David Dewer Career Do Over... Turning passion into profits!

To the left: David Dewer in one of his first ever designs from the band Poison in 2004

Sitting in a workroom, feathers and gems everywhere. There is the smell of hot glue wafting through the air. The phone rings and negotiations are taking place about fees. This is now the life of David Dewer, one of the newest and most creative designers on the Carnival scene.

Growing up in Diego Martin in north west Trinidad, the middle child of three, David always had an artistic flair; infusing color and creativity into everything he touched. Like many children of the 1990’s, moving from “Kidde's” carnival into adult mas, his love for the atmosphere on the road Carnival Monday and Tuesday was electric.

In the last 8 years, David began creating his own specialized designs to wear on the road. His stand out costumes caught the eye of many masqueraders, and more importantly carnival band owners. In 2015, his presentation of two design options for Trinidad’s large band YUMA was sensational. The two costumes were the stand out sections that year. Completely different designs keeping within the theme of the band.

One of David Dewer's first concepts as a carnival designers for Trinidad Carnival band YUMA

This was the start of something brand new; David was able to transition his passion and love for carnival into an avenue for revenue. Since his first designs, he has become a key creative component up the Caribbean, Miami, Toronto and off course a staple in Trinidad. Even branching out with “Monday” wear catering to various size clientele. Some key points he follows to convert his passion to profits are:

1.      Observe. Do research and you’ll see the valuable skill set needed to take your passion to profits. Ask yourself: What does this industry need right now? What is unique about my approach that’s seldom done?

David Dewer branded logo

2.      Brand. Now that you’ve put your original spin on a creative role, it’s time to set up your brand. Branding is a group of ideas and approaches behind your work that must be cemented tangibly through card, logo, start building your social media channels. Begin with LinkedIn and enter as much information as possible.

3.      Related. Now is the time to plan. Map out the dollars and cents; dictate how much you need to earn in your first six months. It's a good idea to plan for a creative slump by having an alternate and consistent stream of income.

4.      Connect. Relationship building is key. Start within your own personal connections and find like-minded creatives who may be able to assist you or be interested in your business. A simple announcement via a status update and email directing your friends and acquaintances to your new business will lay the foundations of your following.

2015 Frontline design for the Carnival band YUMA. Designed by David Dewer

2014 male section leaders for the band YUMA. Designed by David Dewer

2017 Monday wear. Designed by David Dewer

2017 Frontline designs for the band YUMA. Designed by David Dewer

So while David is busy planning his Carnival 2018 designs, consulting with Monday wear and getting ready to make his mark in new territories. He’s expanding his passion and turning it into profits. Interested in his designs? Follow him on IG - Caribeboi