An Inspired Chat with Kourtney Perry of Des Moines

Kourtney Perry shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Kourtney, 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 do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
When I first wake up, I like to ease into my day with intention and calmness. The very first thing I do is check the weather. I wanna know what the outside is going to be like for the day. It also helps me set my tone and decide how to dress. Then I take a quick look at my calendar to see what’s ahead before I even step out of bed.

I don’t jump straight into emails; I give myself time to breathe and be present. My mornings are my quiet time. I make a cup of tea, take my dog for a walk, and sometimes head to the gym or enjoy a peaceful stroll to clear my mind. Once I’m showered, dressed, and grounded, then I’ll check my emails and prepare for the day ahead. Now does this take more than 90 minutes, you bet it does! Those first minutes and hours are all about peace, clarity, and setting my energy before the world starts calling.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hey everyone! I’m Kourtney Perry, the founder of Ladie Lex Scented Candles and Privacy, LLC — also known as KP Enterprises when I’ve got my business strategist hat on. I like to say I live somewhere between wellness and world domination — one candle and two business plans at a time!

Ladie Lex started in my basement during the pandemic when I was uncertain of what to do when the world was shutting down. I just needed a moment of peace (and a good candle was the suggestion from my sister). It quickly grew into a wellness brand that helps people slow down, breathe, and pour back into themselves. From candles and wax melts to room sprays and self-care workshops, everything I create is designed to help you find calm in the chaos; and smell amazing while doing it.

And because I can’t sit still for too long, I also run Privacy, LLC, where I help small business owners, non profit organizations, and entrepreneurs turn their ideas into impact. My mission is simple… empower others to build something meaningful, sustainable, and true to who they are.

Outside of business, I’m a proud mom to one amazing daughter that I call my “Blessed Child” because she is just so amazing! She is one of my greatest supporters who keeps me grounded, inspired, and laughing through it all. She recently earned her Master’s degree from the University of Northern Iowa.

Through it all I am heavy in faith to enjoy being a successful business owner. Ready to explore the world, share my story, and keep inspiring others to light their own flame.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
The biggest lessons about work and life came from my great-grandmother and grandmother, who raised me. They were strong, loving women with hearts big enough to care for everyone around them. My grandmother was the definition of dedication. She was active with United Way, the church cook, and a constant caregiver for children in the community. There wasn’t a day she didn’t have something going on, and I was right there with her, learning that hard work and service go hand in hand.

In my family, the grind runs deep. My mother, father, and sibling all have a hustle like no other. There was never a day someone wasn’t working toward something. That energy shaped who I am. My work ethic isn’t just something I learned; it’s something that was lived in front of me every single day.

Those lessons became the foundation for how I show up now. As a creator, a leader, and a woman who builds with purpose. I’ve been blessed with the gift to create. To turn ideas into action, and visions into real change. Whether it’s developing businesses, events, or systems that help others grow, I know my work is part of a much bigger story. One that started generations before me. I carry their strength and legacy into everything I do, and I hope to pass that same spark of resilience and faith to my daughter.

What fear has held you back the most in your life?
Being completely honest, it’s always been financial fear. I’ll admit it — I’m not the best when it comes to money management. I can go out there and get it, I can save it, and I can definitely spend it — but truly understanding it? That’s a whole different story.

Things like stocks, bonds, and investments used to intimidate me. Growing up, many of us — especially in the Black community — weren’t taught about building wealth or managing finances. We learned how to work hard and grind, but not always how to make our money work for us. As we get older, we start realizing all the things we wish we’d known sooner that could’ve set us up for more stability and freedom.

Over the last few years, I’ve been working through that fear. Taking the time to learn, ask questions, and make smarter decisions. It’s a journey of unlearning and growing, one step at a time. I’ve learned that you can’t let fear keep you from building the life you deserve. When you face it, you start to see that it’s not about perfection. It’s about progress and for me, that progress is proof that it’s never too late to rewrite your story. Even when it comes to money.

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
Without question, I’m committed to making sure that the Slay The Runway Children’s Fashion Show continues for generations. This project is so much more than just a show. It’s an experience that allows our youth to see themselves in a powerful light and realize that they can be anything they want to be. I created this event back in 2019 because I saw a need to cater to our younger generation in elementary and middle school.

Watching these kids walk that runway with confidence, build friendships, and cheer each other on reminds me exactly why I do it. It’s about empowerment, community, and self-belief. I want every child who participates to feel seen, valued, and inspired to step boldly into who they are.

It truly takes a village, and my hope is that Slay The Runway continues to be that village. A space where our youth can grow, connect, and become the powerful leaders of tomorrow.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people say, “She kept it real.” Because that’s exactly who I am. I’m not a sugar-coating kind of gal. If you come to me, whether it’s about business or life, you’re going to get the truth; delivered with love, but still the truth.

I believe in authenticity and helping people live in it too. Life’s too short for pretending or playing small. My goal has always been to inspire others to show up as their full selves with flaws, faith, fire, and all. So if people remember me as someone who told it like it is, stood on her values, and encouraged others to live in their truth then I’ve done exactly what I was meant to do.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.ladielescandles.net and www.privacyllc.net
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/ladielexcandles and https://instagram.com/privacyllc?igshid=ffb0luyy47gj
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kourtneyperry/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ladielexcandles/ and https://www.facebook.com/privacyllc2018/