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

Hi John, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My thought process is to just go for it. We try to find the perfect time to get started but our personal life issues seems to always hinder us from making tough decision, on when to start your business. You have to start with a plan, try to follow it as much as possible and get the ball rolling on the business. Also, the key is starting small, where you’re able to focus on your business at least a few hours of the day until you can eventually devote all your time to your business. The mistakes will happen but find the things that are working for you and be consistent with that.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My first brand I started years ago, was Fly Forever, while in design school. Over the past few years, I been putting out a collection of pieces, from shirts, shorts, joggers, sweaters and jackets. One my biggest challenges up to this point have been owning the brand name. Within the past two years I been in a legal battle with the trademark rights over my brand name. Although it’s been frustrating, I’ve pivoted my focus on releasing my first collection from my namesake label, Jacob & John. My namesake label Jacob & John is a more of a personal brand to myself and I set to put out a number of pieces from menswear, womenswear and home goods.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I think some of the best places to eat in Dallas, depending on your taste level, Sky Blossom, Gloria’s, Drakes and even Rudy’s chicken. Also, it’s a number of bars and clubs you’ll enjoy in the downtown/uptown area.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to shoutout two of my close friends who’ve help me along in my journey, Chris Samuels and Chris Coffer. These two brothers have been around for the highs and the low points of my life and are some of the friends I have that I can count on to keep it real with me, no matter the situation.

Website: www.fly-forever.com

Instagram: @thejohnpaulthomas

Linkedin: John Thomas

Twitter: @flyforeverllc

Facebook: John Paul Thomas

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.