Making an impact in the world by spreading love, positivity, and encouraging people to embrace their uniqueness through fashion is one of the main goals for Blake Landon, founder of the clothing brand, BLEU. While this goal is certainly admirable for anyone to have, it is perhaps even more impressive for the seven-year-old entrepreneur and motivational speaker who until the age of four, was unable to speak a word.
“We started BLEU because people were being mean to me because I didn’t sound like them,” he said. “When I was two years old I couldn’t speak. I was diagnosed with a phonological disorder and although I tried to speak the words would not come out.”
It would take two and a half more years until Blake would experience a breakthrough. Due to the support from his parents and a speech therapist, he was finally able to express himself. Fast-forward to today, and Blake can be found with his apparel engaging patrons at major conferences, expos, fashion shows and festivals, as well as sharing inspirational messages on social media about success, perseverance and the meaning behind BLEU.
BLEU stands for Build Love Embrace Uniqueness. His mother, Nicole, works with him on a daily basis to build the brand. She often marvels at his creativity and the progress he has made, not only with his speaking, but how he fearlessly navigates each day despite the obstacles he has faced. From the moment he was able to speak, Nicole noticed the entrepreneurial fire within him.
“He wanted to be a YouTube star back then at four years old, but he couldn’t speak yet,” she said. “One time he wanted some money, so he drew some pictures that he wanted to sell and sent them to my family members. Everyone bought a picture and he got the money. From that point on, he was sold on being a young businessman.”
BLEU has grown in popularity among youth and adults who enjoy the stylish colorways and the positive message behind the brand. His sweatshirts and hoodies consist of his signature “BLEU Bear,” and catch phrases such as “Embrace Uniqueness,” “Build Love,” and “I Watched. I Read. I Listened. I Learned.” People are also inspired by the mindset, maturity and resilience of Blake. With no plans of slowing down, the young rising star eyes massive success and a nationally recognized brand in his future.
Along with that success, Blake intends to use his platform to increase awareness of developmental disabilities such as autism and other social communication disorders. He also aims to inspire people from all walks of life to understand that it is ok to be “different,” because that is what makes the world exciting.
“When nobody else believes in you, you have to believe in yourself, no matter if you are big or small,” Blake said. “Keep going and never stop.”
Learn more about BLEU by Blake Landon on Instagram here or by visiting the website at https://bleubyblakelandon.shop.
Photo Credits: Bleu Blake London
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