A Harmonious Tribute: How This Business Owner Honors Victims of Domestic Violence

A heart-wrenching event changed Katrina Lloyd’s world forever. In 2017 she lost her sister Sherrie to domestic violence. While processing the devastating loss and finding a way to heal, Katrina sought a way to celebrate her sister’s life. Thinking back on her most cherished memories with Sherrie, Katrina recalled their shared love of music. “Healing over time, I searched for a way to pay homage to her. We would often sing together at home. Music was a constant in our lives, with our mom playing tunes all the time, and we sang at church,” Katrina said.  She used that inspiration to create Falsetto The Label, a clothing brand that donates 20% of sales to domestic violence charities.

Learn more about Katrina and how she launched her clothing company in her Q&A.

Why did you decide to go all-in on the business?

I knew from the outset that my product would become a business, as I wanted to reach as many women and girls as possible to inspire them to be the best they could be in life. I created the slogan, “Hit your high note,” as a nod to falsetto, which is a music register outside of a singer’s normal range and simply beautiful. Just like falsetto, women and girls can be extraordinary.

How do you define success for your business?

I define success as raising awareness of domestic violence and encouraging women and girls to do things they have never thought of. For me, that’s more important than social media likes. What I’m seeking is invaluable encouragement to women and girls worldwide; something that will last generations. If I can do it, so can you. My wish is for Falsetto The Label to become a household name.

Where do you find inspiration for your work?

I find inspiration from the bond that Sherrie and I had and honoring her memory. It keeps me going every day. I wear a bracelet with her name on it as a reminder of my “why.”

What’s one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you first started your business?

It takes time, and everyone’s path to success looks and is different. You are the author of your business story.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to start selling their art or creative product?

Dig deep and figure out your “why.” If your “why” is deeply rooted, it will carry you through birthing your idea into a reality. Also, be patient. Great things take time.

What’s something our audience would be surprised to learn about you?

I am an avid home design enthusiast! I enjoy home decorating. It’s another way I get to use my creative side. 

As creatives, we can be continuously creating and refining our art. How do you handle perfectionism?

I tell myself, “That’s good enough.” Perfectionism is one of the largest blocks to progress. Something can always be refined more, but over time, I give myself grace, try my best and implement. That’s my simple recipe for handling perfectionism.

What’s something that surprised you about running a creative business?

Time. The time it takes to create the designs, ordering the right clothing materials, building and managing a website and marketing for the modern day world. I also work full time for the federal government, a wife and twin mom. So juggling all of that and running my business leaves me with a pretty full plate. Time management has been so very important to maintain a good balance in managing my business.

What’s your advice for handling the highs and lows of running a business?

Give yourself grace and give it time. Running a business can change from day to day. Stay consistent and you will reach your destination to success.

Has someone ever criticized your work? How did you handle it?

No one has criticized my work. However, if someone did, I would thank them for their feedback and explain that my work is for a positive cause. I would then wish them a wonderful day. It’s always better to take the high road.

What’s a cause you are passionate about?

I am passionate about all domestic violence charities because they support so many people in need in getting out of bad situations and support them after they are free from their abusers. The rehabilitation after being abused is vital for mental health. Here is a great link that includes a search option for your area’s local domestic violence charities.

Can you share the name of a supplier or vendor that you use for your business that you just love—one that makes running your business a bit easier? 

Shopify because it made website building so easy and contains so many app options, order management, marketing tools and the list goes on. It’s been great for me as a small business owner.

What brings you joy?

God first and then my family. God gave me my gift of creativity, and my family has supported me every step of the way. They are why I have joy.

Thanks, Katrina! You can learn more about her business at https://falsettothelabel.com/.

Editor’s Note: This interview has been edited for length and clarity.