We had the good fortune of connecting with Byron Kouris and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Byron, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
DAWN X represents so much to Alexsondra and I. Especially, our slogan, “BE THE VARIABLE” which is us in a nutshell.

The dawn is most commonly referred to as the first appearance of light before sunrise. Therefore the ‘DAWN’ in DAWN X symbolizes hope to us. That little bit of light at the end of the tunnel. The idea that each day brings us a fresh start and a new opportunity to be the best version of ourselves possible.

The ‘X’, as comedic as it may sound, is a reference to my middle school algebra class. I struggled so much growing up with variables. However, as I got older, completed my education, and grew to understand math/science and their respective purposes more, I fell in love with variables. They are these, at times, unpredictable things that help guide us in problem solving, experimentation, and research. Variables, and unusual/unpredictable people are responsible for some of the most incredible discoveries of our time!

Being a variable can be difficult though. Judgement is always there. Especially when you do not conform to expectations of society, your colleagues, or even your own family.

My fiancee Sondra and I really feel like being unpredictable, being different, especially in a world that at times can feel so fixated on normalcy, mediocrity, and passiveness. It is so important to break negative cycles, in order to make the most of every ‘dawn’ that life brings us.

DAWN X broke my fiancee Alexsondra and I’s cycle. We had always wanted to start a business of some kind, and we absolutely love clothes. We always had that creative itch.

I know this is a lot, but I hope this answers the question well, haha!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
DAWN X is a massive passion of mine yes, but another is education. I am a Higher Education Professional at Central Arizona College, when i’m not moonlighting as an avid ‘designer’ haha.

I started my higher education journey as community college student at CAC, completed my undergraduate studies at Arizona State University’s WP Carey School of Business, and my graduate education (MEd) at Northern Arizona University.

I wasn’t much of a star student growing up, but I really hit my stride in community college because I had such a powerful experience there. I made strong connections, met my love Alexsondra, and found so much pleasure in participating in clubs/activities. There were certainly a great deal of challenges along the way, the COVID pandemic standing at the forefront of all of them, but with the support system I was lucky to have in the form of my professors, friends, club mates, and my fiancee’s loving family I navigated those challenges well, but not without turbulence of course.

DAWN X has been the latest chapter in my journey that I am so excited about, and I feel like a proud parent as I have had the privilege to watch it grow and evolve. I find it so humbling as I see how we operate currently, and how we have steadily raised the bar on design, fulfillment, and even user experience on our website & SHOP app.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting Pinal County, Arizona, I’d make sure they experienced the best of what this area has to offer. We’d start by fueling up with a hearty breakfast at San Tan Café in Florence, known for its delicious southwestern-style dishes and friendly atmosphere. Then, we’d head to the Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park, where they could marvel at the stunning desert flora and learn about the region’s rich botanical diversity.

For lunch, we’d grab some authentic Mexican cuisine at Mi Amigo Ricardo in Casa Grande, followed by a scenic drive through the Sonoran Desert National Monument, where they can take in the breathtaking landscapes and maybe even spot some wildlife. In the evening, we’d unwind with craft cocktails at The Farish House in Casa Grande, a historic gem with a cozy ambiance perfect for catching up and enjoying the local scene. Throughout the week, we’d also explore the historic town of Florence, visit the Casa Grande Ruins National Monument to learn about ancient Hohokam culture, and maybe even take a hot air balloon ride over the picturesque desert landscape for a truly unforgettable experience. With its blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, Pinal County offers endless opportunities for fun and adventure!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to dedicate this shout out to my incredible partner, Alexsondra. She is my fiancee, and we have been together for years. She has always supported me, and has been a huge contributor to DAWN X, the creative process, and she has been instrumental in getting DAWN X to where it is today. Thank you for your support throughout everything! I can only hope and pray that we continue to grow, and get our names out there into the world, so I can sing your praises to a larger audience!

Website: www.dawnx.us

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dawnxusa/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/byronkouris/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556733185293

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