heard. To grind is to wear something away. It’s a burden. It’s a chore. It’s the polar opposite of producing. Maybe that’s why I don’t hear the people who are always on the grind reporting of big things they are doing. They are just constantly “grinding”. It’s not a coincidence that the people I see making big moves, are never “grinding”. They are working. They are planning. they are building. They are succeeding. They are accomplishing.
I saw the evidence that my pastor is leaving everything on the field. He’s giving everything he has. His tweets (yes my pastor ! He’s cool like that) are always uplifting, motivating, inspiring, and at times, if we are honest with ourselves, hard on us. He doesn’t publicize he’s leaving it on the field, he just does it. And now, I have seen it. And it has motivated me to do more. Be more. And give more. Upward. Inward. Outward. Right Pastor Gray?
Always Say Thank You
William Wilson, CEO William Wilson Clothing
On my birthday, I was blessed with a plethora of well wishers. From FaceBook, Twitter, texts, emails, and personal conversations I was wished Happy Birthday. One of my friends, who commented on my birthday on FaceBook, eventually expressed her aggravation with the amount of updates she was getting on her cell phone every time someone said happy birthday. But she was more aggravated because she kept getting my thank you’s also.
She asked, “Are you going to thank every single person?” I told her, “Yes. If someone feels I’m worthy to take the time to express a thought to, the least I can do is say thank you; and I prefer to do it personally.” I know the time will come that I will be too busy to answer them all personally. When that happens, I have a plan.
Some NASCAR drivers are backed up 2-3 years on autographs requested from fans in the mail. Now I know many of them are busy, but some are just lazy. Before Dale Earnhardt died, he was BY FAR the most popular driver in NASCAR. He received 1000 of autograph requests per week. This is not news. What is news is the fact that when he died, he was only 3 weeks behind, while at the same time, I’m told, Dale Jr was 2 years behind. The difference. Dale Sr took time every day he could just to sign things. Arnold Palmer and Richard Petty would sign every autograph until the last fan left the golf course, and the race track, respectively. Phil Mickelson does that now, too.
This is the right thing to do. I’m no big star (yet); but I am beginning to generate a following. People are listening, processing, and some following my lead. I inspire some of them to do better, or to just do more. And when they take the time to reach out, I’m humbled and I’m honored. The least I can do is to say thank you. I hate when I reach out to congratulate or praise someone, and they ignore me. It makes me think differently of them, and makes me wish I hadn’t contacted them. I never want to do that to anyone. When I get to the point my schedule is too busy to thank someone. I WILL hire a person whose sole purpose is to thank everyone that reaches out to me. That may sound silly but you know what, without the people supporting me, I wouldn’t be busy. I consider that just a part of giving back to them. I owe them that much. If i have never said thank you for supporting me, following me, or reading my blog; I want to take this time to say thank you. From the bottom of my heart. I truly appreciate all of your support
God bless and dress well,
William Wilson
My Great Night at the 25 Most Stylish Event
Last night was a great night for William Wilson Clothing. It was a testament to what God can do and how he can change your life on a dime. But before I get into why it was so great for me, let’s talk about what was really important: the real purpose for the event.
First it was to benefit the American Heart Association. Every dollar made went to the AHA. Brother Fred from 96.1 and Britteny Cason, (from everything else on the Charlotte Scene – I swear she has more jobs that a temp agency) were the hosts and they did an exemplary job. Various local celebrities and designers donated their time to help make the night special. The event was indicative of what you would expect from JSW Media Group and Charlotte Style Magazine, top notch, classy, and professional. Of course, Charlotte Seen was on hand taking care of the red carpet, and Kevin Hughes captured all the glory in pictures for posterity.
William Wilson with the cover of Charlotte Style Magazine. His client Mike Minter is on the cover in one of his suits.
Now, the reason it was a great night for William Wilson Clothing. First, my client Mike Minter was named as one of Charlotte’s 5 Most Stylish, and was featured on the cover with the other 4 finalist including T. Strong (aka @therealtstrong on Twitter). He was wearing a navy blue wool suit by yours truly. Then my client, friend, and fellow Arkansas Chris Harris of the Carolina Panthers participated in the Celebrity Go Red fashion show, and he tore it up as only “The Hitman” can. And lastly, I was named one of Charlotte’s 25 most Stylish people, myself. I’d say that is a pretty good night for a guy that just opened his door for business a little over a year ago, and isn’t open to the general public. This was a great night for me both corporately and personally, and I’d like to thank Charlotte Style Magazine and it’s staff for the honor.
