The Image Republic is back, and here to stay.

It’s crazy to think that we’ve taken 2 years off from operating as a consultancy. Although the content and engagement ended here in February, we still continued to consult for a couple of small businesses up until the spring/summer of 2018. Still, it feels like forever ago.

Throughout the content, you may notice that The Image Republic has mostly used collective pronouns, i.e. “we” “us”, but the truth is, The Image Republic is a one-woman shop (for now), and has mostly been so since its founding in 2016. What I didn’t realize when starting TIR, was that your business is like your child. It grows when you nourish it, and it suffers when you drag it through your personal journey. In early 2018, I made a gut decision to apply to an MBA program with the goal always being to find new ways to grow The Image Republic.

Instead, what I realized is that I had to grow up too. I had to let go of some mental baggage. I had to grow confident in my ideas and my skills. I had to let go of the fear that often stunted my growth as a business owner. Throughout my time at NYU Stern, I’ve done just that and more. I’ve solidified my purpose and it hasn’t changed since 2016. My only goal is help communities (like the one that raised me) thrive economically. The Image Republic’s mission has always been centered around the empowerment of others, especially those often overlooked, marginalized and underserved. That hasn’t changed, and it will not change.

I’ve been able to crystallize my vision for The Image Republic, who we serve, and the values on which we stand firmly. Through the lens of human centricity, wellness, and cooperative economics, TIR will serve small business owners in the industries of health, beauty, personal care, and food + beverage. 

Our content will serve the same purpose - to support and educate small business owners having trouble with their marketing. You may notice a completely different brand tone and personality - all meant to reflect the idea of community and empowerment. I’m excited for what’s to come, but I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t nervous. I’m relearning every inch of this while forcing myself to let the content go without “the brand” and everything that it entails being perfect. Perfection is the enemy.

Thank you for your support and encouragement! Here’s to empowered small businesses and liberated communities.