Eunique Jones Gibson has become a beacon of inspiration in the world of entrepreneurship, particularly for Black women in the workplace. As the founder and CEO of several successful ventures, including the inclusive baby brand Happy Hues and the viral party game CultureTags, Gibson demonstrates how business, family, and culture can thrive together. Her journey is a testament to the power of passion, creativity, and the unwavering support of her family.
A Creative Path to Social Impact
Gibson’s entrepreneurial journey didn’t begin in the baby aisle or with family-centric products. Her initial foray into social impact started with a camera and a deep frustration over the Trayvon Martin case. In 2012, she created the photo awareness campaign I AM Trayvon Martin, which quickly resonated with people globally. This project paved the way for Because of Them We Can, a portrait series celebrating the Black heroes who have shaped history. Gibson’s creative efforts weren’t just artistic— they were powerful, sparking social change through imagery.
“I just kept saying yes. It was about embracing every opportunity that came my way,” Gibson said in an interview on the Mompreneurs podcast. This mentality led her to launch Culture Brands, a multifaceted company dedicated to empowering Black culture. It includes CultureTags, a popular game designed to bring people together through shared cultural experiences.
The Inspiration Behind Happy Hues
Though her earlier work focused on social justice and cultural awareness, it was Gibson’s experience as a mother that sparked the creation of Happy Hues, her inclusive baby brand. The brand’s mission is simple: create products that reflect diverse families, something Gibson felt was lacking in mainstream baby products.
Inspired by her daughter Sage, Gibson was determined to fill a gap in the market. Traditional potty training products featuring characters like Cinderella and Snow White didn’t resonate with her children, so she created alternatives that represented them. Happy Hues products, such as the Shea Butter-infused Big-ups® training pants and Wipe Me Downs™ baby wipes, offer a refreshing change from the usual offerings.
“Kids have been programmed to believe that these characters are the default. They have nothing to represent them as they’re getting their sense of agency and independence—and that is flawed,” Gibson explains. Her focus is on empowering children of all backgrounds to see themselves reflected in the products they use.
Family Support is the Foundation
One of the secrets behind Gibson’s success is the unwavering support of her family. As a mother of three and a wife of 16 years, Gibson emphasizes the importance of keeping her family involved in her business ventures. She credits her family for helping her manage the demanding balance of entrepreneurship and motherhood.
“The family is tapped 100% in on the vision,” Gibson says. She has worked hard to ensure that her children and husband understand and support the shared goals of her businesses. For Gibson, family is at the heart of everything she does. “I can tie every big idea to one of my kids,” she shares. “Being a mother has been the greatest inspiration when it comes to the things that I have been able to create or put into the universe.”
Building a Strong Team and Vision for the Future
Gibson’s leadership extends beyond her immediate family. She emphasizes the importance of building a strong, reliable team to support her vision. As her businesses continue to grow, she’s been able to step back slightly, allowing her team to take on more responsibility. This has freed her up to focus on long-term planning and strategy.
“I’ve worked really hard on hiring great people and empowering them to lead,” she explains. While she’s still active in the day-to-day operations, she also spends time refining her vision for the future. This forward-thinking approach ensures that Gibson’s businesses not only thrive in the present but are set up for success in the years to come.
The Road Ahead: Empowering More Black Entrepreneurs
Looking to the future, Gibson is dedicated to continuing her family’s legacy of entrepreneurship. She credits iconic figures like Cathy Hughes and Gloria Nauden for paving the way for her own success and is committed to providing opportunities for other Black entrepreneurs to follow in her footsteps.
