We were lucky to catch up with Marie-France Noel recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Marie-France, thanks for joining us today. How has Covid changed your business model?
COVID-19 impacted our business in ways that I could not have anticipated. Unable to outsourced materials such coconut shells and cow horn from Haiti, we had to pivot to making hand painted jewelry with materials at hand. We thankfully had stocked up right at the beginning of the new year, before the world shutdown.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is Marie-France Noel, I’m the Founder and Creative Designer of KADOKÉLÉ. A lifestyle brand offering handcrafted jewelry, apparel and clothing. My creativity is inspired by my family and cultural heritage. My designs are colorful, intentionally created to spark joy. My mission is to make women feel celebrated, empowered to live their best lives while wearing more fun colors.
Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?
I had to unlearn that having a great design is not enough. You have to have a clear point of view that is supported by a great mission. We didn’t have a defined mission in the beginning. It took time to define our why and targeted audience. Our mission has fostered a community of phenomenal women.
How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?
Networking and showing up for others has helped build my reputation. It’s important to lead with kindness and helping hands. Someone will show up for you too.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.kadokele.com
- Instagram: www.Instagram.com/kadokele
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/kadokele