Jesse Sansevere – I Heart Booty Interview
How did “I Heart Booty” come about?
I Heart Booty has been around since April 2011 so we are relatively new. I was looking to start a new fashion trend, with something so revolutionary it makes people automatically want that product. That was accomplished alone with our signature bracelets.
What are you trying to accomplish with your company?
I want this to be an ice-breaker for colon cancer. The bracelets make it easier to talk about the topic with the average person. (Trust me it’s not easy to talk to a random person about a colonoscopy) I’m looking to one day have a whole line of products and I know the bracelets are a great way to get the movement started. The brand is already gaining tons of credibility in the growing phases of the company.
Are you donating any of your proceeds to charity?
I’m linked up with the Fight Colorectal Cancer foundation from Washington D.C, one of the leading advocates in the fight against colon cancer. To start, 10% of the proceeds from each bracelet sold are being donated directly to them. (Our intentions are to raise that number once we are more established) $0.88 on each $1 thats donated, goes directly towards the fight against colon cancer. We also will be actively promoting a media awareness campaign with general tips on how to stay healthy, along with news, statistics, patient advice and more.
How has skating influenced your company/personal life?
I eat, breathe and live for skateboarding ever since I was nine years old. My passion for skating has never slowed down. It’s the best way I know how to express myself. It’s my culture, hobby and escape from everything else. Skateboarding has influenced my company because to most people, skating is rebellious and not socially accepted everywhere you go. At the same time it’s well liked by a majority of people. I feel my logo gives off the same statement and makes a huge impact on anyone who see’s the trademark.
Do you find skaters are more open to your cause and more willing to contribute?
Yes, of course. Skaters have a brotherhood with each other and I’ve seen nothing but support and promotion from them thus far. People not only recognize me as “Jesse” from a skate video or from a certain skatepark, but now as the guy who has created the “I <3 booty!" bracelets.
Are you planning any skateboarding based merchandise with your company?
I <3 booty! skateboards are definitely one of my goals to accomplish as the company expands. I plan on designing t-shirts, hoodies, snap-back hats, etc. I even hope to have a girls line of clothing out in the near future. We look forward to hearing from some readers of Steez with some suggestions!
Last words and shout outs?
Theres a good quote to live by from Ralph Waldo Emerson, “Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” Thats the direction I feel like I’m headed in with not only this company, but my life as well. Society as a whole scrutinizes individuals who decide to stray off the “set out” path over the course of our lifetimes. This company is a strong operation from the ground up, and I know it will teach me many life experiences at such a young age. I have everything in the world to prove to people including, supporters who stood by me from day one, the doubters, and individuals who are just becoming associated with the “I <3 booty!" name. "Some people want it to happen, some wish it would happen, and others make it happen." Be one of those few who’s an inspiration to others, and make it happen.
Feel free to visit our page, and pickup a bracelet from our official Facebook Shop.
I’d like to thank my Mother, Father, family and girlfriend for all of their support, Joshua Kopac for helping me start this company and keeping me on track with everything, Harry Christy and Aaron Randi who are my filmers and good friends,Tucker Vander Wyden for taking awesome pictures, Justin Griffith and Anthony DaSilva over at Enclave Skateshop in New Haven, CT, Jacques Bartels with Easter Island Skateboards, and all of my friends and supporters who have helped me through the way.
Interviewed by: Frankie Lopes
