LaWanda didn't let anything get in her way of achieving her goals, dreams, and aspirations. Diagnosed with a rare medical condition and having several close calls to losing her life, she strived through it all with determination to live life to the fullest while enhancing the lives of others by doing what she loved. After evaluating her new normal and deciding to make the best out of what life had given her, she decided to go full-on with building her empire.
Growing up in the city of Springfield, Massachusetts, she learned early on that there was more to life, she knew she only needed the right opportunity and the chance to live outside of her norm. She knew venturing out was the only way to see, experience, and grow as a person and a professional.
LIFE CHANGING...
As a little girl, she dreamed of becoming a professional ice skater, wearing the beautiful costumes, flying through the air like she was on a cloud not having a care in the world. Unfortunately, unknown to her God had other plans for her. At the age of six, LaWanda went into the hospital to have routine surgery and in the blink of an eye, her world would be forever be changed. After surgery LaWanda was told that there were several complications during the surgery and that she would never walk again. Devastated as anyone would be she had to begin to go on a whole new journey she knew nothing about and face the fact that her childhood dreams were no longer an option. After several years passed she learned a new way of life she had become accustomed to as her new normal. In 1991, she started a hobby that became her outlet to ease the stresses and constant battles she was dealing with in everyday life, yes #sewing. One day her grandmother and she began to make teddy bear dresses and then would sell them at the local flea markets, this brought so much indescribable joy to her, and she was addicted to the entire process. Every day since that day LaWanda has kept a sewing machine by her side. This was her peace, #FASHION.
After completing high school, she attended college where she earned a business degree in 2003. LaWanda knew there was always more to life and more she could achieve if just given the opportunity. In 2004 LaWanda decided now was the time to leave her hometown, take that leap of faith, and live out her dreams of becoming a fashion mogul, creating couture pieces that were not only beautiful but also that helped other women gain confidence within themselves that she had once lost herself. She loved everything fashion related and wanted to explore that world. LaWanda knew there was always more to life and more she could achieve.
Now an Atlanta resident LaWanda entered Bauder college and began her journey into the fashion design world. She earned a degree in Fashion Design and another in Product Development. During college, LaWanda began to test the designs and started getting noticed for her #unique style and use of #unconventional textures and textiles. These designs were seen on A- list celebrities, music artists, and various Atlanta socialites. She would participate in various fashion shows and would receive so much love she decided to take it up another level.
NEVER GIVING UP...
LaWanda never seen her disability as an obstacle throughout her journey, she saw it as more of an opportunity to show others in her situation and the world that she was a strong force to be reckoned with. She wanted to inspire others and be a voice in the #differentlyable community letting others know to never give up and that there are always other options to live out your dreams.
HER PURPOSE...
From that moment on LaWanda had confirmation that fashion was her true calling. She loved sketching and seeing her creations come to life, and even more, she loved the fact that her talents were helping women become confident, feel powerful, and secure with their bodies. Her goals were finally being accomplished.
MISSION ACCOMPLISHED...
In 2017 LaWanda decided to take what started out as just a creative outlet and turn it into a successful #worldwide #couture #luxury #fashion #brand. A brand that stands for #confidence, #strength, #class, and #empowerment. A brand of #value and #quality. Creating unique pieces for the unique person.
WISPER COUTURE
Est. 2017