We had the good fortune of connecting with Kenda Kistenmacher and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kenda, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?

Work life balance is challenging for entrepreneurs, most startups are a one person company who therefore has to perform all aspects of the business. When starting out, you do everything from production to marketing and when you realize that you are out of your depth and you finally seek the help you need but you are left constantly wondering if you can afford it. I feel this is especially true for creatives, like myself, not a lot of us tend to be good at spreadsheets and numbers. I think best way to achieve balance is to align yourself with people who have those skills to perform those tasks. By utilizing your best assets and outsourcing what is frustrating or time consuming, you leave yourself open to have boundaries from your work life. In my case, after 15 years, I’m still trying to find the balance but I’m on the journey.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I have always strived to tell our story and what sets Kenda Kist Jewelry apart from other jewelry brands. I firmly believe that what I do and the way I do it with our hand forged signature shapes, textures and timeless style is what sets us apart. Made with quality and sustainable materials, each and every piece and part is made here in our DTR studio. Many brands only hand assemble and do not fabricate, however, we do it all and the result is a lasting forever piece of jewelry. I have run into a lot of challenges along the way, including how to scale and keep true to the brand. I’ve worked through these challenges and in the process, I’ve taken on a new role, mentor. I feel this has become my purpose. I am passionate about cultivating a space to help the next generation of creators thrive and build on their creativity. The biggest lesson I’ve  learned in my 15 years of building this brand is to stay true to myself. There is always chatter and other peoples opinions and visions of what you should be making, but staying consistent to what you love and do best is where I believe our success lies.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love this question because I am in awe of how much the Triangle has grown! I love to share the area with my friends and family! Morning would be a workout at Mega – Tramp or Pilates class. Then head over to the Kenda Kist Jewelry studio and show them our new shopable space. We would walk over to Layered and have a fresh baked croissant. Up next a little trek over to Mordecai, with a cocktail from William and Co then a little shopping at Unlikely Professionals and Edge of Urge.

Head over to Wye Hill for lunch and then a little walk about DTR before heading back to Cary for dinner. Pre-dinner drinks at RBF for the some bubbles and the best restrooms I’ve ever seen. Then off to one and only and best in town, Hanks Downtown Dive. End the night with a little walk around the new DTC park.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My shoutout would be to my team. The community we have built makes my heart so proud. Our team stretches from our studio here in North Carolina to my sales team and all my friends and family that are my biggest chearleaders. Especially my husband, who I wouldn’t be where I am today without his support. He has been the backbone of running this operation with me.

Website: WWW.KENDAKIST.COM

Instagram: KENDAKISTJEWELRY

Facebook: KENDAKISTJEWELRY

Image Credits
HAYLEY ELLIS – @PINK.DAISIES

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