We had the good fortune of connecting with Kiandra Leon and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Kiandra, what principle do you value most?
There are many principles that matter to me. Growing up, I was surrounded by close family members who were business owners. I’ve learned so many principles being surrounded by them such. The principle that matters to me most would be to be consistent. This is what stood out to me mostly. Being consistent will equal growth. Starting off as a small business is scary, but as long as you remain consistent, you will grow, and your business will grow.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I was laid off at the beginning of the pandemic and was unsure to when I returning to work. I was unable to provide, my money ran out, and it scared me! As a mother, I knew I had to do something. ThingsImagined was born June 2020. I was always afraid of just doing things. I was hesitant, I was always afraid of being judged, and let down. Until I said, “I’m going to do this.” I had to step out on faith. I had to listen to that voice that said “Kiandra, you got this, and I got you!” I am so proud I have a business like I have. It pushes me every time I create something. Every item that I’ve created, is made with love & creativity. Even as a child, I’ve always loved art and being creative. I would even help my mom put together shelves because I was always good at figuring out puzzles and using my hands. Whenever I get a project, I ask myself, how can I “wow” them? The best feeling is seeing my client’s reaction once they’ve received their order. Whether it was a personalized tumbler or personalized crocs, I use them as my canvas to create art, and I let my imagination run wild!
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend visited me, I would take them to breakfast or lunch at Just Spoons café. Dinner would be at Barton G’s in Miami Beach. We definitely need to hit Wynwood Art District in Miami. There’s a lot of history there, and places to see and bar hop! They have plenty of places to eat and the art there is amazing!! We can also go to the Strawberry Farm in Miami to see the scenery and pick fresh strawberries and see the beautiful sunflowers they have there. Then we must go shopping! Sawgrass Mills Mall has the best shopping!
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?
There are so many people who have pushed me to where I am today. I have many great people that I’ve connected with. Nekesia Robinson who has always pushed me to be accountable. She’s literally that person in the back of my head asking me, “Why haven’t you done this or that yet?”. Lady Ashley Thornton for the constant challenges. Ashley will being me an item, and tell me to do my thang! She pushes my creativity to the fullest extent. My sister Lakitsia Gaines for the mentorship and the financial aspect of owning a successful business. “Sis, whats your money looking like this month?, What about last year?” I would also like to thank my late father Larry. E. Clayton – My dad was the original business man. He was the first businessman I knew. A bus company for private charters and a truck company for freight as well. I am so sure he is so proud of me now. I dedicate this all to all my family, friends and clients who has supported me for the past 1 and a half years.
Website: www.thingsimaginedllc.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/thingsimagined.llc
Facebook: www.facebook.com/thingsimaginedllc
Image Credits
Nekesia Robinson