Reginald Ferguson [00:00:01]: Hello. I'm Red. Tiff [00:00:02]: And I'm Tiff. And we're the fashion geeks. Reginald Ferguson [00:00:04]: Trying to make New York. Tiff [00:00:06]: And the world. Reginald Ferguson [00:00:06]: Well, New York is the world. Tiff [00:00:07]: A little flyer, one outfit Reginald Ferguson [00:00:09]: And And podcast. Yes. Here we are still in quarantine. Still at the home studio. I hope I sound a little bit better. The producers said I did, But, I'm just happy that we have someone to interview. So So we have on the other line, we've been trying to do this for a long time, even as recently as 72 hours ago. We got Frank Newt, but not in the building. Reginald Ferguson [00:00:48]: We got Frank Newt in the park. Yes. Frank Newt. Man, your style. Frank [00:00:54]: Hi. Reginald Ferguson [00:00:55]: How are you, Frank? Frank [00:00:57]: Good. Good. How are you? Reginald Ferguson [00:00:59]: I'm, I'm hanging in based on the circumstances. So yeah. Happy, happy to be here. Not feeling too cooped up. Here we are. We're day 4 of phase 2. And then we Very exciting. Yeah. Reginald Ferguson [00:01:14]: Yeah. It's it's interesting. And we see Frank [00:01:16]: some faces. Reginald Ferguson [00:01:17]: Yeah. It's, yeah. Yes. We all undergo through phases. So, yeah, I mean, it really is interesting, and I know you and I had a actually a nice talk that hopefully, some of it will reprise here. I mean, let's just get right to it. I mean, how are you feeling about phase 2? What are you doing? Let's let's do it. Frank [00:01:40]: Yeah. So I mean, for for me for phase 2, work is still Kind of out of the picture. I mean, as of right now, I've built a job, in August, so there's hope, of some return of work, for me, in August. But, for the most part, I have, I've heard most of my business, like I mentioned, to, mask making and, which has been an interesting sort of creative process. And, like, I did not know how to use my sewing machine prior to, prior to March. And, I had my machine for about 2 years and I did a, less than about a year and a half ago and got busy and never went back to it. And then -I did a crash course on Zoom for about an hour with a friend and hit the ground running, and, that has really turned into, -Uh, a thing, for me, in terms of, my time and sort of keeping me busy. And, I mean, just even yesterday as of right now, I've been asked to create a collection of kid masks -For a local boutique in East Village. Frank [00:02:54]: -Wow. -So, it's, it's really turning into a thing that I didn't Really imagine I started out just making a few masks for a couple of friends and that was kind of it and then it just kind of then those friends had friends who saw their masks and were like, Where did you get that mask? I want one. And, you know, it's really been a lot of, like, word-of-mouth, and it's turned into, quite a production. So that's, That's really the main check of my day is is really, that. And, I have another project, For mask making as well where someone asked me that, commissioned me to, make them, about 10 or 15 masks With a very specific, fabric. So I'm also working on sort of that project. And, besides that, I'm starting, -Lisa's prep, for, for school and, starting to wrap my brain around that and narrowing down my topic. -And, actually, we just had a touch base, yesterday, and I was kind of, sad to hear that, unfortunately, we will not be returning to campus, -Uh, for the fall, the entire campus is gonna remain shuttered. Frank [00:04:15]: And, we return to Zoom. So, That was, that was a little sad to hear, but, I get it. And, you know, it's all for our best interest. And, -Yeah, so it's just kinda rolling with the punches and trying to adapt to the very changing world, And, making the best of it. Reginald Ferguson [00:04:41]: Sure. I actually kinda wanna start from the beginning Because we talked about this major transition, but let's really describe who you are and what you do. I mean, you're what we call, you know, a multi hyphenate. Frank [00:04:57]: So, you Reginald Ferguson [00:04:57]: know, you do visual merchandising, you're a prop stylist, you do wardrobe, overall styling, costume set design, event production. So let's talk a little bit about that because to me that'll make it even more dramatic and interesting how all of a sudden you're like, I got this machine. I gotta do something. Let me let me make this mask. Frank [00:05:19]: Yes. So so yeah. So it's It's always, it's always a challenge when I meet someone, and they're like, so what do you do? And it's like, woah. You know, and For me, it really, really depends on the day, and that's why I've kind of, sort of labeled myself, and I'm set up as a sole proprietorship at the state of New York. So I'm registered and I also, have my business certified, through the, National Chamber of Commerce, LGBT, Chamber of Commerce nationally and locally locally in New York. So I'm a part of that Network as well. And, yeah. So my, business is labeled as a fashion and event production company and, Into further details on exactly that. Frank [00:06:07]: So, I do interior styling. I do, Fashion styling as well. I've done, some personal styling too. That's, I would say probably the the main, percentage of my, sort of business is is -Set styling and, and events. I work a lot, with, A home showroom, called Interiors, that I get to travel a lot, and set up shows for various, markets that are happening around the country. And I also, have worked a lot with Bergdorf Goodman, as well. Doing interior styling, home. Mainly working in the home department. Frank [00:06:56]: And, as far as events, I do I've done Set design, I produce events, I've done event management. Most, one of my longest running, Sort of Gigs was working behind