Introduction
Welcome to My Journey, a testament to resilience, reinvention, and an entrepreneurial spirit that refuses to falter. From humble beginnings shaped by family values and childhood ambition to navigating the complexities of business ownership, this journey is a reflection of growth, lessons learned, and the unwavering drive to leave a legacy.
Throughout my career, I’ve worn many hats—innovator, creator, strategist, and mentor. Whether it’s launching a travel brand recognized internationally, building ventures in hospitality, or collaborating with talented artists to transform visions into reality, my story is one of embracing opportunities, learning from setbacks, and persevering against all odds.
This is more than a collection of achievements; it’s a narrative of determination and purpose, showing how passion and grit can overcome even the toughest challenges. Join me as I share my journey, one that continues to evolve with every step forward.
My Story
The Foundations of an Entrepreneur
My journey began with the values instilled by my parents, whose entrepreneurial spirit laid the foundation for my ambitions. As a child, I dabbled in business ventures like selling peanuts and running a snow cone and nacho stand. These small endeavors were more than just fun; they were the seeds of a lifelong passion for creating, building, and innovating.
Growing up, I worked in my family’s businesses—D & D Gourmet Popcorn and Lady Di’s Bakery—learning the art of resilience and the intricacies of running a business. These experiences were invaluable, teaching me lessons about dedication, hard work, and perseverance that would later shape my entrepreneurial journey.
Forging My Path
Though my love for entrepreneurship was clear, my journey wasn’t without twists and turns. I explored Corporate America, pursued a degree in electronics, and even studied video game design before earning a Bachelor’s in Technical Management with a focus on Sales and Marketing. I came close to completing a Master’s degree, but the call to forge my own path was too strong to resist.
Building Vacay On Layaway
My curiosity about the travel industry led me to establish Vacay On Layaway, a web-based travel company that quickly gained recognition. By 2017 and 2018, I was honored as a top 50 travel specialist for Jamaica, celebrated for my expertise in crafting memorable experiences in Mexico and the Caribbean. From large group trips to over 80 destination weddings, Vacay On Layaway was a reflection of my passion for creating unforgettable moments for others.
However, life had other plans. The pandemic dealt a significant blow to the tourism industry, forcing me to navigate one of the toughest periods of my career. I lost over $170K in commissions, yet I refused to let these setbacks define my story.
Ventures and Resilience
As Vacay On Layaway faced challenges, I explored new ventures. Partnering with Alexander Blane, I co-founded AB Music Group, a creative hub for talent and innovation. I also ventured into the restaurant industry with projects like Tavern On Lagrange, experiencing both its highs and its lows. Despite the challenges, I steered the restaurant to success, only to face setbacks that required me to pivot yet again.
Amidst these ventures, I launched Meek’s Vegan Kitchen, a testament to my resilience and ability to adapt. Unfortunately, fraudulent activities involving former business partners created obstacles, leading to the closure of this venture. Yet, even in the face of adversity, my spirit remained unshaken.
A Legacy of Growth
Today, my journey is far from over. I’m focused on scaling Vacay On Layaway with new innovations, including a mobile app and updated website, while recruiting talented agents to support its growth. My experiences have taught me the importance of adaptability, perseverance, and staying true to my vision.
Through all the ups and downs, my journey remains a testament to the power of resilience and the endless possibilities that arise from embracing challenges. This is a story of not just entrepreneurship, but of transformation, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to building a legacy that inspires others.
Key Life Events
1982: The Beginning
Born in Chicago, IL, to Diane Barnes and Donnell Williams, my arrival brought joy to my family. My early years were filled with love, support, and a nurturing environment that instilled in me the foundation for the ambitious, resilient, and driven individual I would become. Even as a child, I displayed curiosity and a drive to explore, traits that would later fuel my entrepreneurial spirit.
1999: Graduation & Ambition
Graduated high school and began my college journey just six days later. Enrolled at ITT Technical Institute, studying Electrical Engineering. These formative years sparked my interest in technology and set the stage for a career marked by problem-solving and innovation.
2000-2002: Career Beginnings & Fatherhood
Started my professional career as an Electronic Technician at Federal Signal Corporation, testing and repairing circuit boards and building critical emergency warning systems. In 2002, the birth of my first child inspired me to transition, leaving the role to assist in growing my family’s business, Lady Di’s Bakery.
2008: Launching Vacay On Layaway
Recognizing an opportunity in the travel industry, I founded Vacay On Layaway, a company designed to revolutionize how consumers plan vacations by offering flexible payment plans. This venture not only opened doors in the tourism industry but also allowed me to create unforgettable experiences for clients worldwide.
2012: Higher Education Achievement
Graduated from DeVry University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Technical Management, majoring in Sales and Marketing. Two weeks later, I began pursuing my Master’s degree, further solidifying my foundation in business strategy and operations.
2014: A Leap of Faith
Resigned from my corporate position as an FTC Supervisor at Comcast Cable to fully commit to my entrepreneurial ventures. This bold move propelled Vacay On Layaway to new heights, where I employed creative sales and marketing strategies to grow the business.
2017-2018: Industry Recognition
Achieved recognition as a Top 50 Travel Specialist for Jamaica by global industry leaders in the United States, London, and Canada. This acknowledgment validated my dedication to creating meaningful travel experiences, specializing in group trips and destination weddings.
2020: Adapting Through the Pandemic
Pivoted during the pandemic by founding 360 Branding & Marketing to assist businesses with branding, marketing, and operations. At the same time, I co-founded Tavern On Lagrange, leading it to generate $10 million annually before parting ways due to ethical concerns.
2022: Resilience Through Challenges
Co-owned and operated Meek’s Vegan Kitchen, a vegan restaurant with two locations. Despite its closure in 2023 due to identity theft and licensing complications, the experience reinforced my determination to overcome adversity and rebuild stronger.
2023: A New Chapter
Welcomed my first grandchild, marking a new and meaningful chapter in my life. Returned to Lady Di’s Bakery to support my mother’s vision while focusing on rebuilding Vacay On Layaway with enhancements like a mobile app, updated website, and a team of agents poised for growth.
Today: Turning Vision Into Reality
With over two decades of experience across multiple industries, I’ve mastered the art of scaling businesses, building resilient strategies, and creating impactful branding solutions. My journey reflects the lessons I’ve learned, the challenges I’ve overcome, and my unwavering commitment to innovation and growth.
Are you ready to take your vision to the next level? Whether you’re looking for guidance on business structuring, branding, marketing, or strategic operations, I’m here to help. Schedule a consultation today and let’s start building your success story together.
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