Peace Kings and Queens!

My name is Tara James, and I'm here because I'm one step closer to my dreams.....I just need YOUR help getting there! *insert prayer hands* 

Here's the tea:
A little over a year ago I started a company called By Ms. James. It's a handmade paper goods line that celebrates family, my appreciation for black culture, and my weird obsession with doodling...no really; the doodling is a serious problem.   -__-


Anywho, when I was younger, my father used to buy us black greeting cards. At the time, I thought they were super corny, but without fail, on every major holiday, he would give them to us with a black image gracing the cover and a message on the inside that I could relate to. Eventually, the cards stopped coming because they were only sold at independent black bookstores which all eventually closed down (f**cking gentrification). Over the years I couldn't help but miss them, after thinking about it for a very, very long time, I woke up on a cold rainy day in December and said screw it! I loved those cards, other people will love those cards, let's give this thing a go, and here we are!


While filling a personal void, I was able to create something that people could relate to; I was able to create a voice that is honest, refreshing and real. My cards allow me to extend to others the practical advice, inspiring quotes and "teachable moments" that were given to me over the years. I've been granted the opportunity to dig deeper into my history and culture and given the ability to preserve a diminished past. 


Now to the point! 
Recently I was blessed with a once in a lifetime opportunity to get this company into virtually every store (or at least a lot of them) in the world!!!! I'm not exaggerating either!

 How, do you say?
By attending the National Stationery Show at the Javits Center in New York City this May. It's THEE place to be if you're in love with paper goods just as much as I am! This Stationary Show will catapult my company forward, putting it exactly where I see it going.


Now, I wouldn't be here if I didn't need help...
I'm not sure if you guys are familiar with trade shows (I wasn't either), but these things are EXPENSIVE. Well worth it, but hella expensive and for those of you who know me, know that I'm the last person to ask for help, which is ridiculous if you think about it. But here I am... ASKING.

Specifically, I'm asking for money to help cover the expenses for this trip. I've included a detailed list below that breaks down how and where every dollar will be spent. So whether it's $5.00, $10.00 or $1,000 every amount helps!

Ohh and do think you won't get anything in return…Not only are you helping this gal fund her dream, but you'll also get a chance to take home some awesome goodies! Take a peek below to see what they are.


THANK YOU GUYS IN ADVANCE FOR EVERYTHING! Thank you for reading this, your love, positive energy, well wishes, prayers and good vibes. It’s very much APPRECIATED!!! 

Spread the word, Share this video and help me get to the National Stationery Show. 




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Budget for the NSS


Booth Expenses
Booth Fee
Walls (Materials, Labor, and Paint)
Floors
Lighting
Electric
Furniture
Vinyl
Storage for walls
Total:  $5000


Travel Expenses
Freight for Walls
Flights (self + assistant)
Daily pay for assistants
Hotel (double beds)
Food
Show food + booth snacks
Packed lunch
Total: $3000


Marketing
Catalog
Mailers
Press kit
Order forms
Business cards
Giveaway items
Total: $1500


Misc. Expenses
Tools
Supplies
Miscellaneous 
Total: $500


Grand Total:  $10,000