the scenes of New York Fashion Week for 10 years over the course of 20 seasons. And, sort of starting out As a, volunteer when volunteers are still a thing, many moons ago, and, sort of worked my way up from that to Production assistant to, backstage manager. And then, my last position doing that was, I was running the backstage, and doing backstage management for about 5 years and running the largest venue. So overseeing about, 23 to 25 shows over the course of 9 days and, working a lot of hours and sleeping very little During that time, so and my visual merchandising background spans about 16 years, starting out in Chicago. And, visual visual merchandising was really something that I always knew that, was sort of what I wanted to do. I did a lot of things in College, a lot of internships and things like that. And, just hit the ground running from college on and, Jumped into events shortly after that. Frank [00:08:26]: And, events really you know, it really was just Fashion Week for a long time, because that was, just sort of a side thing that I enjoyed doing, that's turned into a career that I really didn't Expect. So, so yeah. So my event production side is, a little over 10 years of That's sort of that experience. And, yeah. So, that's kind of, So I have, and I freelance full time. So I work for myself, and that will be, 3 years, in August of doing that. -And, previously I worked, mainly, my, focus has been in luxury retail. I worked for Saks, full time before going on my own. Frank [00:09:17]: And before that I worked for Neiman Marcus for about, three and a half years. And, And so but, getting the opportunity to work on my own, I really have been able to, broadened my, sort of range and, I have gotten to work with a vast, amount of, Clients, not just focused in luxury, but, many categories and, Which has been really exciting and I really enjoy having that sort of freedom to, jump around and do a lot of different things because I have that freedom to, to do that as a freelancer. And, so, some of my, I guess, most regular clients, you know, again, I work a lot for Bergdorf. I also work for, Nike and, you know, and I sort of have, quite a few corporate clients, but I also do, work with a lot of, several, small mom and pop boutiques, In New York area, I have a few, shops that I work with in large launch that I do window displays for and merchandising. And I have a wonderful boutique that I get to, work with in, Mount Kisco, New York. And that, Those are a lot of fun because, I get, it's much more, full on creativity, which is what I really enjoy. Just really being able to create and, and sort of make, so that visual magic, if you will. And, so before going into quarantine, I, some of the Jobs I was doing, I worked, sort of around fashion week a little bit, back in February. Frank [00:11:07]: And, I got to travel to Vegas In January to, do a home, showroom, reset with our terriers. And then, my last job before going into lockdown was, -Was doing a hallway installation at, Berndorf Goodman, and, that was interesting because we did this -Really amazing set design and home styling and, just probably one of the best hallways, In a long time, and no one no one got to see it. So, so it's kind of, You know, I mean, setting it up was really interesting because, you know, it was kind of, leading into going into lockdown and, You know, we're just kind of, like, going in there each day, kind of doing this setup and, you know, absolutely no one Shopping, and no one around on the floor. We're kind of like, this is kind of weird. Don't know what's happening. And, and then getting the word that -We, as all all vendors, we're no longer allowed to be on-site. And then the very next day, the entire building shut down and all employees were sent away. So, so it was really sad and and kind of poetic that we have this beautiful hallway that's just -Sitting there, unseen by anyone. Frank [00:12:29]: And, and then So going into quarantine, so I, I'm a very creative person. I don't like being home. I'm always out and about. I always like to be out doing something or, I don't even I don't own a TV. And and so, you know, I'm just, I like to be out. I like to do stuff and Travel. I love to travel. And, and so, so yeah. Frank [00:12:58]: So I don't do well, self contained. So -Going into quarantine, I mean, I had, school, through mid May. So that really, that really helps Me, sort of, balance out my time because I not having Not having work to do, I really was able to focus more on that, which was really great, and really give that more attention. And so again, To explain, I am back in school for my master's in costume studies at NYU. And so that's What I'm working, on as well in addition to, my small business. So I really, Really transitioned my time to really focusing on my studies a lot more and got through that. And then sort of in that process, is when, I made a few masts for, a few friends and I actually hand hand sewed the first few moused because, I sort of had this fear of my sewing machine. And, you know, it was just kind of like this Machine that sat there and just, like, afraid to touch it. Frank [00:14:12]: And, and then yeah. And then I just started getting people who were, like, -Reaching out to me, you know, like, This mask is great. I really want mine. And then it took, A friend of mine in Chicago who is working on the front line, was like, can I get 20? Reginald Ferguson [00:14:31]: And then Frank [00:14:32]: I was like, Oh. And then and then that's and then that's when I really was like, okay, so I need to face this fear and, -Make friends with the sewing machine because Reginald Ferguson [00:14:43]: -Right. Frank [00:14:44]: -Sewing 20 masks by hand is not gonna work. So, but yeah, so I Jumped