When I started the silk screening business I followed my personal four steps to success; 1) set up business; 2) flood the street with merchandise; 3) build media contacts; and 4) focus on searching for financial investors.  Today, with my growth and experience in the business I've placed the importance of financial investors as first.  This was something I had to learn for myself.  In putting together my Press Kit and first catalogue, all the expenses were paid out of my own pocket.  At times this was a financial and emotional drain. 

 

      During one of these moments I made a visit my Uncle Victor (who is Pastor Grisby of Central Baptist Church in the Hill District).  I sat and shared with him my feelings, second guessing myself, asking if  I made the right choice, was the struggle worth it, and will it work?  That evening my Uncle blessed me with words of encouragement which immediately uplifted my spirit, and I've never looked back.

 

      Since that evening I have focused on surrounding myself with a support team of like minded and goal orientated people.  Those who are experienced, knowledgeable in business finance, marketing/promotion and public relations, a team who respects my leadership and ability to lead Michael Edwards, Inc. into the future.

 

      Canard has used various media venues in the promotion of his clothing line. He has been a requested guest on several local talk shows such as WAMO AM's Happenings and the Jonas Chaney Show.  In 2003 Michael Edwards Urban Classic clothing line was nominated and the winner of the 2003 Urban Industry Music Award for Designer of the Year, and the award show was held in Washington, D.C.

 

      One of the requirements for nomination was for each designer to showcase eight complete outfits in a fashion show at the awards show.  At this time the Michael Edwards line consisted of only T-Shirts, but with his keen fashion designer sense, Canard worked with his seamstress and designed at the moment's notice outfits which included a sweat suit, and dresses.  Needless to say his quick thinking and creative thoughts, and determination to succeed, made him a success and a winner.  Talk about thinking and doing Big!

 

      From his success at the Urban Industry Music Award event, Michael Edwards, Inc. worked with local Pittsburgh radio station 96.1 and became a sponsor of the 2003 Rock the Mic Tour, with headliners Jay-Z, 50 Cents, Busta Rhymes, Snoop Dog, as well as, Missy Elliot, Sean Paul and Fabolous, and soon after the City of Pittsburgh awarded ME with a Proclamation naming July 2, 2003 as Michael Edwards Designer Fashion Day.

 

      One of Canard's beliefs is to work hard and stay true to his self and his goals. He often says, Things fall into place naturally. When one door opens, it leads to another door which opens.

 

      You can say doors are opening for the Michael Edwards clothing line; he has been featured in The New Pittsburgh Courier, Pittsburgh Magazine, Allegheny Business Times, Brotha Ash Productions, Genesis Magazine and Go Magazine.

 

      Not only is he expanding his promotional range, from meeting new contacts through networking, he has been able to sit down at the table with people who are interested in investing in his business.  Canard views each networking opportunity small or large as an important one, as he believes in the practice of constantly networking with people from all venues of the business sector.