An Inspired Chat with Mar’Kayla Bethea of Decatur

We recently had the chance to connect with Mar’Kayla Bethea and have shared our conversation below.

Mar’Kayla, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
I am mostly proud of building my confidence within myself, my talent, and my business. It has become easier to promote myself and tell others about the products I produce.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Greetings! I am the proud owner of Nita’s Hands. I started this business in 2019 making gifts for others and have grew to expand over the years. The name “Nita’s Hands” was something I created to give honor to my late grandmother, Juanita Smith, who was a serious crafter and taught me a few of her talents. With trial and error I have been able to build a pretty successful business around the accomplishments of others. My business specializes in graduation apparel including graduation stoles, graduation caps, graduation tees or sweatshirts, and graduation flyers. I have been able to reach so many people with my brand by having clientele throughout the U.S.

Okay, so here’s a deep one: What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
The relationship that most shaped how I see myself is the one I have with my mom. She has always been my biggest supporter, encouraging me to believe in myself even when I doubted my own abilities. Watching her strength, resilience, and the way she carries herself taught me the importance of confidence and independence Her guidance definitely shaped my values and gave me the foundation to see myself as someone capable, worthy, and determined to succeed.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could say one thing to my younger self I would say, keep going because there is a light at the end of the tunnel. I would also say that the best is yet to come and if you keep going everything will get better by the day.

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
A cultural value I protect at all costs is respect. Respect fosters connections, increases trust, and makes room for individuals to be noticed and appreciated. So as long as I give respect to others and their businesses I always get the same in return.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What will you regret not doing? 
I regret not having a business sooner. Though I believe you are right where you need to be, I do feel like I could have been more developed and skilled earlier on.

Contact Info:

• Website: nitashands@gmail.com
• Instagram: @nitashands
• Facebook: Nita’s Hands
• Other: https://nhllc.etsy.com