You Matter Stories was founded in August of 2016, when dreaming fashion designer Betsy met dreaming fashion photographer Stephanie Harford (mainly known as Stephanie Ann). Putting their dreams together, they originally agreed to collaborate somehow. That grew quickly as Stephanie envisioned something beyond dreams and passions, but rather a career. Speaking to Betsy one afternoon over lunch, she shared her vision and ideas and Betsy was quickly on board. Betsy's previous designs were proof of her true passion and Stephanie was determined to make both their dreams into reality and pursue a fashion business, calling it "You Matter Clothing," a title inspired by personal life events. But something was missing.

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    With a bit of coaching and start-up pitching, Stephanie learned how to properly focus on the important aspects of a new business and continuously had to answer the question, "Why?" The focus on clothing was failing and no one could understand what they were selling. But then an epiphany hit Stephanie and she redirected the entire new business idea to focus on stories instead of clothing. Her truest passion when it came to photography wasn't just the fashion side of it, but it was the storytelling side of it. She had that in mind for the business, but the name (You Matter Clothing) and focus was misleading. 

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    By the end of 2016, You Matter Stories became the new name and their clothing line would merely be a puzzle piece to the whole picture. Launched in May 2017, You Matter Stories LLC is now on their way to building a reputation by promoting advocacy, empathy, and empowerment through fashion, photography and videography. Their slogan, "It's your turn to shine," refers to shedding light on invisible stories in order to change the world. Betsy discontinued the business and Stephanie went on a