We recently connected with Kimberly Freeman and have shared our conversation below.
Kimberly, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
Okella (my grandmother) was known for her keen sense of humor, unmatched work ethic and an incredible ability to enjoy and appreciate life. She was one of the strongest women I’ve ever known and I wanted to do something to preserve just a piece of her legacy. She was a figure of strength, resilience, and care, so I created the Okella brand.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers
On September 23, 2018, following the devastation of Hurricane Florence, Okella peacefully slipped away from us. Departing at tender age of 90 years old. Okella was the youngest and last surviving sibling of 20. Although gone today, Okella will never be forgotten. Before she departed this life, she performed one final astounding display of affection.
On September 12, 2018 (not knowing when she would return home) hurricane Florence caused Okella, my parents and my uncle to temporarily relocate to the Winston Salem, NC area, to escape the storm. Shortly after being away, we found out that she purposefully left her house unlocked back at home. Her thoughtfulness and foresight, allowed for her home to be used as a place of refuge from the storm. A couple, from Pollocksville, managed to find their way to the steps of her home after being rescued from their homes’ rising floodwaters. They noticed her door was unlocked and they were able to quickly get inside and have a roof over their heads for the remainder of the storm. When we asked Okella if she knew her door was unlocked, she simply responded, “Yes, I did”. This is who she was. She was always willing to provide shelter and help to anyone who needed it. And in this case, she had no idea who would need the help.
In addition to buying books for her great grandkids, to keep her mind sharp, Okella bought a lot of crossword puzzle books for herself. I decided to combine my love for her, books, jewelry and accessories. As a result, I formed Okella’s Book Club (In 2020 allowed Okella to stand on it’s own). Okella showcases both trendy and statement jewelry pieces and will support programs aimed at increasing youth literacy. This is my way of sharing a piece of my family with you, and I hope you enjoy it. A portion of all proceeds are donated to non-profit organizations and agencies whose agendas align with these areas.
In every piece of jewelry that you purchase just know that family memories are the foundation of my business. Wear your Okella pieces proudly!
How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?
In July 2019, I took out a $20,000 personal loan to fund this business. Thankfully, it was paid in full a couple of years later.
Can you talk to us about how your side-hustle turned into something more.
When I started this business, I was working a Full-time corporate position. I was working for an organization that was literally making me sick. Early one morning in May of 2020, I woke up and called my manager and gave a 3o day’s notice and had no idea what I would do next. I turned my focus to my 2 businesses and haven’t looked back. I’m so glad I had the presence of mind to leave that organization before it destroyed me, but so happy I made the decision to focus on my 2 businesses because it was the best decision I had made in a very long time.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.okella.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/okellastyle
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/okellaclub
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/okellastyle
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCw-ydys4z50QS3dtjxgqWaw
Image Credits
Elizabeth Ashley & Company