We recently connected with Carolyn Siden and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Carolyn thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?
I have always had a passion for interior design and a consistent aesthetic both in the home and how I dress. In addition, the women in my life (“my tribe”) and my friendships have always been a priority to me and I’ve nurtured these relationships throughout many years. Many of them have turned to me as their go-to resource for home decor, fashion and have been inquisitive about my lifestyle. Therefore, KIIN (short for kinship) was born for likeminded women as a curated platform for inspiration in the topics in which many have inquired with me throughout the years. The idea began when I wanted to reach more women, outside of my immediate circle and serve as a resource for those who have a curiosity about looking good but also feeling good within their homes, and better yet, their minds, bodies and spirit. Networking and sharing wellness and home decor tips have always been a part of who I am.
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
I have earned a dual degree from FIT and continued my studies through The New York School of Interior Design and have earned my certification for staging in Los Angeles. I am proud of the fact that I have created kiin for women all run by women. I have supported other women led/owned businesses and look forward to partnerships in the future that kiin’s aesthetic feels naturally aligned with. Everything kiin does is with intention and thought. What makes the interior design inspirations for our team is the philosophy that it isn’t just about putting beautiful things in your home but more about the feelings you want to evoke from within living there. Our approach is to make it a sensorial experience. Seeing beautiful things, hearing harmonious sounds, scents that evoke emotions and textures and fabrics that feel luxurious.
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
In my 20s and 30s I had a fashion business which grew from representing 1 manufacturer to 40. I was always entrepreneurial, fresh out of college and continue to be throughout my 50s. Almost after 20 year of being out of the work force and raising my 2 boys who are now well on their way, is something I take tremendous pride in.
When turning 50, I pivoted from full-time mom to entrepreneur once again. Clearly seeing an opportunity ahead of me knowing I was going to be an empty nester in the near future owning the time in my life for the first time, and having the freedom and time to step into my power to nurture my second business and bring it to life.
Having the experience of being a business owner once before has given me the confidence and ability to draw from lessons learned in the entrepreneurial process.
Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?
There is no such thing as perfection. Life will throw you curve balls when you least expect it and learning resilience and flexibility in my opinion, are the key to getting you through your hurdles and hardships.
I have always strived for perfection in my 20s, 30s, and 40s. Now in my 50s, I’ve had to unlearn such critical thinking and judgements and soften my approach to expectations, not only of myself but of others as well.
The wisdom we collect through all of the phases in our lives is invaluable and I strive to live a very balanced life, today.
Contact Info:
- Website: kiinedit.com
- Instagram: kiin.edit
- Linkedin: kiin llc
Image Credits
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