Houston Apparel Co.

06/19/2026

Being a first-generation U.S.-born citizen on my dad’s side is something I don’t often stop to reflect on, but recently, I was given a powerful reminder.

I had the opportunity to attend Kattya Distefano's World Cup watch party for Mexico’s first game of the 2026 World Cup, and it was an unforgettable experience.

My grandmother immigrated to the United States when my dad was just a baby, believing in the greater opportunities this country could offer her family.

She lived a modest life but poured everything into supporting her children’s education and future. Because of her sacrifice, my dad, Gus Alvarado- Sr., became a very successful petroleum engineer, and he passed down that same work ethic and belief in possibility to me.

He has also been my biggest supporter in building Houston Apparel Co., a dream I would not have been able to pursue without him.

Fast forward to today, and Kattya & Co. is one of our valued clients. We have outfitted her entire team, from t-shirts and hats to belt bags and more. Seeing her team wearing Houston Apparel Co. gear while cheering on Mexico, the country my dad was born in, was truly surreal. It was a full circle moment I will never forget.

I am also grateful to be working with so many Houston businesses caught up in the excitement of the FIFA World Cup in Houston. It has been incredible to be a small part of that energy across the city.

My grandmother’s courage and sacrifice created a legacy that continues to live on in me and in my family. Being able to celebrate that heritage while also celebrating my company’s growth alongside amazing clients like Kattya means everything.

Thank you, Kattya, for the invitation and for creating a space that brought community, culture, and celebration together.

And as I write this, Mexico is playing Korea, and I am watching with pride! 🇲🇽

❤️

Venessa

p.s. If you love my Mexico merch, message me to find out how you can get merch made for your watch party guests.

06/03/2026

Happy Global Running Day! 🏃🏻‍♀️

Throwback to the very first half marathon I ever ran, the Aramco Houston Half Marathon 2025. It was cold, windy, and race day kicked off with temps in the 30s…cold, but perfect for running long distance! 🥶

When I started Houston Apparel Co., I never imagined how much it would prepare me to push through challenges, not just in business, but in my personal fitness journey too. That race was a major milestone for me: I ran all 13.3 miles non-stop and crushed my goal time. 💪🏽

Since then, running has truly become part of who I am and what I need to feel happy and healthy. I’ve completed:

✅ 2 half marathons
✅ 2 Mud Girls races
✅ Several 75+ mile relay races
✅ Countless 5Ks
✅ And the day after my 2nd half marathon, I signed up for my first full marathon Chevron Houston Marathon 2027!😬🎉

Oh, and I recently ran my fastest mile ever! 🙌🏽

I hope you celebrate today with a run, or even a walk. Taking the first step in anything new can feel scary, but just take it, you never know where it might lead you.

Post a pic of you in the comments with your proudest running moment or how you're celebrating 2026!

🩷
Venessa

06/02/2026

06/01/2026

We couldn’t be more proud to share that our co-founder and owner has been recognized as one of Houston’s Influential Women! 🎉

At Houston Apparel Co., we’ve always known Venessa Homewood's passion goes far beyond the business.

From day one, her focus has been on delivering quality work, building genuine relationships, and helping brands tell their story through thoughtful branded apparel and promotional products.

This recognition means so much to our team because it reflects what we see every day.

The trust our clients place in us.

The collaborative spirit and creativity that drives our work.

And the leadership that continues to challenge, support, and inspire everyone.

Our industry thrives on creativity, resilience, and strong relationships, and we are proud to be part of that every single day under Venessa's guidance.

Her vision pushes us to think bigger, bring fresh ideas to the table, and grow together as a team.

Please join us in celebrating this well deserved recognition. We are so excited for what lies ahead.

The future is female led, and the best is yet to come. ✨

Recognition

04/28/2026

Today, we had the privilege of supporting not one, but two local organizations, a small business and a nonprofit, and our hearts are full. 💞

Both are doing amazing work to serve our community, and it reminded us why supporting local truly matters. When you invest in small businesses, they’re able to pour right back into others. It creates a ripple effect of generosity that strengthens us all.

Imagine the impact if more companies led with that mindset. Small acts can spark big waves of community growth.

Through this opportunity, Houston Apparel Co. hosted an open coffee bar and sweet treats for teachers and staff as they head into the final stretch of the school year. ☕ It may have seemed like a simple gesture, but it meant so much and gave us even more in return.

Teachers truly are the backbone of our community. 👩‍🏫👨‍🏫 Supporting them is an investment in our future. When local businesses thrive, Houston thrives. Giving back is at the core of who we are, and every branded product we create is another chance to spread kindness.

We’re grateful to be part of a community that values connection, generosity, and support. Let’s keep lifting one another up. Small businesses and nonprofits are the heart of Houston, and they deserve our support every single day.

How are you pouring into your community today? 💙

Westlake Lutheran Academy

04/22/2026

Earth Day is not about perfect recycling. ♻️ It’s about staying out of landfills longer.

Think about the branded merchandise you give away. Are they destined for the trash? Would you throw it away or truly use it?

Reusable mugs, water bottles, and tote bags are more than just eco-friendly. They become part of daily routines.

Every time someone uses them, they reinforce your brand. They also reduce waste.

Sustainability doesn’t mean everything has to be recyclable. It means products stay useful for as long as possible.

A durable, well designed item can last years. It becomes a part of someone’s life.

That’s real impact. Less waste, more brand visibility.💡

This Earth Day, think beyond the usual. Choose merchandise that lasts. 🌱

Your brand can be a part of the solution.

What’s your favorite reusable product to give away? 💚 💙

10/25/2025

We love our clients! 💙 S&G's Logistics & Trucking Solutions

New swag landed this evening, just in time for the cooler temperatures. A big thank you again to Houston Apparel Co. 🫶

10/04/2025

Check out our Founders Jada Powell and Venessa Homewood review the historic redfish_lodge!!

https://youtu.be/Wn0jXZxTLyI?si=lIYMOM1S-cfLXxBM

09/06/2025

Check out our Co-Founders Jada Powell and Venessa Homewood as they review oxsafari as an officialoggn Special Feature. 🦓🦘

Ox Ranch Safari is nestled in hills of Uvalde, Texas and is perfect for a corporate retreat or a family vacation. There is truly something for everyone! 🦏🦛

https://youtu.be/OOxUhi4ZDNw

Jada and Venessa (The Apparel Girls) tour the Texas Serengeti at Ox Hunting Ranch. Sweeping landscapes, exotic animals and great food.Learn more at https://o...