on a Zoom call with a friend and did a crash course for about an hour. And, you know, the beginning was some trial and error, for sure. And, but, I have to say I, really have gotten into a groove with it and Has really turned into, pretty much a almost a full time job at this point, with, sort of the orders that are Coming in and sort of the requests that I got I've gotten, recently. And, and so, so yes, it's really interesting how I've sort of, -You know, even in quarantine, sort of, finding a voice in all of this and finding a way to be creative and, And sort of use that energy and, and you know, sort of contribute to the, -You know, the quote war efforts, if you will. And, so I have gotten to, make masks for essential workers, -Which is really, really great. And, my, sort of my focus with it, it's not, it's not about -Making money, I literally charge, $10 a mask, and it's really just to cover shipping expenses and a smidge of fabric costs. -Um, so that's really, my focus has really been just, like, making mouths, for people, so that they have them, and, and it's all been sorted by donation, as well. Frank [00:16:23]: And, you know, if, you know, again, my sort of efforts are, You know, it's not it's not about making money for me. It's just, a creative thing for me to do and to sort of support What's happening, and, why not do it in style and have a nice, fashionable, -Fun Reginald Ferguson [00:16:43]: fabric. -Right. Absolutely. Frank [00:16:46]: So, yeah. So it's been a really great, sort of way to channel my energy with with that. And, -And pop. -Uh, and it's it's really I mean, if you had told me back in January that this is where my My life and my sort of focus would be I, yeah. I would have not, I would have not believed you at all. I mean, I literally started the year by jumping into the ocean, -Uh, at Coney Island and, with several friends doing the, polar bear, plunge and -Oh, yeah. Sure. And being all like, yes, 2020, a new decade. Frank [00:17:25]: Woo. It's gonna be great. And then we're like, hashtag end scene. 2020, not so much. But, but I have to say, you know, I have stayed -Very positive, a big part of, for me big part of getting through this, time and sort of keeping a positive outlook -Has been through fashion and using my voice, in that manner as well. And, you know, sort of, Kind of in an opulent way, but, getting dressed up and, from the very beginning of this quarantine and, If I was going to the grocery store, I was getting dressed up and, putting on putting on, you know, my My finest, fashions and, going to the grocery store or getting out for some air and, -And just, you know, and as a result of that, you know, what I wasn't expecting and not putting any expectations in that, really just Doing it because it made me happy and, it kept my mind sort of off of things. And, what I didn't expect to happen was, People, sort of the reaction from people and just, like, the very positiveness of that and people being like, Oh, yeah. I can put on some fancy pants or some fancy shoes and go out and about because why not? And, so that's, you know, that's been interesting. Frank [00:19:00]: And also, getting photographed. I've gotten photographed quite a few times, just being out, whether it's because of, mask I was wearing or what I was wearing in general, which is, you know, those are things that I I really didn't think about, doing that, you know, because you're just, fashion makes me happy. And, -Um, for me it's, it's another way of channeling my, my energy, and, so that's been interesting, and, and through that, as well turned into, an article that I mentioned, to you, that I worked on, through, May, and it's gonna be, it's a special, queer, publication that's gonna be published by Intellect, Books, -Hopefully by the end of July. But, still TBD as far as when that's gonna get published. But essentially, it was, -Sort of looking at fashion in the quarantine from, from a queer lens, and I got to collaborate with 2 others, 2, historians, and, who did the interview. And, and so, so that's coming out, As well. Hopefully sometime by the end of the summer. So that was another, sort of project that I that's a sort of work on and, which has been great. Frank [00:20:27]: I really have been really staying busy, which I, I really like. I like to stay busy and I like To sort of have things to do. So, I have Yeah. So I have done, sort of found that, It's been really interesting to, during this time to, to just see how how, like, days just like fly Fly by, and it kinda blows my mind of, like, how busy some days can be. And it's like I'm not even, -You know, quote, working -Right. -Per se. And, but, yes. So I have I really have just been really focusing on just making the best of it and really, trying to keep a positive mindset through it all and, not trying to, Think too much into it. Frank [00:21:26]: I definitely avoid the news. I limit that sort of intake of news because, -Um, you know, as you know, there's, there's a lot happening. There's a lot happening. There's a lot of things. And, and so, I do try to limit sort of my intake on that because that can be, That can really change one's mindset very fast. So, you know, I try to keep abreast of sort of, What's happening, but, at the same time, I prefer to, not spend too much time on news channels. So, yeah. So for me, it's really been about, yes, we're, we are in, you know, a pandemic. Frank [00:22:14]: -Uh, but, it's, for me, I'm not, I'm not gonna stop living my life. Like, I'm gonna, I'm going to -Take the precautions, of course, and do the proper things and, you know, and keep myself safe and healthy. But at the same time, I'm not gonna live in this, like, fear and and stop living and suffering things, because of it. So I'm really