We had the good fortune of connecting with Marquita Rene Davis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Marquita Rene, we’d love for you to start things off by telling us something about your industry that we and others not in the industry might be unaware of?
I think the one thing that outsiders aren’t aware about the yoga industry it’s a practice! All the yogis they see on social media and/or in classes doing things they’re amazed by or think they can’t do. It was the same for that yogi. Yoga is a practice. You aren’t just magically flexible. Your body needs time to develop and the only way that happens is with time.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a graduate of Florida State University, with a degree in Recreation and Leisure Services Adminstration with a minor in Business and Marketing. I got my start with MKTG as a Brand Ambassador with brands like Captain Morgan, Jose Cuervo and Crown Royal working my way up in the company to when I graduated I was able to secure a full time position. When I moved to LA I started working with LA Fashion Week as a Marketing Coordinator and still continue to today. Now, focusing on designer brands, activations and VIPs.

During the pandemic quarantine I found myself wanting to explore my passions while tucked away and worked toward my yoga certifications. I became a 500 hour registered yoga teacher, 85 hour registered pre/postnatal yoga teacher and earned my certificate in yin yoga. Black Velveteen Yoga became my brand and focus; as quarantine ended I lauched my candle business Black Velveteen Co. I make cleanly dyed black virgin coconut & soy wax candles, scented with essential oils and clean fragrances topped with raw natural crystals. Using my experiences and skills from my corporate life and invest in myself and advancement.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Sunday Runyon Canyon
Mama Shelter

Monday
Santa Monica Beach
Coco Ichibanya
Sofitel Jazz Night

Tuesday
Malibu Beach
Kashira
Explore Koreatown

Wednesday
Venice Beach
Astroyoga & Chakra Sound Bath (my class)
Seven Grand

Thursday
Astroyoga & Chakra Sound Bath (my class)
EP & LP

Friday
Pan Pacific Park Picnic
Wally’s Beverly Hills

Saturday
LA Fashion District
Bottega Louie
Highlight Room

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to give a shout out to my parents. They have always been a constant inspiration in my life. Even though they both were in the military, they always made time to follow their passions. My Dad’s passion is music and basketball and my mother is super creative from her cooking to making purses. Creativity runs through my blood. The was no shortage of tough love but highs and lows I have a solid relationship with them and I owe a part of my success to them.

Website: www.blackvelveteenyoga.com

Instagram: @blackvelveteenyoga @blkvelveteen @blackvelveteenco

Facebook: www.facebook.com/blackvelvetgang

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSocal is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.