YeKim

Want to wear the same designer clothes as some of Hollywood’s biggest stars?

YeKim is making it possible.

YeKim sells urban clothes at affordable prices. And thanks to endorsements from some of the biggest names in the music industry, this company's value could potentially skyrocket.

In 2013, YeKim’s founder, Martez Malone, decided to start a clothing line for artists in the music scene in Los Angeles.

His plan was to get his apparel in the hands – and on the backs – of as many celebrities as possible.

That’s because in Hollywood, who you’re wearing is just as important as what you’re wearing.

For example, 18 months ago, a company called Fashion Nova was valued at just $5 million. But endorsements on Instagram from celebrities such as the Kardashians vaulted Fashion Nova into the stratosphere. Now it's worth $250 million.

Meanwhile, in the mid-90s, stars like Busta Rhymes and LL Cool J wore Fubu-labeled clothes in their music videos, helping the clothing company reach more than $350 million in annual sales.

With that inspiration, Malone convinced major recording artists such as DJ Khaled, Nicki Minaj and Lil’ Wayne to promote the YeKim line on social media.

That exposure boosted the company’s reputation. And soon after, business took off.

In the last two years, YeKim has grossed more than $700,000 in sales. And over the past year, the company has received more than $1.3 million in purchase orders, including $700,000 over a three-day span during the company’s first wholesale trade show.

Currently, YeKim has two main revenue streams: retail (both online and at its offline store) and wholesale.

With respect to its margins: an item that costs the company $100 to make would wholesale for about $250, and retail for about $500.

YeKim also has plans for expansion. This summer, the company hopes to open its first retail store in Los Angeles, and more stores are planned.

YeKim also aims to purchase its own factory, with the goal of producing at least 50% of its products in-house.

Team Background

Martez Malone - CEO & Founder

Malone is the brains and designer behind YeKim.

Prior to YeKim, Malone served as COO and co-founder of “Family First Music Production Company.” One of his artists performed on Oprah's TV show.

Malone is originally from Chicago, Illinois.

Bill Waller - COO

Prior to joining YeKim, Waller was a sports and entertainment agent. He's managed award-winning singers, musicians and athletes for the past 35 years.

Waller was also big in the boxing industry, where he represented more than 21 world champions.

Waller was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in 1969, and was an All-American football player at Xavier University.

Matt McCarthy - Digital artist & web developer

McCarthy serves as YeKim’s digital artist and web developer.

Prior to that, he worked in film, photography and graphic design as a visual artist.

Michael Gilbert - VP Licensing

Gilbert was previously Vice President of Sales for Pierre Cardin.

He also operated Universal Licensing, Inc., a company focused on the latest brands, for more than 10 years.

Gilbert created the ‘Johnny Tocco Ringside Gym’ brand and signed boxing champion George Foreman to be the official spokesperson.

Bernard Dillard - Financial Advisor

Dillard serves as YeKim’s financial advisor and works as an advisor for Morgan Stanley.

Prior to that, he spent time at a mutual fund where he specialized in retirement and estate planning for a high net worth division.

Dillard graduated with a bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Arizona.

Aaron Curry - Business Manager

In addition to being the brand manager for YeKim, Curry works as a commercial real estate agent for Keller Williams.

Prior to that, Curry spent four months as an event coordinator at The Supper Club. His duties included fostering relationships with brands for sponsorship opportunities.

Curry graduated with a degree in political science from the University of Arizona.

Ishmael Mayhew - Marketing

Project Manager at Lineage Interactive. Experienced web and media content developer, working in television production and media entertainment.

Bill "Brand Master" Waller - COO

Renowned sports and entertainment agent. Worked with iconic entertainers and athletes for the last 35 years. Previously advisor, manager & mentor to award-winning singers, musicians, and 21 world boxing champions.

Michael Gilbert - VP Licensing

Previously Vice President of Sales for Pierre Cardin, operated Universal Licensing, Inc. for 10+ years, creator or ‘Johnny Tocco Ringside Gym’ brand.

Temple Poteat - CFO

In addition to serving as CFO with YeKim, Poteat works as a real estate agent with Keller Williams and is CFO of Richmond Hill Entertainment, an entertainment company in Los Angeles, California.

Previously, Poteat spent time as the CEO of AMP Investments, a real estate investment firm in Burbank, California.

Poteat is a Los Angeles-based actress and model.

Darren Moulden - Marketing

Men's Fashion and Lifestyle Blogger. Former Fashion Editor for a major media outlet, and celebrity stylist.

Damilola Bajomo - Marketing

Creative director and brand strategist specializing in creative branding & marketing, influencer relations, social media and event production.

Co-Investors