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

Hi Nijah, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Starting my own clothing line had always been something I’ve wanted to do since the age of 14 but I didn’t know what I’d call it, so I never forced it. Until I started experiencing more mental health issues as the years went on, and realizing that I’m not the only one battling with these issues. So In 2019 the name just came to me, I’d like to say it casually dropped into my lap. EXHALE. I wanted something I could stand firm behind, a name that meant something, something I’d be proud of and still be an advocate for

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.
My need to be creative has been what’s set me aside from others. My art is simply how I freely express myself, and not everybody can say that. With my music, I’m able to say things that I wouldn’t feel as comfortable saying to anyone on the regular. With my fashion it’s allowing me to show my flashy/funky side and my usually reserved personality. One of the things I’m most proud of, is the impact I’ve had on others with my music and story. I feel as though I’m speaking up for others who can relate. I’m excited for my future simply because I don’t allow my creativity to be put in a box so anything could be in store for me in the future! Honestly I got this far from growing pains, experiencing life under my circumstances and simply put, trial and error. It hasn’t been easy and I’m still on my journey learning and growing. I’ve learned along the way, to always bet on myself. Believe in myself and my end goal, even when things seem to be going a different direction. Network! It’s not about what you know, but who you know. That alone, opens up a lot of doors because you build business relationships with people and now they’re mentioning your name in the face of opportunity, in rooms your feet have yet to enter. ,

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m honestly a foodie, so a good time to me is a place with great food and good music. And Dallas, Tx has a lot of those spots. Me personally I’m a huge fan of brunch, so the Social House for brunch, a nice bowling alley for fun, or a selfie museum, you can’t go wrong with a good photo-op. A nice place for dinner is The Bell’s Sweet factory. 10/10 lamb chops! The most fun places to me are any brunch places out here. It’s always good vibes with a mimosa in hand!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d actually love to give a s/o to my pops. He’s always been very supportive of any and everything I’ve ever put my mind to, even though his access to me is limited.

He calls me in my darkest moments, and reminds me that the storms don’t last and this too shall pass. When I feel like I’m not making enough progress within my business ventures and in life, in general, he speaks life back into me and I’m forever grateful!

Instagram: @boomicegod

Twitter: @boomicegod

Facebook: Nijah Crump

Youtube: https://youtu.be/wQnKe4SzJjk

Other: Brand Page @theexhaleapparel on Instagram

Image Credits
@mikelikestoshootfilm @iamaferrel @simmy.sosa @cs_photography501 @shootmesam

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.