Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in branding and marketing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Khira Mclaurine, Creative Director & Lead Designer of K Brands Studio, located in Houston, TX, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a branding and design studio that serves creatives and professionals in business all over the world. Our business consists of developing brand identities, websites, and marketing assets that allow our clients to engage their audience, build their confidence and grow their online business.
Tell us about yourself
I began working as a graphic designer in 2019 when I was launching a lipstick company. I always had a vision for how I wanted the visuals and the overall brand to look, but when I began seeking other designers, they either couldn't execute my vision, or they were way out of my budget. I embarked on creating my own graphics, which led to me growing a successful lipstick brand, but after a round of depression, I didn't have it in my heart to continue with the brand, but designing made me happy, so I stuck with it. Three years later, I am now growing a successful brand and design studio that takes the vision of other business owners and turns them into tangible brands.
I am motivated by my desire to live a comfortable and free life. I do not enjoy working with other companies, and I do not enjoy being restrained from being creative, so with this self-awareness, I use it to drive myself to show up for K Brands Studio daily. I love the look on our client's faces when I deliver their logos, and they say, "this is exactly what I wanted, but I couldn't put it in words," or the simple "Wow, this is beautiful!". These are my favorite moments, and they encourage me to keep going.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner was working with Shonda Martin on rebranding her company Road to 750. Working with Shonda was a milestone because two years ago, I was charging $500 dollars for websites. At the time, that was awesome, and I felt like the woman of the year. After hiring a coach, I took the leap of faith to work with high-end clients but having a price point over $3000 dollars sometimes made me feel like my dream client would overlook me. After adjusting my mindset, Shonda and I met through Instagram and launched an amazing rebrand together for her company, including a website that is viewed by thousands daily.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The hardest thing that comes with being a business owner is discipline. There's no one over your shoulder telling you what to do when to show up, or how to perform. You must be disciplined enough to battle the lows just as much as you enjoy the highs, which can be tough, especially if you're dealing with a rough patch in life or you're coming into your confidence.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Be patient — the best results don't show up immediately; they come with time.
- Have fun! It's your business, you make the rules, and you're actually allowed to have fun being an entrepreneur.
- Be smart with your money. There will be days you don't make a profit, so make sure you're being smart with your finances on the days you do make a profit.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.kbrandsltd.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kbrandsltd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kbrandsltd/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.