Meet Marical Mitchell: Sock Lady

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

Hi Marical, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I feel like having your own platform gives you a missing piece that establishes your brand, name, and generational wealth in this world and in our community. Being a black women in business is highlighted in our culture because so many people won’t take the risk or use their resources to expand their empire. I use my platform to uplift, inspire and put people in positions to be their own boss, while maximizing on their ideas and growth mindset. Starting your own business doesn’t take a lot of work but it does take a lot of consistency, love, passion, and being able to adapt with the changing times around us. It also takes a clear vision, a little bit of money, some hustle, and networking wherever you go. We live in a right now Era and if you see it say it, write it, and believe it you will succeed in it. 

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Upper Echelon Socks ”UE” was born out of the creative mind of Marical Mitchell. I wanted to invent a company that would provide well-constructed fashion and was close to my compassion. The name is a symbolization that enacts the quality and vision that embraces more than just a name, but a global trademark. I’ve always been a hustler even when I was in the 2nd grade I went around the neighborhood trying to wash cars and mow lawns to create my own path and make money. I started freshly knitting my socks by machine. I would knit, print and wash them to ensure the quality and durability. My socks are super comfortable with air filters throughout the sock for a breathable feel. They have a 75% compression to help with circulation. Socks are vital for the overall health of your feet. Upper Echelon Socks are a temperature-based sock to ensure your feet stay dry and comfortable. The spandex in the arch of the foot along with bamboo fibers throughout can help prevent cancer in the foot and they’re just AWESOME to look at. Every single pair is made with love. I began locally at the farmers market which taught me the grind and drive that it takes to sell my product. Literally, getting it out the mud. It is an experience, but worth every blood, sweat and tear. I was able to meet so many people in business. I would go to seminars and trades shows to network, which lead to getting my socks into over 50 stores as well as multiple fashion shows. It opened doors to receiving invites to private events and shows around the world. In this process I’ve learned, starting a business and staying in business also to never give up! As long as you have the drive, will power, believe in your craft and keep the right people around you, you will always succeed! I’m most proud of being in business for 5 years and creating a stable foundation for me to continuously build on. It has motivated me to start 5 more businesses that range from real estate, a juice bar, an authorized buyer (clothing and accessory), Airbnb and now building an awesome app. God has kept me!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I love my city, so it will be easy for me to show anyone an amazing time right here where it all began. I would put them in my Airbnb which is in the heart of downtown Dallas. We would head to one of my favorite rooftops, Sky Blossom which is in walking distance. There we would have drinks and food while taking in a wonderful view. Next we would walk down the street to this fantastic cupcake bakery, Fuellens. Ooouu it’s so delicious. Once we’re finish enjoying dessert, we would rent electrical scooter and ride through the city being sure to stop at the Dallas arts museum. The DMA always has new artifacts about Dallas and all over the world. So now it’s probably about 3pm and it would be a great time to run by the Dallas farmers market to enjoy some of the best foods and hand-crafted items that are big in Dallas. Lastly, we would stop in one of Dallas most popular places to hang out, hear some live music at the free man and also grab great food. Stir would be a top choice which has very good dishes, a nice rooftop and such a vibe. During some part of their visit we would attend a Dallas Cowboys game, Americas team. Following the game, we would hang out at Texas Live to network mingle. To finish off their trip, we would also check out any seminars or women in business conferences. There is always one being held here in Dallas as this is the city where many come to build, learn, grow and achieve greatness. A trip to my hometown is always memorable and LIT:)

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to begin with GOD who is my Almighty that push me to never give up when times get tough or money was low. God gave me a reason to continue my walk of purpose in business for myself. Being a Graduate from Hampton university molded me to become the entrepreneur I am today. Being able utilize my resources, make forever friendships, partnerships and always know what black excellence looks like. I also have a wonderful family that is very successful in the corporate world. That always motivated me to stay educated and never quit when the odds were against me. Having the support of like-minded entrepreneurs (friends and family) has been vital in expanding my vision for my business.

Website: www.upperechelonsocks.com
Instagram: upperechelonsocks
Facebook: upperechelonsocks

Image Credits
Empress Marketing is one of the best in Dallas with the graphics and web design. New Lab Visuals i couldn’t have been here without there photos and commercials there awesome