curious to see how things sort of shake out, you know, once things kind of settle down. I think it's gonna be really -Interesting time across the board, in fashion and, and, as well as many categories. So, So, yeah. So that's that's kind of, sort of where I've been and sort of what I'm working on. So, -Right now, you know, like you mentioned, I've sort of been commissioned to, sort of make some kid kid mouths, which I hadn't really been doing. Frank [00:23:12]: But, you know, it's just a different size of fabric. So it's Reginald Ferguson [00:23:17]: like, Frank [00:23:18]: all right. Let's, yeah, I can, I can, sort of figure that out? And that's kind of sort of my, my thing is just, like, -Figuring it out, and, you know, just being flexible and making things work. So, There's that and, another sort of fun project that's really kind of taking off as well is, a good friend of mine started, A little small bedazzled business called He Dazzle. And, so we recently decided to collaborate and I make the mask And he bedazzles the mask. And so, we started that in the last week, week and a half, and we've already gotten about 10 orders, From Cats. So, yeah. So, you know, it's fun, in that regard as well. Just like finding other creatives To, sort of work with, and find ways to collaborate. Frank [00:24:20]: So that's funny. Yeah. Reginald Ferguson [00:24:23]: It's funny, like, when you're talking about the mask, so it clearly just started in my mind as a labor of love for you, and like you said, then it's Extended in different ways that you didn't expect. You're going from adult sizes to kid sizes. I've seen your stuff obviously on your Insta and on your website specifically. So, you know, nice fabrics. Now some of these fabrics are being bedazzled. So I know for myself in my in my newsletter to my clients and friends. I immediately called that masks would be a fashion accessory, Unquestionably. So how do you envision this moving forward? For example, You're doing it for different people. Reginald Ferguson [00:25:09]: We know you're doing the front line, but I'm also assuming you're doing it for Certain brands or certain fashion houses, like, how do you how do you envision it moving forward as an accessory? -Because like you said, you want to be stylish, and and all your patterns are very distinct. Frank [00:25:28]: -Mm well, I I -I definitely feel that masks are the hottest accessory trend of 2020. -Yep. -Uh, it's really fascinating how that's Kind of turned into a thing. And and really, you know, they are and can be used as a way to highlight your personality, because there's so many ways to do that, there's so many fabric options. And and if you can't find the perfect fabric, you can turn photos into fabric -And make your own. So, you know, there's so many ways to sort of make that work. And, -You know, and I mean, honestly, you know, it is really looking like masks are not going away anytime soon. -Right. Frank [00:26:13]: -They are literally going to be here for a while. -And, you know, and sort of my thought process is just like, if I'm gonna have to wear a mask, why not make it fun? And, You know, make it work with your outfit or or make it clash with your outfit in a fun, funky way. You know, if that's your thing. I know For me, I probably in my personal collection, I probably have about, 20 What? Mouse? Yes. Yes. Yes. Reginald Ferguson [00:26:46]: Okay. So you have a 4 week you have a 4, a 4 business week rotation, 4 week business week rotate. Frank [00:26:52]: Yes. Yeah. I, you know, I've made, you know, it sort of kinda it's sort of dangerous in a way being able to make your own mouse. Reginald Ferguson [00:27:01]: Sure. Frank [00:27:01]: Because I have I have, of course, made, some for myself, you know, more so in a marketing way, of wearing them Out and, you know, sort of striking up the, possibility of someone being like, Hey, where did you get your mouse? And it's like, Wow, actually, I made it. So, you know, it's sort of for that purpose, but I've also supported, small businesses and other queer businesses, as well. And, you know, which I I find very important, especially during this time, supporting Small businesses in any way that you can if you, have the means to be able to do it, even if it's little Small purchases, I find that very important in this day and age, to, to do that. And so, -Yeah. So I have a mix of masks, of men as well as, all from small businesses. I, sort of refuse to Buy any masks from, any, like real corporate, sort of stores because, Yeah. I, just prefer to support a small business guide and gals for now. Reginald Ferguson [00:28:18]: Right. Now it's funny you say that. When phase 4 enters, you'll literally be able to go back I'm talking to, like, a Bergdahl's or, you know, whomever and trying to put big box, you know, you know, a mainstay client. So Do you plan to let them know about this side hustle? Because, you know, that could be another another revenue connection for you. Frank [00:28:44]: Yes, this is true. Yeah. I, I definitely It's definitely one of those things where, -And and showing clients that I work with. I, it's definitely a way that I can be like, Hey, -You know, do your teams need masks? And, yeah, it definitely can be, a conversation. And I think more so with, I feel, kind of like a Bergdorf might be a little bit sort of harder to, -But, I mean, it could definitely could be an internal thing where, getting the opportunity to May make masks, for team, especially, with stores, and living on the lower side. Like, there's a lot of, Shops and things of that nature, so I I definitely feel there's there's opportunity to sort of go in, and, Explore, because teams are gonna need mouse and Right. And so, So, yeah. So figuring out ways to do, like, custom, you