We had the good fortune of connecting with Brian Harris and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Brian, what is the most important factor behind your success?
The most important factor behind the success of my brand is my wife Genevieve Carvil-Harris. She is the world’s favorite capacity building strategist and a business savant. Without her support and guidance I would not be where I am today.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
At Brown King Care, our mission is to empower men of color to embrace self-care and holistic health through a range of thoughtfully crafted products, including natural soaps, massage oils and body butters. What truly sets us apart is our unwavering dedication to addressing the unique self-care needs of men of color, a demographic often underrepresented in the wellness industry.
What I am most proud of is the positive impact we’ve had on the lives of our customers. Witnessing men of color find solace and prioritize their well-being through our products is truly rewarding. The excitement lies in the ongoing journey of reshaping traditional notions of self-care and health within our community.
Getting to where we are today was not without its challenges. Building Brown King Care required perseverance and the ability to navigate obstacles. We encountered difficulties in sourcing quality natural ingredients, establishing an online presence, and reaching our target audience. However, these challenges were opportunities for growth. We continue to overcome them through relentless research, networking with community champions, and continuously refining our business strategies.
The journey isn’t easy, but the challenges teach us valuable lessons. We have learned the importance of adaptability and the need to listen to our customers. Their feedback guided our product improvements and helped us tailor our offerings to suit their specific preferences. Additionally, staying committed to our vision even in the face of adversity proved crucial in building a brand that resonates with authenticity.
Our brand’s story is a testament to the power of representation and inclusivity. We want the world to know that self-care and holistic health are for everyone, regardless of their background. Our brand aims to shatter stereotypes, foster self-love, and inspire men of color to prioritize their well-being unapologetically. We’ve even been able to form collaborative partnerships with companies such as Build A Brother and Free To Live Management Services. Through our journey, we hope to inspire others to embark on their entrepreneurial path, especially if doubt is a stumbling block, by emphasizing that challenges are stepping stones toward success.
In essence, Brown King Care is more than just products – it’s a part of a movement that champions self-care, diversity, and holistic wellness. Our story is a blend of determination, community engagement, and a passionate drive to make a positive difference.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If anyone knows me they know that my wife and I love to support establishments that many people have never heard of so a week trip would more than likely play out like this.
Day 1: Exploring Black-Owned Eateries
We would start the trip with a hearty breakfast at “The Roost,” a beloved black-owned spot known for its delicious soul food and welcoming ambiance. Then spend the afternoon visiting the Black Market Miami, a collective of local black artisans and entrepreneurs, offering unique crafts and goods. For dinner we could eat at “Lil Greenhouse Grill,” where they serve up mouthwatering BBQ and comfort food, all while supporting the local community. It’s one of my wife’s favorite place and even Oprah went there.
Day 2: Beach Day with a Purpose
I love to enjoy the beach so we would begin the day with a sunrise stroll along South Beach, taking in the beautiful ocean views. After some beach time, we could head to “House of Wings,” a black-owned gem that offers a variety of awesome chicken wing flavors. My wife is a pageant queen so I’m sure she would coordinate a beach cleanup event combining faith-based values with environmental stewardship.
Day 3: Inspirational Morning
Sundays are for worship and good eating so we would attend a morning worship service at “The Living Word Family Enrichment Center,” an inviting and vibrant faith community church in Opa-Locka. Then we can grab a quick lunch at “Jackson Soul Food,” serving classic Southern dishes with a modern twist. After that soulful trip we can spend the afternoon exploring the “Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater Cultural Arts Complex,” where my best friend can learn about the rich history of black culture in Miami.
Day 4: Cultural Immersion
While I have strong Jamaican roots, my wife’s family has shared the cuisine of Haiti with me we could start Day 4 with breakfast at “Chez Le Bebe,” a family-owned Haitian restaurant offering traditional island flavors. Then we can visit the “African Heritage Cultural Arts Center,” a place near and dear to our hearts which hosts various workshops, performances, and exhibitions celebrating African culture. My mom is clearly still my favorite chef but until she officially opens “Mables Table” I have to share the wealth. We could create a full circle moment by indulging in dinner at “Clive’s Cafe,” known for its Jamaican cuisine and lively atmosphere.
Day 5: Adventure and Reflection
We could embark on an airboat tour through the Everglades, experiencing the natural beauty and diverse wildlife of the area. Then we could head to “Two Guys Restaurant,” a local spot serving authentic Caribbean dishes. I’m sure that you see a trend here. We would probably end up spending the evening at a fellowship gathering hosted by a church, as we have lots of friends who serve powerfully in ministry through Miami-Dade and Broward County.
Day 6: Art and Community
As the week is wrapping up we could explore the Wynwood Walls, a vibrant outdoor art gallery featuring impressive street art and murals. We could attend an evening arts concert like Dancing Towards Knowledge hosted by DCLARE & DECREE Community Arts ministry or a praise service like DRENCH NIGHT at RED Nation church.
Day 7: Farewell Celebration
Finally we could enjoy a leisurely brunch at “Finga Licking Miami,” offering a fusion of soul food and Caribbean flavors and spend the afternoon at the historic Virginia Key Beach Park, a significant site in Miami’s black history. That is how I would plan a power packed week for my best friend.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
A special shoutout to My beautiful wife Genevieve Carvil-Harris, the world’s favorite capacity building strategist, for helping me believe that entrepreneurship is a way for me to leave a lasting legacy and mark on the world. Credit should be given to my brand ambassador Adrian Bell for recommending me for this opportunity and for constantly introducing more people to our products at Brown King Care, and lastly my parents (Gilbert and Mable Harris & Raymond Sr. and Henrietta Carvil) without you both neither Genevieve or myself would be here.
Website: Www.brownkingcare.com
Instagram: @brownkingcare
Other: If you would like to support our SOAP NOT DOPE campaign to help young people develop entrepreneurship skills and live productive lives please contact us.
Image Credits
Arturo Lorde, AJ Shorter, Raymond Carvil Jr., Sylvester Leach, Glenn Payne and Lindsey Capron