We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Kashie Mckinnon. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Kashie below.

Alright, Kashie thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Let’s start with the story of your mission. What should we know?

My mission stems from a deeply personal place—one rooted in faith, identity, and the desire to create spaces where people, especially women of color, feel seen, celebrated, and inspired. Growing up, I often found that traditional stationery and book-related products lacked representation of diverse voices and cultures. As someone who values creativity, connection, and faith, I felt called to bridge that gap.

Seasoned Stationery, along with the other businesses I lead, was born from this passion. I wanted to create more than just products; I wanted to cultivate a community where people, especially women, could celebrate their individuality while being reminded of their worth in God’s eyes. My work reflects my belief that representation matters and that every woman has a unique story worth telling.

On book signings at Barnes & Noble, I couldn’t help but notice a lack of representation of BIPOC women in their stationery products. Seeing rows of beautifully curated items that didn’t reflect the diversity of their customers sparked something in me. This realization inspired me to create Seasoned Stationery, a brand that prioritizes BIPOC representation and celebrates all women while reminding them of their unique identity in Christ.

Similarly, this need for representation drove me to write the “Naturally Naila” children’s book series. The main character, Naila, is an Afro-Native American pre-teen with long natural hair, who navigates life with confidence and grace. Through her story, I aim to uplift young girls of color and provide them with a character they can see themselves in—something I longed for when I was younger.

Through my faith and life experiences, I’ve learned that true success comes from leaning into God’s plan. As the CEO of Seasoned Stationery and a mother, wife, and author, I aim to integrate my walk with Christ into every facet of my work. My mission is to encourage others to embrace their God-given creativity and use it to leave a positive impact on the world.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I’m Kashie McKinnon—wife, mother, Author, Genealogist, Singer, Entrepreneur, and most importantly, a daughter of the Most High God. My journey into entrepreneurship and ministry has been a deeply personal one, shaped by my desire to inspire, affirm, and serve others.

I am the CEO of Seasoned Stationery, a BIPOC-affirming brand specializing in creative, high-quality stationery for women who love books, journaling, and self-expression. I’m also a genealogist and founder of Tribal Trees (www.tribaltreesdna.com), a business dedicated to connecting BIPOC individuals with their ancestors through DNA research and family tree building.

My businesses were birthed out of passion and necessity. Seasoned Stationery (www.seasonedstationery.com), began when I noticed a lack of representation in stationery products during my book signings at Barnes & Noble. I wanted to fill that gap by creating items that celebrate women of color and reflect the beauty of diversity. Similarly, “Naturally Naila”, my children’s book series, was created to address the need for representation in literature, featuring an Afro-Native American pre-teen with long natural hair.

“Tribal Trees” was born from my love of genealogy and my desire to help others uncover their family histories. I believe you can walk with more gratitude and purpose when you know where you come from. Helping others reconnect with their roots is not just my business—it’s my calling.

Through Seasoned Stationery, I offer journals, bookmarks, calendars, and other items that inspire creativity and celebrate diversity. With Tribal Trees, I provide comprehensive genealogy services to help people of color trace their ancestry and reclaim their histories. My work solves the problem of underrepresentation while encouraging connection—with oneself, one’s heritage, and God.

What sets me apart is my intentionality and faith-driven approach. Every product I create and every service I offer is an act of worship to God. I strive to point to Him in everything I touch and create, ensuring that my work is not only meaningful but transformative for those who experience it.

I’m proud to be for someone else what I needed as a child—a source of representation, encouragement, and affirmation. Whether through stationery, genealogy, or literature, I’m honored to serve others in ways that help them feel seen, celebrated, and connected.

I’m also proud of the impact Seasoned Stationery has had, the stories uncovered through Tribal Trees, and the recognition of my work in platforms like Barnes & Noble and Voyage LA Magazine.

I want people to know that my work is grounded in gratitude and faith. Seasoned Stationery, my music “Plant Seeds” with my husband Graham, The Naturally Naila book series, and Tribal Trees, are more than businesses—they’re ministries. Every product and service is created with the hope of inspiring others to walk boldly in their purpose, embrace their heritage, encounter Christ, and see themselves through God’s eyes.

Above all, I want people to know that every success I’ve had is because of God’s power and favor. My prayer is that my work continues to be a light, encouraging others to live with gratitude, purpose, and boldness.

Can you talk to us about how you funded your business?

Starting my businesses was an entrepreneurial journey fueled by determination, resourcefulness, and God’s provision. Before Seasoned Stationery and Tribal Trees, I ran a successful crochet company for many years. My grandmother Alice and mother taught me how to crochet at just six years old, and I’m forever grateful for the skill they passed down. It became the lifeline that sustained me and funded my visions.

In that business, I crocheted everything from blankets to portraits, handbags, clothing, and more. My work even caught the attention of reggae celebrities, many of whom became loyal customers and remain friends to this day. There were countless late nights where I worked until my fingers cramped, crafting pieces to fill orders and make ends meet.

This business not only fed me but also became the financial foundation that allowed me to pursue my other ventures. The discipline and perseverance I learned through those years of crochet laid the groundwork for my later successes. I only recently closed the company, as my other businesses now demand my full attention, but I carry those lessons with me every day.

To parents, I say: teach your children a trade. My ability to crochet not only supported me but also opened doors I never could have imagined. It was the stepping stone to the blessings I walk in today.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

My reputation within my market is built on authenticity, connection, and excellence in every detail. People resonate with me because I keep it real. In my “Naturally Naila” children’s book series, I tackle real issues and provide representation for people of color. The stationery I create reflects us—not just visually but culturally—with our jargon, our humor, and our voice. My customers see themselves in my products, and that connection is priceless.

I also prioritize providing an exceptional experience. I ship products out the next day 98% of the time, often include thoughtful freebies, and take great care with my packaging to reflect intentional branding. Excellent customer service is a cornerstone of my business, ensuring customers feel valued at every step.

Being an author has been a tremendous asset in the bookish community. Writing books and running a stationery business is a natural fit. This community has lovingly embraced me because they see me as one of their own—an African-American woman, a mother, and someone who loves books as much as they do. My shared identity and experiences have helped me build trust and foster deep connections with my audience.

Ultimately, it’s about solving problems that matter and showing up with heart and integrity. Everything I do points back to my mission of creating something meaningful for my community.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.seasonedstationery.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/seasonedstationery & www.instagram.com/naturallynailabooks
• Other: https://www.tribaltreesdna.com

Image Credits

Graham McKinnon