Meet Cris Dorman, ’06, who launched Rock My Bow Tie—popularizing this classy men’s accessory among “everyday gentlemen” by selling trendy, reasonably priced varieties. The Indianapolis entrepreneur sat down to answer a few questions about business and his time at Ball State.
What inspired you to start a bow tie business?
My business partner and I liked bow ties, but we didn’t like the average $50 price tag. I mean it can’t be that much for that little of fabric, right? So, we wanted to make bow ties more popular and accessible at a lower price point.
What types of bow ties do you make and sell?
We primarily sell trendy bow ties that incorporate popular colors and styles. We’re constantly studying different types of fabrics and going to trade shows to be on the cutting-edge. Our goal is to dive into more customization to be able to sell bow ties that are memorable. We want to partner with fraternities and sororities to create bow ties with their symbols and icons. When there is a Ball State bow tie, we’d love for it to have come from Rock My Bow Tie.
Describe the layout of your office.
It’s similar to the classrooms I learned in at Ball State. It’s an open concept feel that creates an open dialogue. Instead of being separated into cubicles, we can more easily share our ideas and collaborate. I wanted to replicate the environment that I had while working with Cardinal Communications.
How did Ball State prepare you to be an entrepreneur?
“Although I wasn’t an entrepreneurship major, I thought in an entrepreneurial way. Ball State instilled in me a vigor and entrepreneurial mindset.
What type of bowtie would you like to create that you don’t have currently?
As a proud alumnus, I’d love to create a Ball State bow tie that has the Cardinal on it.