know, because then, a lot of places will want, sort of logos and things of that nature. Frank [00:29:58]: So -It'll be a little bit of logistics, considering that out, but it's completely doable. So, yeah. So I feel that, -There's a lot of there's a lot of avenues to sort of explore, with it and, expanding it. And it's really It's really mind blowing of, you know, sort of how this is what this is trying to get to, that I really didn't did not expect, you know, thinking that I'm just gonna make a few masks for a few friends. And here I am with, like, 3 different collaborations happening right now and Order's literally coming in to serve every day. Wow. So, yeah. I'm very curious to see Sort of where it goes and where it leads to. Frank [00:30:44]: Because I definitely feel that, It's it's not going away anytime soon. And, you know, you can you can complain about it, Or you can have some fun with it and have a fun dance. Reginald Ferguson [00:31:00]: Right. So from an output standpoint, You're a you're a 1 man wrecking crew right now. So Yes. In terms of the orders and in terms of us, you know, Having our fingers crossed about what's gonna happen from a productivity standpoint, do you sense that, like, for example, -You're handling now, do you think you'll constantly be able to just be this 1 person show for the mass? Frank [00:31:26]: -I would, I mean, I I would definitely love to sort of add on in the system, if possible, because it would be, because it's, it's quite a process of, sort of, -Cutting cutting all the patterns and, doing that and, like, sizing everything and adding any Custom. You know, it is very, time consuming time consuming. And that's kind of how, sort of to give you an idea of How sort of I operate now, it's like, usually, I will spend an entire day just cutting patterns, and just create stacks of, fabrics, that are ready to go because and then spending a day -Sewing everything. And, because it's also, it's like cutting the elastic or cutting ties as well. So, you know, it's -Although it's a relatively simple pattern to sew, there's several moving parts in it that are very time consuming, With, with it. And so, so yeah. So definitely, it takes me, it takes me, you know, some time to sort of turn around, larger larger, orders. And so I do feel that, if things continue to sort of expand, and continue to sort of move, forward. Frank [00:32:56]: I would definitely love to explore Adding an assistant, just, you know, having someone, to, even just, like, cut fabrics while you sew or, some you know, along those lines would definitely be, great and something that I I do hope that I can explore. Reginald Ferguson [00:33:17]: And in terms of fabric, is this all fabric that you just happen to have in the house, Frank? Like, what's Frank [00:33:24]: so, so Sewing has been, something that I've I've wanted to sort of take on for quite some time. But, you know, as we know, Life gets busy, and, and so I, I guess I've I've had my sewing machine probably I guess, Been about 2 years. And it was, like, one of those things, like, I'm gonna buy the sewing machine, and I'm gonna have a lot of fun with this, and I'm gonna make stuff. And when I had my website redone About a year and a half ago, I had the graphic designer create a shop page for me, like, thinking that, you know, I'm gonna I'm gonna turn stuff out and it's gonna be great. And then life got busy and they're going back to it. And so I've had the shop page on, sort of, you know, in the On the side just kind of waiting, and, you know, and I have this banner on my website, like, shop page coming soon. And that's for a very long time, which I I completely forgot about it. And then, it was actually, 2 days ago, I was like, oh, yeah. Frank [00:34:27]: I think I need to, Edit that and so I I finally was able to change this banner on my website that's no longer coming soon, that, you can actually shop now on my website. And so that was That was tremendous, I have to say. And sort of streamlining, streamlining, lining things, up, getting that onto my website because I was getting orders from all sorts of avenues from Facebook Messenger, Instagram, -Uh, Messenger, text messaging. And so that was very difficult to manage. And sort of, like, Trying to keep everything together was was very challenging. And that too, you know, again, would be something really great. Having an assistant sort of organize that sort of piece of it too and keeping that organized. And so And I moved everything online, I guess about 2 weeks ago, is when I finally made the switch. Frank [00:35:25]: So That has helped tremendously. Because now it's like I have everything into my inbox, and it's all in one place, which is Which is amazing. And, and so, yeah. So I, you know, again, so I got this machine and thinking that I was gonna, like, jump into this, I did a I did a sewing lesson and then, yeah, just never, went back to it. And so, so, yeah. So it's just, it's yeah. It's been an interesting process, and I'm and I'm glad and That, I finally sort of face out there. And, and now, you know, I've I've made, I've made a couple of tote bags as well, some kind of, like, exploring other things other than, mask making. Frank [00:36:15]: And then in terms of fabric, so when I bought this sewing machine 2 years ago, I, like, went went in and, like, I bought many yards of fabric from, a lot from Joann Fabrics, but some locally as well. Reginald Ferguson [00:36:28]: Oh, yeah. Yeah. Yeah. I know that spark. Frank [00:36:31]: Yep. And, and so I was sitting on, quite a few, fabric choices, going into this that I just have never used, and I have this really great sort of sequined fabric that was like a comic sort of, looking fabric. And, and and so, yeah. So, several of my mask