I Refused to be Counted Out!

I’ve spent a lifetime pushing back against every label that was unfairly slapped on me.

Teen mom.

High school dropout.

Drug addict.

From the outside looking in, most people thought they had me figured out, but they didn’t.

The truth is, I started fighting for my future at fifteen when I gave birth to my son in a small Southern Illinois town that loved to whisper but rarely offered help. My support system was nearly nonexistent, and I was surrounded by addiction, dysfunction, and gossip that cut deeper than most people could imagine.

They said I wouldn’t make it, and they said I was done before I ever got started. But I refused to believe them.

What I did believe in, and what I still believe in today, is redemption, growth, the power of kindness, and second chances.

That belief is what led me to finally start SFC (Spoiler alert: I went on to graduate from both high school and college and I found recovery)

This business isn’t just about printing custom t-shirts or bulk orders for recovery groups and churches. It’s about creating apparel that feeds your soul. It’s about providing clothing that helps people feel proud of who they are and reminds them of who they’re becoming.

I want people to wear their story, not their shame!

I show up every day with compassion, passion, and purpose because I know what it’s like to feel unseen and to be written off. But I also know what it’s like to rise anyway.

Swag Fashion Co., LLC (initially Soul Food Creations, but I tired of folks askin' for my cornbread recipe) was born to serve more than just customers. It was created to serve the community and to provide high-quality screen printing and direct-to-film apparel with heart behind every thread.

Whether you’re leading a recovery group, building a business, managing a church event, or just trying to feel better about your day, I want to serve you with integrity and intention.

I believe every person deserves to feel worthy and accepted, especially those who’ve made mistakes or lived through hard things.

I believe your past doesn’t define your future. I believe you can wear your mission, your message, and your hope on your sleeve. Literally.

So, if you’re reading this and feeling a little bit alone, let me remind you:

• You are not too far gone.

• You are not invisible.

• You are beautiful and wonderfully made.

• And this business was built for people just like you.

If this spoke to your soul, I’d love to invite you to subscribe and stay connected. I’ll be here daily, writing not just to share my journey, but to speak life into anyone running on empty.

Up next:

“How Shame Almost Made Me Quit Before I Ever Started”

(A raw look at the silent war between self-doubt and God’s grace)

Because the world doesn’t need more polished perfection.

It needs more honest voices and a whole lot more grace.

Thank you for being here.

Thank you for reading.

And if nobody’s told you lately, you belong, and I love you.

Giving up is never an option,

Andrea