Today we’d like to introduce you to Karen Belle.
Hi Karen, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
In 2015, a very good friend of mine asked me to create a piece for her. It was a pumpkin…nothing I gave much thought to, just something that was appropriate for her. I can still remember her looking at me and asking me point-blank, “why are you playing with your craft? Why aren’t you taking it seriously and doing something more with it? You have something to offer…stop wasting it.” I gave it some thought and realized that she was right. I did have something to offer and while I couldn’t be certain that everyone would respond to it with as much positivity and encouragement as she did, the question I had to ask myself was, “why not try?” It was something that I was already invested in. I was constantly connecting with other artists to network and learn more about resin work so it was clearly something I was passionate about. Why not see where that passion took me? With that, Kay Belle Designs was born. From one pumpkin, my company has evolved to become a brand dedicated to creating unique custom products for customers to enjoy for a lifetime. Each item is custom-crafted, with a touch of you. Kay Belle Designs is dedicated to producing exclusive products to celebrate special occasions or your special person. We are proud of what we do and aim to be your go-to brand. We will continue to work tirelessly to create an assortment of products for you to enjoy.
Kay Belle Designs creates luxurious and sophisticated handcrafted items for any event. Planning a special event? Perhaps a wedding, birthday, anniversary, corporate event or just because? If you’re unsure of the direction, we can suggest ideas based on your personality and preferences. We are dedicated to enhancing any occasion with our custom decorative designs. Whether you’re in the mood for customized glassware, resin or an exclusive commission piece we’re just a click away.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
While I love being a business owner, it is not as glamourous as it may seem from the outside. There are many challenges and obstacles that you must consistently overcome. Although you may see the vision clearly in your mind’s eye, creating custom pieces doesn’t always go as planned. Sometimes, to achieve the quality you pride yourself on, you’re forced to completely redo a project. This not only adds time to the project but often comes at your own personal expense.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
At Kay Belle Designs my specialty is custom luxury home decor that I create with resin, specifically coaster & tray sets, mirrors and wooden resin commission pieces. I think what sets Kay Belle Designs apart from other resin artists is our flair and unique way of creating. One of the hallmarks of our designs is utilizing multiple color palettes.
I think what I’m most proud of is my belief in myself and my determination to bring my vision to life. So many people – black women in particular – are encouraged to conform to society’s “standards” instead of following our passions. Having an entrepreneurial spirit isn’t easy, but it allows me to not only live an authentic life every single day but also to continuously grow and evolve to keep my company going. As Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson learned long ago, things may be hard, but they are worth it if we only “persevere.”
What matters most to you?
My goal is to create pieces that my customers love as much, if not more than I do. I want my designs to add a bit of joy to someone’s home. And while I always want my pieces to stand out, I also want them to serve as a connecting piece in any space they’re placed in; to provide a sense of joyful integration between what their new owners hoped for, and what they received. A satisfied customer is often a repeat customer, and even if they don’t make another purchase, showcasing my work in their homes invites their family and friends to learn more about my business and can result in additional business.
Pricing:
- Pricing starts at $55
Contact Info:
- Email: Info@kaybelledesigns.com
- Website: www.kaybelledesigns.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/kaybelledesigns
- Facebook: www.Facebook.com/kaybelledesigns
Image Credits:
Photography by: Antoine Stephenson Lovejoy Photography, LLC & Jordan Collins
