We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Katherine Hillis. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Katherine below.
Katherine, thank you so much for making time for us. We’ve always admired your ability to take risks and so maybe we can kick things off with a discussion around how you developed your ability to take and bear risk?
I still work at this everyday. However, I have come really far. I used to be so shy as a child. So much so, that I would cry when people would talk to me. It was awful. Having dreams and goals are great, but making them happen is where the magic is. In order for them to happen you have to take a risk. My mom and dad were pretty open to me trying new things. When I wanted to go to NYC and try modeling they encouraged it, right along with acting. But, it didnt work out. I think of my daughters, and what I would say to them about their goals and dreams. I want them to know that no matter what, they can accomplish their dreams. They have to take risks and fight for it. With that I take my own advice.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
In my small business we make hand crafted jewelry and hair accessories with natural stone and Crystal’s. We also make vegan leather alternative handbags and wallets. I am focused on making more intricate jewelry through growing my metalsmithing skills. My business has been doing more small market events and shows. We are growing slow but steady. I also have been working on using fashion as art. I have been in a couple of art shows.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Support, flexibility, and networking are my three. There are so many important skills and areas of knowledge needed for running a business. Take support when it comes. It isnt always family, sometimes its friends or co-workers at a day job, or even strangers on Instagram. Support can be money, or kind words, or helpful tips. Being flexible when things dont go smoothly. Whether you are designing a new bag or piece of jewelry to the pouring down rain at an event, you need to be flexible with your expectations and give yourself some grace. Lastly, the one I’m surprised the most about mentioning is networking. It doesnt come easy to me. I can be super socially awkward sometimes. But I’ve learned to not approach it so rigidly. I try to see it as a friendly conversation with someone as opposed to trying to get a job. Ask a benign question, compliment their work, or if all else fails start with the weather. Getting my nerves under control and then asking the more serious questions helps. I didn’t realize networking is more than just talking to the head people at a company. Its building a repore, a relationship with someone who has information that you dont have and it starts small.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
I think the most impactful thing they did for me was support me all my endeavors as a child and teenager. Whether it was cheerleading, modeling, acting,or sports they didnt say no. When money was an issue I got a job or two to help pay for stuff. When I went back to school to get my BFA in Fashion Design, they were there. When I started my small business, they were there. I still weekly check ins from my mom. She has been my biggest supporter and fan from the beginning. My dad was a also big on letting me try new things. I aim to be that kind of support for my daughters.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: ksd.boutique
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katherinesuzannedesigns?mibextid=9R9pXO
- Other: https://ksdboutique.etsy.com
Image Credits
Katherine Hillis