options right now, are of these fabrics that I have been sitting on for quite some time that I just never used. So it's been great to really put those to use. And I'm happy to say that some of those fabrics are now retiring, because I have used them. So that's really, that's really cool to see. And Reginald Ferguson [00:37:14]: You got capsule collections. Frank [00:37:16]: Yep. Yeah. And, and because I got these fabrics so long ago, like, likely these fabrics, will not be able to, be replenished. So that's kind of a cool thing that with some of these, masks that are being made, it's truly a limited number and that's probably Going to be it. And, and then additionally, I have stopped, you know, because I have -Been making more masks. I have stocked, more fabric options because, variety is the -Spice of life and, people want options. So, majority of my fabric, I have purchased from small shops on Etsy. Reginald Ferguson [00:37:59]: That makes sense. Frank [00:38:00]: Mhmm. So that's been, majority. Now that things are, Opening a bit more, I hope to maybe get some fabrics locally here in New York City. There was 1 shop, near me on the lower east side that was open, because she was designated, a supplier for mask making. And so her fabric store was allowed to be open, and it was and there's quite a few fabrics that was actually around me on the Lower East Side, -But she was the only one that was open. And, so I have gotten, you know, again, supporting those local businesses. I was able to do that. And, Yeah. Frank [00:38:41]: So many Now what from that city. Reginald Ferguson [00:38:43]: What materials are they? Are they all cotton or I can't recall you. Frank [00:38:48]: Are, majority of them are cotton. I do have some, sequin fabrics, as well and some, like, mermaid sequin, which are a little fun. And, and I have, like, a denim option, But, those are those are not, and I have couple spandex, options as well. So Reginald Ferguson [00:39:14]: And pop wine. Frank [00:39:15]: That I always, sort of, when when ordering masks, I was, very upfront about sort of the materials. And, But majority majority of them are cotton. I have about about 45 fabrics now, to sort of choose from. Majority are cotton, though, which is the it's most ideal, especially for, right now and into summer. Whereas the Sequin ones. Yes, they are very fun and fabulous, but, those are not quite as breathable. Everything, that I have always has a cotton, back, to it, so even if it's -Uh, a sequin, fabric. It will always have a cotton, back to it, which is, you know, again, that's really great, sitting on the face, but, yes. Frank [00:40:06]: Mermaid mermaid, fabric options are not quite as breathable. Reginald Ferguson [00:40:12]: Okay. Frank [00:40:13]: So more more more ideal for the fall and winter. Reginald Ferguson [00:40:16]: Right. Yeah. I was gonna say, you know, that's for your fall winter line. Frank [00:40:19]: Exactly. So things to move into. Reginald Ferguson [00:40:24]: So How is it as a business prior to the pandemic, you know, prior to you making masks? You know, I know you have these certifications, and you know for you it's probably a rhetorical question but I would just like to understand better so you know first when I just saw the acronym itself I was like I don't know how these guys pronounce this. I'm just okay. So, you know, NGLCCNY, which obviously is the national LGBT Chamber of Commerce. Frank [00:40:54]: Yeah. Reginald Ferguson [00:40:55]: So, you know, my point is, I understand the need to have these organizations as African American, clearly. But what I just want to understand is, How have these organizations helped you in your business? And, you know, why do you feel important to have that, you know, that stamp, And pop on your website, so to speak. Frank [00:41:16]: Well, I find it to be a great resource, as a small business that is, Associated with them, I'm listed on, their websites and, and searchable, Through that, and they have really great networking opportunities, and you know, not just networking opportunities, but, -They give you, ways to sort of pitch your business and which allows you to be in front of, other, sometimes larger companies that otherwise you may not, exactly have -The opportunity to sort of get to do, -The entree. -On your own. And, and so that's that's really neat, -Uh, sort of having that, sort of ability, you know, whereas, like, yes, you may be able to, -Uh, explore, like, trying to get those sort of opportunities on your own, but likely could, take you a bit longer maybe, -Uh, or not even. And so that's really great. And, you know, and they do, -I mean, more I mean, everything's virtual now, but, they do quite a quite a bit of events, just sort of, And pop. Connecting connecting you to sort of other businesses that complement you, as well as, Sort of figuring out ways to, bring businesses together that, can utilize my services or I can utilize their services. And, so they do a really good job of sort of, keeping keeping people, and businesses Sort of, connected and, you know, and they're really great, to, it's a really great way to, get connected. And, you know, if you, if they're, they have their businesses, that they partner with Sort of listed on the website. Frank [00:43:18]: And, there are individuals within sort of the organization that can make connections for you. Like, or introductions. And, which could lead to something or, you know, may not lead to anything. But, In the beginning, but, they really do, a great job of sort of laying the groundwork for you to, explore. And, And being a new business, I find that I have found it to be, sort of a great resource. And, -I have made some great connections. I can't say that I've I really have gotten sort of any