Exploring Life & Business with Joey Graham of FWD Clothing Company

Today we’d like to introduce you to Joey Graham. 

Hi Joey, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
The name came from an abbreviated version of the word forward (FWD) and the meaning came from the idea of always pushing ahead regardless of what life throws at you. 

Simply put: Our slogan and branding represents good vibes ahead & to us that meant “Life is filled with ups and downs. Ride the wave of life and spread good vibes along the way!” 

We launched in 2016 out of our iconic 1968 VW bus. Our goal was to create insanely soft clothing that brings a Design Focused & surf-inspired/beach vibe feel to Nashville while also creating a cool Nashville graphic collection that honors the city we started in! 

After 4 years of operating in the mobile bus, we built out and partnered with a local bar to build our flagship store in the trendy 12 south neighborhood. Think “cocktails & clothing” all in one. It’s a fun vibe and we aim to create a lasting memory for every person who steps in our shop. 

Whether you leave with a FWD hat, pair of sunglasses, or a Nashville tee, it’s important to know that you’re representing us and our idea of pushing ahead and spreading good vibes everywhere you go! 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Nothing in life that’s worth having is ever easy. The key to any struggle or adversity we ever faced required us to simply remember what our brand stands for and to follow an approach I’ve dubbed the “CPR”approach! 

Whether it was a design that flopped, a slow day sales-wise, or a mishap with supply chain…staying consistent, being patient, and continuing to build good relationships every day remains key to our success. 

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about FWD Clothing Company?
We’re an insanely soft clothing Company that is design-focused and surf-inspired for the good vibes ahead. 

I’m the owner/founder and day-to-day operator of the business. My business partner, Joe Minham, is vital to our success through his online expertise and creative lead! We collaborate on just about every piece of the business. I focus more on the operations, financials, and storefront sales while he handles a lot of our backend operations. Both are extremely important to our success and I give him loads of credit for helping get us to year 5! 

Being good people and creating a brand that stands for more than just a transaction. We pride ourselves in high-quality product at a reasonable price! 

The biggest takeaway we hope our customers and supporters receive, aside from them loving our design aesthetic, is we want everyone to love what we stand for! Our why is the most important thing. We donate monthly to our local Make-A-Wish chapter here in Middle TN but don’t publicize it bc we care more about making a quiet, positive impact on those who need it. Our goal is that when you see the FWD logo, you’re always reminded that life isn’t always easy but good things are ahead! 

What does success mean to you?
I’m fascinated with the idea and concept behind success. Lots of people look at it as a financial number which being financially free is somewhat part of the equation. However, the older I get, the more I’ve realized…success to me is about waking up every day with the ability to do what I love. And I truly mean that. Sure, we all want financial freedom but to me, if I have the opportunity to do and create something I’m passionate about every day…that’s success through and through. And the funny thing is, when you do that & pursue what you enjoy, the financial gains tend to follow along. Being driven by your why leads you to whatever success you desire! 

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: Fwdclothing.com
• Instagram: @fwdclothing
• Facebook: FWD Clothing Co.
• Youtube: FWD Clothing Comapny