Today we’d like to introduce you to Kalessia Chester.
Kalessia, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I moved to Atlanta ten years ago from Mississippi. I was looking for something new, a fresh start if you will. After arriving, the do over didn’t seem so fresh and there was still something lacking. I knew that lack was internally for me. I’ve always loved fashion and have a high turn over rate in clothes (as my former hairstylist would say,) and when I would once give bags and bags of clothes away (I still donate,) I decided to start consigning them via Instagram. With that fulfillment, I still wanted something more, something impactful, and as I began a closer walk with God, I decided I wanted to write (blog) about life’s experiences and how ultimately, life-the experiences and everything in it points back to God.
I wanted to show women (and men thanks to my husband who I met here) that you can love God and still be cool so to speak. So often we look at the traditions of the church and rules of religion and turn away, but we have to know God and his word for ourselves to know that you don’t follow a rule, you follow THE ONE, which ultimately led to me publishing a Prayer and Devotional book. So, Pretty Dope Girl originated from my love for God, writing and fashion. I want every woman and girl to know that “Hey, you’re pretty dope!”
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I will say the road has not been smooth. I can make a blog post today, check back two days later and only two people have read it. In relation to consigning, like any business, some days are better than others. Life hits us all and when I say hit us, we have insecurities along the way that makes you want to stop everything you’re doing. I have to say I’m always reminded though that it’s not about how many you impact but what impact did you make on just one person. Speaking of insecurities, right after I released my book, I wanted to take it back, but I knew that was the negative mindset speaking. I remember wanting to release it several months before it was actually released and going back several times to fix several errors that made me want to say forget it. As I said, however, I had to dismiss the negative mindset and remember that if I only impact one, that’s enough for me!
Pretty Dope Girl – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Pretty Dope Girl is an online site that shares weekly inspirational blogs and gives fashion tips. Members can even schedule an appointment for styling. I’d like to say I specialize in helping women be their best selves. I even have a shirt that reads, “Hey Girl, you’re pretty dope!” The purpose behind the shirt is for one woman to wear it and another woman to read it and be inspired or motivated.
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
My proudest moment thus far would have to be the feedback and support I’ve received on the devotional. Insecurity tried to creep in when I first published it, but to know that so many people are enjoying it makes me feel great (on the level that God’s word is going forth.)
Pricing:
- Prayer & Devotional Book $10
Contact Info:
- Website: www.Prettydopegirl.org
- Email: kalessia.cooperwood@gmail.com
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