work, per se through it quite yet, but, I have made some really great, sort of connections. And, It's, also allowed me to, really fine tune and, think about sort of like the The services that I, sort of provide and, I hopefully will soon be participating in, an event where, I get to pitch sort of my business which is, it's really a great opportunity to, sort of get your feet wet with, learning how to, really get your business even more out there and, which then, -You know, during this sort of event, in return you get a lot of feedback on sort of, sort of what to work on, and, and how to better, present yourself so that you can ultimately, be even more successful in your adventures. Frank [00:45:01]: So Reginald Ferguson [00:45:02]: Right. So, really, it's a platform of access and opportunity. Frank [00:45:06]: Yes. For sure. Reginald Ferguson [00:45:07]: Which is, yeah, which is important. That's a wonderful segue because I'd like to get your thoughts on 2 things that I think are related. How do you feel I remember last year, Tiff and I, We did and maybe you remember this. We did a episode about pride week Frank [00:45:26]: Mhmm. Reginald Ferguson [00:45:26]: In fashion. So, you know, you you represent that, So who better to ask? How do you feel like, for example, on my Instagram feed, I follow Converse. And Converse, you know, Like it or lump it, you know, to their credit, what have you. You know, just seeing everything in terms of special kicks that they have, special colorways for pride. My point is, you know, from an African American man to a gay man, how do you feel about fashion brands and pride. I know it's a very general question, but how do you feel about it? Do you, you know, do you feel Kinda like what's happening now with Black Lives Matter, that people are just jumping on. Do you do you really feel it's a legitimate, You know, outreach, you know, through marketing, through their brands. So I'm giving you wide, you know, wide birth here. Frank [00:46:23]: So I have to say, I have to say with last year's Pride, especially with it being the 50th anniversary of, -Stonewall. -Stonewall. -Um, everyone. It felt it felt like everyone was jumping on the bandwagon just because Of, of that. And it was really hard to tell who was genuinely genuinely, interested in, -Supporting it and and who is just, like, just jumping on the bandwagon, just putting out pride, rainbows in their window because while everyone else is doing it. Because they really felt like that, especially in New York. Like, it just felt like, it just felt like Pride on Speed last year because it's just like everywhere you looked, their food just, you know, everything was covered in rainbows. And it's like, really? Because I've never seen you post Windows with or have rainbow decals in your window before. Frank [00:47:25]: So, it has been interesting. I think, you know, Converse, that, sort of that approach, I think, has been neat because it Yeah. I it's a really, it's a really great way to, and they allow you to customize and do, you know, really make your own, which I think is a great way of self expression, especially in this time and day right now, especially with, you know, the Black Lives Matter, sort of, events happening. It's, I think even more so now. I think -Having that freedom to sort of, create your own thing. And right now, you know, and just really, you know, finding your, You know, not everyone is able to protest. So, you know, I think having having something that having Having something like Converse where you can, customize your your your shoes and and really make, really make it your own, expression of yourself, I think is really great that they sort of offer that. But I do, I definitely feel that there are, I don't feel that everyone that is on this pride bandwagon, is Completely legit in their, sort of marketing, if you will. Frank [00:48:52]: So I I do say that you, You do have to be, you know, sort of cautious and sort of, like, do your research on on what you're seeing and and, And, you know, especially as we have seen, you know, recently with, you know, many, I so I I think right now with everything that's happening with the Black Lives Matter movement, -You're really seeing, a lot of brands' true colors, if you will. And you're really finding out who who really supports and who's just Adjusting policies because, you know, they feel it's they have to, not because They won 2 or they really are are genuinely interested in, and the movements that are happening. So you know and I think going through this like quarantine and lockdown the really neat thing is that we all get a way to Choose how we want to, live going forward and we get to choose, you know, because we have experienced this thing where, like, the entire world has shuddered. And so now is The opportunity to decide how you wanna proceed and how you want to Support businesses going forward. And so I think it's crucial to do your research On, on brands and and companies. And and really find out, sort of their, if they are genuine in in what they're saying and and doing and promoting. Because they don't feel that, everything that you see Is exactly what it is. I I definitely feel there are a lot out there that are truly supporting, you know, the movements that are happening right now. Frank [00:50:54]: But not all. So I would just say do your research and, and -Kind of go from there and make make your make your thoughts, sort of around that and sort of what you find. But I definitely I and I think it's great that, you're really seeing companies true colors, even more so right now, and and really what they stand for, which is great. And then you really you get to make the decision on How you choose to support or not support Reginald Ferguson [00:51:28]: