It was an honor being featured in Shoutout Ohio's publication highlighting our small business. See the published story HERE, or read below.
We had the good fortune of connecting with Kelly Allen and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Kelly, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Deciding to start my own business was a personal journey fueled by the desire to supplement our family’s one income, while still being available and present with our 4 kids at home. My husband has been an educator, which has taught me the important and necessary skills of family budgeting and mindful spending. Living in California isn’t cheap, especially living on one income, and especially supporting a family of 6. The idea struck me when I realized how much I loved the confidence boost that a cute pair of earrings gave me during simple errands.
Noticing my kids’ teachers also sporting adorable earrings made me think about creating a space where teachers, who, like me, might be on a budget, could find affordable and festive earrings for different occasions. It felt like a niche market that I could tap into, catering to the practical needs of my community.
The decision to sell earrings wasn’t just about business for me; it was about creating a family-oriented venture. With only one daughter who was 14 at the time, I wanted something that we could enjoy doing together. This way, not only would it provide her with valuable insights into entrepreneurship, but it would also strengthen our bond. In fact, our business is named after us both. Her name is Mackenzie and I’m Kelly so our business name came from that. Kelly Mack.
Embarking on this entrepreneurial journey meant delving into market research to understand the preferences of my target audience, exploring potential suppliers, and figuring out the best channels to sell our earrings. Considering the rise of e-commerce, I saw an opportunity to reach a broader audience online.
Starting a business involves risk, but the prospect of creating something I’m passionate about, providing affordable options for teachers, and sharing the journey with my daughter make it all worthwhile. It’s not light work, though! It has come with many painstaking hours trying to figure out all the processes that need to be in place for a small online business to function well. It’s not easy being a one, and sometimes two, person business. There is a lot that goes into a business that I hadn’t thought of when I first started. Marketing. Product photography. Order fulfillment. Inventory management. Social Media. And that’s just to name a few!
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
What sets my business apart from others is the personal touch we bring to affordable and stylish earrings, especially tailored for teachers. I take immense pride and excitement in not just offering products but in creating a community where teachers can find budget-friendly yet fashionable accessories for different occasions.
The uniqueness lies in understanding the specific needs of teachers on a budget, and it’s not just about selling earrings; it’s about contributing to their confidence and joy during various events. Building meaningful connections with customers, particularly teachers, adds a personal dimension to my business that I find deeply rewarding. I receive messages from customers who are delighted with the fun and joy their simple pair of earrings brings to their day. Their students look forward to seeing what new or favorite pair they are wearing that day.
As for how I got to where I am today business-wise, it’s been a journey, for sure! I started out hand-making all of my earrings. I had never done it before but I was determined to learn. I look back on my first pairs of earrings and it fills me with pride seeing where I started and how far I’ve come. I had to switch gears to finding suppliers for my earrings when I couldn’t keep up with demand. I have also had to pivot in my strategies for marketing. I utilized my website but also found great success in online marketplaces. Until recently the marketplaces were my primary source for sales. The main marketplace I was using unexpectedly shut down one day and through other sources we as sellers found out they declared bankruptcy. It’s just one of the ebbs and flows of business, I suppose. Seeing what works, using that while it does work, then learning to adjust and pivot when it doesn’t work anymore.
My commitment to learning and growth, coupled with a dedication to my desire to succeed, has played a crucial role in my business. I’ve learned lessons about myself that reach far beyond what my business brings in. My mom has an entrepreneurial spirit as well. She inspired me to keep going or learn to make adjustments when necessary. Giving up isn’t an option, but making adjustments or changing directions is all about the journey of business.
I want people to understand that, at its core, my business is about enhancing confidence and joy. It’s about providing an accessible and stylish option for teachers who, like me, are navigating a budget-conscious lifestyle. The earrings we sell aren’t just accessories; they’re a way to express individuality and add a touch of festivity to everyday moments.
Our commitment goes beyond the transaction; it’s about building a supportive community. I want the world to know that when they choose our earrings, they’re not just buying a product – they’re becoming part of a community that values affordability, style, and the unique charm that comes with each pair.
Additionally, I am proud to involve my daughter in this venture, making it a family-oriented business that fosters learning, creativity, and togetherness. Now that my daughter is a senior in high school and busy with different activities and working hard in her academics, I do the majority of the business endeavors. I was out of town for several weeks last year and she completely took care of the orders and shipments, which was a huge help and relief. Overall, I want the world to see that entrepreneurship can be a shared and enriching experience for families.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
We are very centrally located in California. Yosemite National Park is about 2 hours away. San Francisco is about 2 hours away. The mountains and beaches are beautiful and all within a couple hours’ drive. Hiking and sightseeing are high on my list of things to do.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
A sincere shoutout goes to my incredible husband who has been the silent strength throughout the entrepreneurial journey. From the beginning, he has been a steadfast support, attentively listening to ideas, complaints, frustrations, and celebrating both successes and setbacks.
With an unwavering belief in my capabilities, he has stood by my side, never doubting the vision I had for the business. His constant encouragement and positive presence have been a driving force, making the entrepreneurial adventure all the more fulfilling.
Always ready to offer valuable suggestions when sought, he plays a crucial role in navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship. The journey wouldn’t be the same without his support. A heartfelt thank you for being the rock through thick and thin!
Website: www.KellyMack.co
Instagram: @KellyMack.co
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KellyMack.Co
