Meet Kathleen Ragland | Creative Spirit

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kathleen Ragland and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kathleen, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My journey into entrepreneurship has been anything but linear—it's been an evolving
story of self-discovery, reinvention, and embracing creativity in ways I never imagined.
Over the past 35 years, I've pursued various business endeavors, each one teaching
me valuable lessons, yet none truly unlocking my own artistic potential.
As a former art gallery owner, I found immense joy in curating spaces that celebrated
artistic expression. Representing artists gave me an intimate glimpse into the creative
process, allowing me to witness firsthand the passion, discipline, and emotion that go
into each piece. I admired their ability to translate thoughts, experiences, and visions
into tangible works of art, but I never saw myself as an artist—I was always on the
outside looking in.
That changed a few years ago. I took several trainings centered around creativity, life
transitions, and grief—subjects I had never fully explored but felt drawn to. The
experience was nothing short of transformational. It opened doors to parts of myself I
had unintentionally kept locked away, allowing me to see creativity not as a distant skill
for others but as a deeply personal tool for healing and growth. I started experimenting
with art and craft, initially creating pieces just for myself, then for close family and
friends. With each piece I made, I felt a profound sense of fulfillment—an energy and
joy that had been absent in my previous careers.
More importantly, I realized that art has the power to heal—not just individually, but
collectively. It can soothe, inspire, and bridge gaps between people in ways that words
alone cannot. I wanted to be part of that magic, to contribute to a world where creativity
was seen as essential to well-being. Encouraged by the enthusiasm of those who
received my work and fueled by my own sense of purpose, I made the leap to share my
creations with a wider audience.
Today, I sell my art at craft fairs and through Etsy, not just as a business venture but as
a deeply personal endeavor. Every piece I create is a reflection of my journey—a
journey of transformation, of embracing creativity after decades of overlooking it, and of
realizing that it’s never too late to uncover new passions. My hope is that my work
resonates with others in ways that bring them joy, peace, and inspiration, just as
creating it has done for me.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am incredibly proud and excited to be embarking on a new venture at a stage in life
when many would consider slowing down. Rather than seeing this as a winding-down
period, I view it as an opportunity for reinvention—an invitation to fully embrace
creativity and turn a lifelong appreciation for art into something tangible and meaningful.
While starting a business at this stage comes with challenges—especially when it
comes to technology, promotion, and navigating the fast-moving digital landscape—I
firmly believe that if you don’t take the leap, you’ll never know what’s possible. Creativity
and growth don’t have an expiration date.
My work is deeply personal, blending artistry with nostalgia, craftsmanship, and
storytelling. I create one-of-a-kind journals, greeting cards, bookmarks, picture frames,
decorated glass, and decorative birdhouses—all designed with love and intention. Each
piece is made using vintage and repurposed materials, adding a unique sense of history
and charm. My designs range from shabby chic and feminine to coastal, nature-
inspired, masculine, and even holiday-themed works—ensuring that each item carries a
distinct personality and appeal. These aren’t just decorative pieces; they are thoughtful
creations meant to inspire, uplift, and bring beauty into everyday life.
Through this journey, I’ve learned invaluable lessons—not only about entrepreneurship
but about resilience and self-discovery. I’ve come to appreciate the importance of
flexibility, of embracing imperfections, and of pushing forward despite challenges. I no
longer take most things personally—I recognize that setbacks are stepping stones, not
roadblocks. I keep trying, keep dreaming, and continue believing that art has the power
to heal, both personally and collectively.
Most of all, I want people to know that it is never too late to pursue something that
brings joy and fulfillment. Success is not a fixed definition; it is a deeply personal
journey that each individual shapes for themselves. For me, success is about sharing
my creations with others, making meaningful connections, and contributing something
beautiful to the world. If my work inspires even one person to embrace their own
creativity or take a chance on their dreams, then I consider that a success in itself.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Coconut Grove – almost anywhere, but definitely Books and Books, Greenstreet, and any of the many cafes. Fairchild Tropical Garden, Lincoln Road, Wynwood. For food – Versailles, Palace for brunch, The Mutiny Hotel (Taco Bar!), Joe’s Stonecrab (Iconic).

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My family, especially the Martin girls, Kristin, Josie and Sofia and my son Charles who always encourages and supports my efforts.

Instagram: @kaths.kreations.fl

Other: https://kathskreationsfl.etsy.com