But what I’m the most thankful for is that I have another testimony to the power of God, to tell when I speak to businesses about business practices, branding, and faith; or when I’m counseling my friends that are down and feel like they are never going to get ahead. I can even use this to lift myself up as well sometimes. It’s hard to believe how fast God works when you practice his principles. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not perfect and I have my vices like anyone else. But God knows my heart and always over delivers to me. I hope this never stops. I hope that people can look to the goodness that God has bestowed upon me, a country boy from Arkansas, and see that if he can do it for me, he can do it for them. So again I thank those that nominated me, Charlotte Style Magazine for choosing me, and most of all God for blessing me.
God bless and dress well,
William Wilson
You Can’t Always Charge Full Price For Everything
I’m a businessman. I love what I do, but I don’t do it for free. And I don’t expect others to either. However, I do expect to have an idea of what I am paying for. Especially if you deal with a visual medium, like websites or you are going to be managing something I can’t readily qualify, like PR. I was looking for a someone to design my website and I spoke to a number of great people.They had great words, but none of them gave me anything with which to connect. Just my own mental pictures, which history has shown is’t always the other’s picture.
There is a reason there are pictures in catalogs, because if you selling something meant to be seen, people need to see it. Especially if your describing a concept. Websites are concepts. In some manner suits can be as well, so I have to be able to draw out my idea for my sewers and my clients. Does this take time, of course it does, but it is necessary to get me to fall in love with your concept. Many business don’t want to take the expense of doing work they are not getting compensated for. They don’t see the big picture. In business this is called a loss-leader. You are basically doing work for free, or a reduced price, in order to gain business that will profit you down the road. It’s an investment in your success.
When I started William Wilson Clothing, I offered reduced pricing to specific people who could easily afford my suits. Why? Because having them as clients gave me credibility. Doing that for just one client gained me 3 more. I also donate suits to charities. This is not only a good thing to do morally, but it also gains exposure and brand recognition. All of these cost me in the beginning, but they paid off in the end. One of my best clients won one of my suits at an auction. He was so impressed with the quality and speed, that he continued to buy. To date, he has bought about 10 suits and 15 shirts in the last year.
If any of the web designers had taken the time to build even a quick mock up that I could have an emotional reaction to, I probably would have signed with them. But they didn’t. Sure they will have their reasons and excuses why, but at the end of the day, the end result is, they lost my sale and anyone I would’ve referred to them, because they weren’t willing to put in the sweat equity to earn my business. Same goes to the PR people I have talked to. None of them have given me a plan of action that they would take for my situation. They just tell me things that are possible. A lot of companies like to put the minimum into their client until they have a contract and are getting their money. Which is why, many of them are struggling.
Here is the takeaway for this. There is a reason dealerships let you test drive cars, why department stores have display televisions and appliances, why there are mannequins with clothing on them; to garner an emotional reaction. To allow you to visualize your self using the product. Can this be costly? yes. Is it effective? Absolutely. When people feel a connection or emotional response to an item or idea, they will more than likely purchase it. Put in some sweat equity and give me something to fall in love with. Give me something other than words and proposals. Give me something to like, not just something to sign, and maybe we can do some business.
God bless and dress well,
William the Clothier
Do You Know Who I Am?
I hate when someone calls me out of the blue to meet with me because they want to see “how our businesses can work together”. Especially when they is no feasible way for us to work together. It basically comes down to they just want access to my client list. For those of you who feel this is a bright idea, let me tell you now. IT IS NOT! I deal with high profile clients that do not appreciate being solicited, especially to someone else. If you ask me to do that and I don’t even know you, that further lets me know that you are not accustomed to dealing with highly successful, or high profile people.
But that isn’t what this is about. Today I’m talking about the geniuses that ask to meet with me, but have no idea who I am, what I do, or what I’m about. If you are going to request a meeting with someone, have the decency to do the research and get to know something about them. Nothing makes me feel like I am wasting my time more than sitting in a meeting, I didn’t request, and having to introduce myself. If you asked to meet with me, find out about me on your own. This isn’t a date, this is business. Look at my website, read my blog, look at my Facebook and Twitter updates. Find out as much as you can. This saves us both time, and potentially you a lost sale.
Business is about relationships. I won’t do business myself with people I don’t know; let alone introduce you to someone else in my circle. Now I’m not saying if you do your research you will automatically get my business. But I am saying that if you don’t; I guarantee you will not get my business. I don’t care if you are selling oxygen and I’m suffocating. I do not do business with people that are so disrespectful, incompetent, and unprofessional as to waste my valuable time requesting a meeting, but not doing their due diligence and preparing for it. Successful people don’t meet for the sake of meeting. We don’t fill our calendars with meetings, just to feel busy or important. We meet with a purpose, or we don’t meet at all. My time is valuable. If you don’t have enough professionalism to research the person, and company you are requesting a meeting with, you have no business meeting with them.
God Bless and dress well,
William the Clothier
William Wilson is the CEO of William Wilson Clothing, America's Most Exclusive Private Clothier. His clients are the who's who of corporate America, professional athletics, entertainment and politics.
