Juneteenth & the Hustle for Economic Liberation

🖤 FREE TO BUILD: HONORING JUNETEENTH THROUGH BLACK ENTREPRENEURSHIP

From The Desk of The Million Dollar Sis

Juneteenth is more than just a holiday, it’s a reminder. A reckoning. A revival. It marks the day June 19, 1865, when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas were finally informed that they were free… over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Freedom delayed, but not denied. And while our ancestors were legally unshackled that day, the truth is, their access to economic freedom remained locked away for generations. Land ownership was blocked, jobs were withheld, and wealth was hoarded.

But here’s the thing about us: we build anyway.

That’s why Juneteenth isn't just a commemoration of freedom from chains. It’s a call to action for economic liberation. And in this modern era, owning a business is one of the most powerful forms of resistance and resilience a Black person can take on. Every sale, every client, every brand we build? That’s us rewriting the script. That’s us taking up space in a world that once tried to erase us.

And let’s talk numbers. Because Black women? We are the moment. According to recent reports, Black women are the fastest-growing demographic of entrepreneurs in the U.S., starting businesses at four times the national average. But you know what? That stat doesn’t shock me. Because we’ve always made a way out of no way.

As for me? My journey into entrepreneurship wasn’t cute and curated, it was born from necessity. I’m a U.S. Army veteran, a mom, and a multi-business owner who came from a line of women who made things happen. I grew up knowing that if I wanted freedom, not just financially, but spiritually, mentally, and generationally, I had to create it myself. I couldn’t wait for someone to give me a seat at the table. I built the whole damn room.

So let me say this loud and clear:

Entrepreneurship is a modern-day declaration of freedom.

It’s about owning your schedule, your value, and your impact. It’s the ability to decide your own future, to employ others in your community, and to pass something meaningful down to your children. It’s not just about money—it’s about power. And every Black entrepreneur is a freedom fighter in a new war: the war for equity, legacy, and liberation.

And since we're talking legacy, what's your story?

I want to hear it. The world needs to hear it. That’s why I created Boss Talk, a video podcast where entrepreneurs like you come on to share the truth behind your business. No fluff, just real stories from real people doing real work. I record every Tuesday between 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM EST, and the interviews are completely free. If you’ve got something powerful to say, I’ve got the mic waiting on you.

This Juneteenth, I want you to truly think about what freedom looks like for you. Not just waving a flag or reposting a quote, but living it. Owning your voice. Starting that business. Charging your worth. Releasing the fear. Supporting another Black-owned brand. Investing in the future you want your children to see.

Because we’re not just free, we’re Million Dollar Free.

With love, fire, and legacy,
Deanna “The Million Dollar Sis” Dias
Your Business Bestie. Your Reminder. Your Evidence.

👇🏾 Click Here to Schedule Your Boss Talk Interview 👇🏾

How to Host a Private, Intimate Event to Elevate Your Brand (My Proven Steps for Success)

Hey Million Dollar Society! 🌟

It’s your girl, Deanna, aka The Million Dollar Sis and your favorite business bestie. Today, I’m sharing the behind-the-scenes magic of how I hosted an intimate, private event that not only brought my brand to life but also deepened connections with my audience in ways I never imagined.

If you’ve ever thought about hosting an event for your business but didn’t know where to start, let me show you how I did it, step by step.

Step 1: Set Clear Goals

First things first, get crystal clear on what you want your event to accomplish. Are you looking to increase brand awareness, boost sales, or connect with your current and future customers?

For me, it was all about reconnecting with my existing customers while introducing my boutique, Bangolz, to new faces. I also wanted feedback on my latest pieces so I could refine my vision.

 Step 2: Know Your Audience

You don’t need a crowd of hundreds – you need the right people in the room. Think of those who will benefit most from your brand and who’ll appreciate the experience you’re curating.

At my event, I invited entrepreneurs, corporate queens, brunching beauties, a photographer, and some local influencers who I knew would vibe with my brand. That’s it – small, but mighty.

Step 3: Choose a Venue That Reflects Your Brand

Let’s talk location! I went with a cozy, modern art gallery. It was avant-garde, stylish, and had a decorated piano that became the centerpiece of the night. The space was intimate and comfortable – exactly the vibe I wanted to create.

One tip: always think about accessibility. Everyone should feel welcome and able to fully enjoy the experience.

Step 4: Craft an Engaging Agenda

No boring lectures here. I made sure my event felt personal and interactive. I kicked it off by sharing my story: where Bangolz came from, my mission, and what I envision for the future.

After that, my models showed off the new pieces, and we opened up the floor for questions and feedback. We ended the night with networking, some good eats, and a mimosa or two. 🍾

 Step 5: Make It Feel Exclusive

We all love to feel special, and that’s exactly what I wanted for my guests. Everyone got a $20 gift certificate to spend at Bangolz, plus a surprise gift that was actually useful, not just filler.

It turned the event into a real VIP experience.

Step 6: Follow Up and Build Relationships

Don’t let the connection stop when the night ends! I always send a personalized thank-you email to every guest, and you should, too. Include some highlights from the event and remind them of any exclusive deals or next steps.

That follow-up has helped me turn one-time event guests into loyal customers and even brand ambassadors.

Final Thoughts

Hosting a private, intimate event isn’t about being perfect – it’s about creating real connections. When people feel valued and seen, they’ll keep coming back and supporting your business in ways that last.

So, Million Dollar Society, what’s the first step you’re going to take to plan your event? Drop it in the comments below. Let’s hype each other up and get those ideas flowing!

Until next time, keep building, keep shining, and keep showing up for yourself and your brand.

Love,
Deanna ✨