INDIANAPOLIS — A family-owned apparel and home goods business in downtown Indianapolis is launching new items for the 2024 NBA All-Star Weekend.
WDRFA, which stands for “We Don't Run From Adversity,” unveiled its biggest collection on Saturday with dozens of new items ahead of the big weekend.
Vanessa Soto
WDRFA co-owner Gary Patterson said the company released 40 items because it will be the first time in nearly 40 years that Indianapolis will host an All-Star Game.
“Being able to create 40 products at a time, between apparel and new home goods like candles, is so exciting,” added co-owner Mike Gillis.
In addition to what's already on sale this week, WDRFA will be releasing exclusive items during All-Star Weekend.
WRTV
“Next week we'll be making 10 more pieces. We're collaborating with Saint Avenue, another local brand from Indiana,” Gillis said.
“Being an All-Star, we focus on all things sports. We have letterman jackets, pendants, basketballs, T-shirts, hoodies, socks, and more. We have a lot of different unique items,” Patterson added.
WDRFA is a Black-owned business that has been in business for eight years but only set up shop last summer.
Vanessa Soto
They're ready to bring in people from all over the world next weekend.
“We've worked hard to provide a quality product, so we're very excited. Anytime you get attention or traffic increases, you want to be ready for it. I think we’re really ready,” Patterson said.
Gillis says customers love the message behind the business.
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“We Don't Break Through Adversity” can mean a million different things to a million different people, but by using this acronym we are able to reach more people. “It's possible and Black-owned is a message that resonates in many ways,” Gillis added.
The store, located in the former Stutts Building on Capitol Avenue, will launch new items in collaboration with St. Avenue on Friday, February 16th from 7 to 10 p.m.
Click here for store details.
