never ordinary, always EPIC

The power of image cannot be underestimated, and with the limited positive images of brown children, especially brown boys, sisters Cara Johnson-Graves and Jenae Johnson-Carr decided to produce their Happy Hues Collection through their EPIC EVERYDAY Corporation.  EPIC is an acronym for empowered, positive, innovative, creative.  

As wives, moms, and proud HBCU graduates, they created a lifestyle brand that positively represents “mocha-hued” children who are often overlooked and underrepresented.  

“The lack of true inclusion is the reason we intentionally wanted to change the narrative,” Cara and Jenae tell BLK Oceans. “ Upon recognizing the extreme lack of diversity, we made a conscientious decision to design a positive self-reflection collection to inspire the next generation. They need to feel confident, powerful, and proud to be ME!” 

Each item in the collection showcases diverse skin tones, hairstyles, and hair textures placed on bright background colors – orange, yellow, hot pink, and blue.  Mocha-hued children can be seen on the Home Collection line of pillowcases, blankets, duvets, and hooded towels.  There are also adult chest packs, fanny packs, and totes.  The children’s backpacks are very popular along with the Happy Hues lunch bag, designed to make fun experiences out of portable meals and portable snacks.

Cara and Jenae have recently launched the Happy Hues Hoodies, and during Black History Month, they plan to launch a mocha-hue collection of apparel for the entire family, along with some EPIC additional accessories. This lifestyle brand adds “mocha-hued” visibility at school, home, and everywhere you go.  It supports the next generation in thriving in self-love and in the celebration of diversity. 

“Each and every day, we strive to offer images of vibrantly hued children on everyday items,” say Cara and Jenae. “[Our products] empower them to love their skin color, embrace their hair, and own their unique style!” 

Follow EPIC EVERYDAY on Instagram for more.