Today we’d like to introduce you to Imani Pope.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Hi I’m Imani, founder of Serene the Brand LLC. A little bit about my upbringing—I was raised by my mother and grandmother in Ferguson, and I’ve been in Ferguson all of my life.
I started my business during COVID with a passion for all things holistic and natural, which led to the creation of my crystal necklaces and waistbeads. During that season, I wanted to build something that represented peace, healing, and calm energy, which is how the name Serene came to life. It showed not only the brand I wanted to create, but also the peace I felt within myself when I would create.
I must say, my journey has been deeper than business—it’s been spiritual. I grew up in the church and was baptized when I was 7, so I’ve always had a foundation in Christ. But like many people, I went through seasons where I strayed away and tried to figure life out on my own. Through life experiences, growth, and grace, I found my way back.
In 2024, I fully gave my life back to Christ, and that changed everything for me. My brand began to evolve with me, and I began using my business as a way to reflect the growth I experienced personally and spiritually.
I’ve been in a ton of pop-up shops and events, and I’ve even gotten into hosting recently.
Today, my journey is about more than products—it’s about testimony, growth, and using my platform through jewelry and waistbeads to spread peace, purpose, confidence, and the love of Christ. Waistbeads will forever be my first love.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely has not been a smooth road. Like many entrepreneurs, my journey has come with challenges, setbacks, and moments of uncertainty. One of the biggest struggles was learning how to build a business from the ground up with limited resources while still trying to stay motivated and consistent. There were seasons where sales were slow, support was limited, and I questioned if I should keep going.
Another challenge was balancing personal growth with business growth. As I was evolving spiritually and mentally, my brand was evolving too. I had to learn that it’s okay to outgrow old versions of yourself and allow your business to reflect who you are becoming.
I also faced the pressure of comparing myself to others and feeling like I needed to have everything figured out right away. But over time, I learned that everyone’s journey is different, and success doesn’t happen overnight.
Through it all, those struggles built my resilience, strengthened my faith, and taught me to keep going even when things aren’t perfect. Every obstacle has helped shape both the woman and business owner I am today.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am the founder of Serene the Brand LLC, a lifestyle and creative brand centered around confidence, femininity, peace, and self-expression. I specialize in handcrafted waistbeads, jewelry, and creating experiences that bring women together through community events and uplifting spaces. Over time, my brand has grown into more than products—it has become a reflection of healing, growth, and empowerment.
I’m known for my waistbeads and the confidence they bring to women, as well as the personal touch and care I put into everything I create. I’m also becoming known for hosting meaningful events that bring people together in positive and inspiring environments.
What I’m most proud of is starting my business from the ground up during COVID and continuing to grow it through every season of life. I’m proud that I turned a simple idea into a real brand with loyal supporters, pop-up shop opportunities, and community events. I’m also proud that I’ve allowed my personal growth and faith journey to positively shape my business.
What sets me apart is authenticity. My brand has grown with me, so people aren’t just supporting products—they’re supporting a real story, real growth, and real passion. I put intention into what I create, and I genuinely want women to feel beautiful, confident, and at peace when they connect with my brand.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
I am currently reading “How to be an Adult in Relationships” by DAVID RICHO The podcast I listen to the most is “Affirmations For Black Girls” -Tyra the Creative
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_serenethebrand?igsh=MWxzNXI5Y2R2eGNkeQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1AbmfwuwGY/?mibextid=wwXIfr
