Meet Crystal Bateman | Owner of Crystal Layne Fashion

We had the good fortune of connecting with Crystal Bateman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Crystal, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
In the course of my management career, I’ve always enjoyed brightening up an employee’s day. Whether that meant, words of encouragement to the team, creating sales contests to get staff excited or just being a manager that made a positive impact on someone’s life. Majority of the jobs I’ve worked were involved in upper management, but I can’t say I was given the same respect from all of the bosses I had. Being a good leader is not about using your power to your advantage, it means leading by example. Respect is not just given, it is earned. I would never ask an employee to do a task that I wouldn’t do myself. As a manager, I never felt above doing all aspects of a job in the workplace because everyone’s position is important to the entire success of the company. Sure, I was making an impact on a collection of people with this point of view, but I wanted to make a bigger difference to the masses. What better way to exercise these beliefs than to start your own business with incorporating what you love.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I have always considered myself someone that has a creative mind and thinks outside the box. Many people will always try to drag you down and push the breaks on your ideas or vision. Stay true to yourself and treat others the way you want to be treated along the way. I am a firm believer in listening to your gut because that is how Crystal Layne Fashion was born. I have loved fashion and anything having to do with clothing my entire life. We are an apparel decorator that specializes in embroidery and screen print for businesses. There are numerous competitors in our industry that are just “order takers.” They don’t make suggestions or assist you with what will work best for your brand. This is where the creative piece comes in handy, when helping our clients. We are here to create logo apparel that stands out in their wardrobe and becomes a garment they want to keep wearing. Most company logo apparel are items you wear because you have to, not because you want to. Crystal Layne Fashion helps make those clothing aspirations a reality. Whether we are helping design merch for music tours, choosing the best polo for your left chest embroidery or picking the best color garments that will make your logo pop. Every decision matters when creating exceptional quality work.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When it comes to having a good time, food will be a top player in getting a good smile from me. St. Martins Wine Bistro is an eclectic and relaxing spot. They usually have a wonderful piano player hitting the notes, amazing escargot and exceptional menu choices. This gem has been around for over 45 years and it’s very close to my heart because my parents use to have their date nights here. I am a sucker for some delicious sushi and Nobu is a must when looking for a perfect dinner outing and the sushi will change your life. I must say, taking a trip to L. Bartlett for some shopping therapy is always a good idea. They have the best dress choices and the cutest outfits that are worth running your credit card. If you are looking for the best whiskey sour in town, hit up Harper’s. You will not be disappointed with the fresh drinks and trendy ambiance.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Starting a business is not an easy task or something that just happens over night. My husband was extremely supportive, helpful and encouraging during the process. I am thankful and appreciative of him and his nurturing trait to take care of things, while I was getting my business up and going.

Website: Www.crystallayne.com

Instagram: Crystal_Layne_Fashion

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/crystal-layne-sanders/