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Dalia Ghanem,
Owner and Creative Director
T-Shirtat.comGot Sheesha? Perhaps some Arab Soul? Well then strut yourself and show the world how proud you are of your culture by wearing a shirt designed by Dalia Ghanem, 29, Owner and Creative Director of t-shirtat.com. In a time where world perceptions of the Middle East have gone from bad to worse, Ghanem has taken the initiative to promote and represent all-things good of her heritage in her t-shirt lines for men, women, boys and girls. A one-woman business venture, Ghanem has been able to successfully put her design and apparel background to use all while contributing to her culture in a positive way and having fun. Ghanem is a great example of how to create and successfully run a business with a positive mission. Check out her designs and what she has to say in this week's Young and Professional Profile.
Company
t-shirtat.com
Founded
June 2004
Website
www.t-shirtat.com
Name
Dalia Ghanem, 29, Owner and Creative Director
Hometown
Palisades Park, New Jersey
Current residence
Teaneck, New Jersey
Education
William Paterson University, BFA Textile Design and Graphic Design
Work experience
Liz Claiborne, Talbots
Ethnicity
Egyptian
About company
t-shirtat.com was created to break ethnic t-shirt barriers. The vision was to create a line of t-shirts that represented Arab ethnicities in a positive light especially since there were many t-shirts in the market but none that would positively and light-heartedly represent the Middle East. Although the line is not exclusive to the Middle Eastern market as other backgrounds can identify with Middle Eastern pop culture and have occasionally had a falafel or smoked a hookah.
Having broken into the untapped and much desired market for chic Middle Eastern inspired t-shirts, t-shirtat.com identifies with its customers through savvy Arab inspired slogans on trendy t-shirts, aptly named t-shirtat.com which translates to the plural of t-shirts in the Arabic language. The slogans and designs are determined by Arab pop culture; popular sayings & pop icons. t-shirtat.com is sold exclusively online and at many venues throughout the nation.
What are your responsibilities?
Everything from designing to order processing to shipping… I’m a one woman show!
What's the niche?
What sets my t-shirts apart from the rest is that they are primarily culturally driven, not politically, creating nostalgia and a cultural connection for the customer.
Most notable milestone
The first time I showcased my t-shirts at a street festival in NYC and the amazing feedback I received.
What's in store for the future
I intend on expanding the line to include t-shirts for kids and bibs for babies.
Unexpected learnings along the way
The power of word of mouth.
Who would you like to be contacted by?
Urban Outfitters, delia*s, and all of the trendy boutiques in NYC.
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Best way to keep a competitive edge
The best way to stay ahead is through providing a good product without compromising quality, being honest with yourself and your customer and also really listening to your customer. I always welcome comments and suggestions when I meet my customers and also through my website.
Guiding principle in life
I believe if you’re going to do something, do it with passion. Passion is what drives motivation and success.
Yardstick of success
A good reputation.
Goal yet to be achieved
Distribution to stores.
Best practical advice
Always stick to your gut feeling. If you truly believe in something and your gut is telling you that it’s right then most likely it is... always ask questions and always put your heart and soul in everything you do.
Supportive words from a family member or friend on your venture
Keep doing what you’re doing.
Most memorable business experience
Receiving my first international order and inquiries from Australia, Jordan and Canada.
Mentors
My mom and sister who have always been such a wonderful support system and incredible inspirations to me.
What motivates you for success?
My passion for creating a product that creates a connection between my customer and their heritage.
Like best about what you do
Selling at different venues; street festivals, conferences, etc. I like interacting with my customers and really hearing what they have to say; their ideas, suggestions and feedback on the products.
Like least about what you do
Inventory.
At age 10, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I’ve always wanted to be a teacher. I used to hold imaginary classes in my bedroom.
Biggest pastimes outside of work
Coffee with friends, catching up and sharing laughs.
Person most interested in meeting and why?
Queen Noor for being the important figure she is in the Arab world. She is an exemplary role model for women around the world.
Leader in business most interested in meeting and why?
I would like to meet Oprah, she’s an amazing role model for women and she’s a great contributor to the underprivileged. She doesn’t seem to be hung up in the fame and the fortune and remembers to be thankful and to give back.
Three interesting facts about yourself
I can’t ride a bike
I’m horrible with driving directions
I do really good impressions of people
Three characteristics that describe you
Creative, Sincere and Strong.
Three greatest passions
Designing, Meeting People and Photography.
Favorite book
Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
Favorite cause
Children’s Palestinian Relief Fund
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