An Inspired Chat with Kirrston Mclendon

We recently had the chance to connect with Kirrston Mclendon and have shared our conversation below.

Kirrston, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
For me, integrity is the most important quality a person can have. Integrity is the foundation of good character because it means living by strong morals and values, and choosing to do the right thing even when no one else is watching. A person with integrity is guided by honesty and fairness, which allows them to build trust and respect with others.

I believe that when you truly have integrity, the other qualities, like energy and intelligence, fall into place more naturally. Integrity gives you a higher level of positive energy, because you carry yourself with peaceful authenticity. It also sharpens your decision-making, because when you are honest with yourself and others, your intelligence is applied in ways that create real, lasting impact.

Without integrity, energy can be misdirected, and intelligence can be misused. But with integrity is at the core, both energy and intelligence become powerful tools for good! That’s why integrity is most important to me, it’s about who you are at your core and how you show up in the world.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Kirrston Mclendon, and I am the founder of Kirrston’s Kollections, LLC, a family-owned business built upon Louisiana tradition. I grew up learning to cook alongside my grandmother, in Opelousas, LA, who passed down not only recipes but also a deep love for food, family, and culture. Those lessons shaped who I am today and inspired me to create products that celebrate and preserve our Creole heritage.

My signature product, K’s Kreole Seasoning, is a flavorful, specialty blend made with pink Himalayan salt. It’s a mindful, balanced twist on traditional Creole seasoning, made to bring authentic Louisiana flavor to kitchens everywhere. I have also created a line of aromatherapy oils made with essential oils, designed to nourish the senses and promote wellness. My products are about more than taste and scent, they’re about sharing a piece of my roots and creating meaningful experiences for others.

What makes my brand unique is that it carries both tradition and originality. Every product has a story, tied to family, culture, and resilience. I would like for people to know that it hasn’t been an easy journey. As a minority business owner, breaking into large retail chains has been anything but easy. Many times it takes extra persistence and determination for buyers to give you a chance. I will admit. But I believe in my products and what I represent. That keeps me going! I have also learned that faith, hard work, and authenticity open doors—even if it takes longer.

Today, my products can be found in stores like Rouses Market, select HEB locations, and Walmart Marketplace. My current focus is expanding into more stores across the country so that I can share the authentic flavors and scents of Louisiana with as many people as possible. As the brand continues to evolve, we are now in the process of blending our spices into canisters, giving customers a choice between traditional shakers and canisters.

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child, I believed that I was a non-factor—that I didn’t matter and that my voice or presence wasn’t important. Growing up in a broken home with limited resources, I faced many adversities and struggled in high school due to challenges at home. I often felt overlooked and undervalued, both at home and at school.

Today, I no longer believe that. I know that I matter, and that I am capable of achieving anything I set my mind to. I’ve learned that my worth isn’t defined by popularity, money, or my background. I am not less than anyone else because of my socioeconomic status, education, or the circumstances I grew up in. I now believe in my own strength, resilience, and ability to make an impact!

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self that my life has a bigger purpose.

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. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
I admire my oldest son, Jocias Pitre, for his character. He is kind-spirited, loving, and genuinely caring, always willing to help family and friends without complaining. Beyond his compassion, he is incredibly driven and strategic. He started college at 18, earned a biology degree in four years during the challenges of COVID, and then went on to graduate school at Colorado State, where he earned a master’s in toxicology.

Even during the uncertainty of the pandemic, Jocias remained resilient, persistent, and focused on his goals. After finishing his master’s, he navigated the job market with determination, attending job fairs, applying online, and ultimately securing a position as a lab scientist. Watching him work hard, plan carefully, and persevere reminds me so much of myself, and I deeply admire the character, determination, and work ethic he embodies every day.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. If you laid down your name, role, and possessions—what would remain?
If I laid down my name, role, and possessions, what would remain is my true character. I am a loyal and trustworthy person who values honesty and transparency. I do not betray others, and I always strive to keep my word. I work hard, empathize with people, and approach life with integrity and sincerity.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.kirrstonskollections.com
• Instagram: @kskreole
• Facebook: Kirrston’s Kollections LLC
• Other: tik tok: @kskreole

Image Credits
Jocias Pitre