Success can’t be taught, but with passion and drive it can be achieved. Kristian Michael’s is in a position to convey that through these easy elements. Elements that for some may just be words, but for somebody like Kristian are the basics behind why K Michael Eyeware is what it’s today, because it continues to evolve.
Raised in a military family, K Michael spent much of this childhood traveling and moving around, which when you consider it gave him the opportunity to see more of the world in his teens than most people would in their lifetime. Spending most of his teenage years in New York, his fast-paced life and speed of determination were something that ran through K Michael’s blood before he even reached adulthood. From there begins the story of a man whose mission is not only to become a staple in the fashion and entertainment industry, but to make his every vision come true.
So what made K Michael interested in the world of fashion? It’s not glitz and glamour, but the ability to help someone feel good about themselves. Growing up, sunglasses for K Michael were all the time the accessory of choice that helped him boost his confidence when he did not all the time have the latest gear. New gear or not, it is a straightforward pair of colours that complement and define her personality, and obviously, her outfit. Confidence is among the factors behind K Michael Eyeware’s mission which has all the time been key. When you are confident, you feel good, and when you are feeling good, nothing can stop anyone from conquering all they want.
During his tenure at XRecords in A&R, K Michael became known for his glasses, soon becoming his trademark according to those around him. As the recording industry started to slowly turn for the not the best with sales plummeting as technology has brought music today, it was time for K Michael to reevaluate his role, and what route he wanted to take in his career. Having formed a bond with his mentor during his tenure in the music industry, it was some advice from this same mentor that persuaded K Michael to chase his dreams and not look back. There’s no turning back, no regrets, no what ifs, but moving on. It’s not about giving him another job, but about turning an idea into something, which in turn turns that something into a lifestyle and a brand. The brand whose journey he wants to control from start to peak.
After investing energy, time and his entire savings account educating himself in designing, manufacturing and licensing eyewear, K Michael’s up-and-coming journey began. A journey that is not all the time smooth sailing, but takes a few detours on the way. Many treks have several potholes that make their way to the top. It goes through not-so-fun times which eventually makes it all worth it. For K Michael, selling his condo to keep things afloat, investing all of his money into his ventures, together with vacations and new clothes being removed from the equation are only a few of the things he had to sacrifice to take his brand. to the top. It was when he undertook his first mall tour at Westfield’s San Francisco Centers, wrapped up the two-day event, and signed a deal with Shaquille O’Neal sitting courtside with him during All Star Weekend, that he realized that K Michael Eyeware was just beginning his journey. to the top.
Behind every successful entrepreneur stands an inspiration. Whether it is a person, moment, quote or event, there’s all the time a driving force. For K Michael, every moment that passes is an opportunity to make it occur, conquer fear and do something special to turn things around.
With an endless sky, K Michael Eyeware is only the start for this young entrepreneur. With Phase II of Shaquillie O’neal’s Dunkman Eyewear brand in the works together with a new mid-range eyewear line debuting in Summer 2015 and the launch of ISE Magazine, K Michael has also worked hand-in-hand with talents such as; model Sueki Sue, artist/videographer Cameron Cruce, Rachel Calabria, and Joyce Young in developing their brands.
When it comes to giving heartfelt advice to starting entrepreneurs, K Michael has one easy message. “Whatever it’s you are pursuing, ensure you are truly passionate about it, otherwise it won’t work. Chasing your dreams and starting a business can be very challenging, so passion is what will get you through the times. Find your passion, put God first, work hard, and let the rest fall into place. For K Michael, it’s the team that surrounds him that’s there every step of the way. From partner Amara Bunyavong, graphic designer Dominique Dwyer, producer Sean Anthony, photographer Keon Winston, web designer Tidus, publicist Rein Child PR, publicist Michele Wilson-Morris The Entertainment Bank, Seif and Fly Ferguson Blac Soap, and Omar Shaikh and Michael Angelo Munzo from Shaikh Films, every member of his team is essential. From passion to fashion, K Michael has proven along the way that determination, vision can certainly become reality.
“I wish I could look back on my life and say I went 12 rounds in the ring to make my dream come true. Not five rounds and giving up. Not eight rounds, but the official twelve rounds. Win, lose or draw, I can live with that result. Every moment that passes is a chance to turn things around, a chance to earn it. Time waits for no one. Let’s live, let’s work.” – K Michael
