Signature Brand HTX

By Terry L. Watson

Photos Provided By The Signature Brand HTX

His company is called Signature Brands HTX.

Calvin Williams of Houston, TX, has turned his creative talent into a thriving clothing line. The Signature Brand HTX is a 100% Black and Veteran-owned company specializing in high-quality apparel and events. It is licensed and registered with CLC, Learfield IMG College (a collegiate licensing company for the NCAA).

Calvin says his brand is all about promoting the excellence of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. In doing so, they presently carry licenses for Alabama State, Alcorn State University, the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Bethune- Cookman University, Fayetteville State University, Florida A&M University, Grambling State University, Hampton University, Howard University, Jackson State University, Mississippi Valley State University, Morehouse College, Prairie View and A&M University, Savannah State University, and Southern University. Calvin points out that a portion of sales benefits each school. The Signature Brand also produces material for high schools, Greek organizations, affinity groups, and churches.

Born in Monroe, LA, Calvin is a husband and father, and his family is members of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church in Houston. He is a loving and caring individual and leads his family as such. “ I love traveling and watching my kids grow. I also love designing and creating apparel for my company,” he says.

Besides being the face of Signature Brand, HTX, Calvin has 23 years of government service. He is a 2004 graduate (cum laude) of Grambling State University. There, Calvin earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice. He is also an active member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and was initiated into the Delta Sigma Chapter (Grambling State University) in 2002. Calvin is also a life member and current Vice President of Grambling University National Alumni Association and a candidate for the Office of President.

So how did Calvin begin? He shares the foundation of his employment was challenged during the 2018 government shutdown. This was during President Barack Obama’s administration. Calvin decided to put his designing gifts and event skills to use during that time. “My goal was to create a legacy for my family; one that would allow them to benefit financially,” he shares. “I started with a press machine, Cricut and blank shirts. Our initial approach was to create inspirational t-shirts with an empowering message regarding faith and black empowerment. We then created an HBCU shirt design, which generated a buzz, which grew into more requests for HBCU design apparel.”

Calvin says he enjoys designing and creating products that everyone wants. “More than anything, I am grateful for the vision God shared with me to affect our black colleges and universities positively. There’s no greater feeling than to walk into an HBCU event and see fellow alumni wearing your brand.”

The Signature brand prides itself in producing quality products at affordable prices. “Oftentimes the overhead to produce, store, and ship changes. Those occurrences can have an overall effect on profit margins. Nevertheless, we continue to scale to ensure our products are top notch, so we realize a profit,” Calvin shares.

As stated, Calvin is a family man, and he always puts their needs first. “I often think about the lessons I want to teach my kids and wonder how I can assist them in life. One thing that inspires me is building generational wealth for them. I would love for my kids to continue the legacy of the Signature Brand; however, in reality, my genuine desire is for them not to feel forced to do things or work a job out of a need for money. The wealth we build perhaps pays for college, or they may decide to invest in their own business or future investments. I only hope they will be inspired to pass on the wealth for future generations to come.”

Calvin shares that many people and life experiences have shaped him into who he is today. He thanks God for surrounding him with great supporters, family, and friends who have pushed him to be the best version of himself.

The message he sends to others who may follow a path similar to the one he has traveled is compassionate. “Starting the Signature Brand has been one of the most rewarding experiences because we have taken the next step. One of the most important elements in your business will be developing your business plan. The best way to accomplish any business or personal goal is to write out every possible step it takes to achieve the goal and then order those steps by what needs to happen first. Do not give up on your business if things take longer than expected to develop. The point is always to remain consistent and always take the next step,” he says.

As the world appears to be on the upside of the Covid 19 pandemic, Calvin says The Signature Brand will continue to grow and make an impact within the HBCU community. “Our ultimate goal is to open a storefront in which we will specialize in HBCU, Divine 9, and local High School apparel. The Signature Brand will become the internet’s most sought-after brand, known for top quality original varsity apparel. We also plan to add full-service components to allow our customers to personalize their orders. Additionally, we will expand to include an in-stock selection of Signature Brand blank t-shirts, sweaters, and hoodies.

To learn more about The Signature Brand HTX, please visit their website.