them. Right. No, I totally agree. I mean, I feel for myself, I can't speak for you, but You know, to me, supporting black business is supporting my business. Frank [00:51:40]: Yes. So, Reginald Ferguson [00:51:44]: So, you know. Frank [00:51:46]: And that's, that's exactly where I'm at as well. Like, and, and sharing the information, which is something that I do and I find That important, like, I may not have the means, to purchase something, but, I think there's power in sharing that information. And and and that's really something that I've been using my platform on Instagram to do is is, sharing, you know, when people have really made some great posts about, black owned businesses and, you know, across, you know, every category. And so whenever I see those things and I search for those things as well, I always make it a point to, Try to share that information because I do feel it's even more important right now. Specifically not just supporting small, owned businesses, but, supporting the, Black owned businesses. And just, and -Shopping, you know, if you can. And if you can't, share the information. That is that is crucial as well. Frank [00:52:46]: And getting those Getting those names of businesses out there, and just making making it known, For for your followers and and and for your audience, and and really trying to support, that is very important. Reginald Ferguson [00:53:04]: Yeah. No. I I I totally agree. I know, you know, and since From, you know, always watching on Insta. And like you said, you you are out there, Frank. Yeah. You know, you you are living your life. Man, I'm watching your Insta, and I'm in my 4 walls, and you are you are out there with your mask making it happen. Frank [00:53:27]: Yes. Reginald Ferguson [00:53:28]: But my my point is is I bust on you. You know, ultimately, what we're settling right now is the political. And I know you are very much so. And I saw one of your posts, and your post was about, You know, the protests this weekend. Mhmm. And, you know, I just again, I'm gonna give you wide birth again. Just wanna, you know, Just wanna know what, you know, what you're about about that. Clearly, you're speaking truth to power, but I'm just, you know, I'm just really curious. Reginald Ferguson [00:54:00]: It was really cool to see And, speak on it if you will. Frank [00:54:05]: Yes. So yeah. So this weekend, there are, I mean, there's For the most part, I mean, there's there's marches happening every day, but Tuesday I'm particularly, very excited about, participating And, Friday night the, drag march will be happening, starting from Tomskin Tompkins Square Park, and marching towards, Stonewall. And so, of course, the theme of that is getting dressed up in drag, which is What I plan to do, more to be revealed on that. Reginald Ferguson [00:54:42]: I'll be waiting. Frank [00:54:42]: Tomorrow evening. But of course, all are welcome, to join. You don't necessarily need to be, in Dragon. I know they're gonna be doing, Virtual things as well. So there are, different ways that you can participate, if you don't feel quite comfortable, being in person, or if you don't live in the city, but I am very excited to, participate in that. And then on Sunday, The Queer Liberation March, which will be focused on, Black lives. Reginald Ferguson [00:55:20]: Black trans lives. Frank [00:55:21]: Yes. And police, brutality. And, so, yeah. So that's happening on Sunday, starting in, Foley Square at 1 PM. And of course, you know, there's no Pride parade this year, so, the Queer Liberation March. And the whole purpose of the Queer Liberation March was Sort of designed to be the opposite of what the Pride parade is. And, you know, because, you know, again, you know, like what we discussed, The pride parade is very commercial. And, the queer liberation march is the exact opposite of that. Frank [00:55:58]: It's it's not about Commercial. It's not about any of that. It's about the true roots of the the Stonewall riots that happened, over 50 years ago. And, and that's what it's about, returning to those roots of, of pure protest in March. And, so yeah, so I will be participating, in that as well and I'm sure wearing something very festive, for Sunday as well. So again, stay tuned on that. You know, because again, fashion, for me is a way to, to use my voice, in those in those ways as well. Reginald Ferguson [00:56:35]: Absolutely. Absolutely. Fashion fashion is political. Frank [00:56:39]: Yes. And, you know, and I I, -Um, you know, recently, you know, which I thought was really great, there was the, in Harlem, And it was actually, photographed, by Vogue and ended up with Vogue and then another Yeah. We gotta Reginald Ferguson [00:56:56]: talk about that. I'm trying to get I'm trying to get that brother on. Frank [00:56:59]: Yeah. Reginald Ferguson [00:57:00]: So, actually, based on that, I'm gonna have to do that today. Frank [00:57:04]: So Yes. Reginald Ferguson [00:57:05]: And maybe you have a connection too. But, yeah, I totally -I totally want to have, 1 of those brothers, on. Man, Frank, we got we got so much to talk about, but we got to wrap it up. Frank [00:57:19]: Yes. Yes. Yeah. But I I definitely think that he would that would be a great conversation to have. I loved that, like, seeing those those guys and Getting dressed up, so Reginald Ferguson [00:57:30]: Yeah. I as well. Frank Nub, man your style. We've been trying to do this for a long time. I really appreciate the time. Frank [00:57:40]: Yes. Same. I'm glad that we were able to finally connect and and do this, so Reginald Ferguson [00:57:46]: Absolutely. I'll see you on the other side, Graham. Frank [00:57:49]: See you on the other side. Chat with you too. Thank you. Reginald Ferguson [00:57:51]: Always be fly.