Meet Kristen Kohary | Designer & Maker

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

Hi Kristen, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Simply stated… Nothing ventured is nothing gained. However, I’ve learned over the years to calculate risks moving forward. Experience helps, but there are never any guarantees. You just have to go for it! If things don’t work out the way you envisioned, note any loss or miscalculations, make the necessary changes, and TRY AGAIN!

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.
When you’re a creative, the art inside of you just has to be released and expressed. Scarf Spree is my vehicle for sharing what’s inside of me. Every single silk scarf, bandana, and pocket square is individually designed and handmade by me.

Like many other artists, I work on every piece until I believe it is finished. This means there is no formula. My mission is to create unique designs and inspirational accessories that feel great, luxurious, sensual, and make you proud to wear and have in your home…always being good to Mother Earth, and her many beautiful creatures along the way.

My process of design is to venture into the woods and draw inspiration from nature….absorbing color and texture that I incorporate into my pieces. I take pride in knowing that my purpose and ultimate goal with my textile art is to always stimulate thought, emotion, and individuality.

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.
San Francisco is a mecca for creatives, food enthusiasts, and wanderlust. There are so many special neighborhoods, eateries, vistas, entertainment venues, and shops to explore…..

A must – Caffe Trieste in North Beach for a cappuccino. Then onto Liguria Bakery for some of the best focaccia you’ll ever taste. After this fantastic food fueling a hike up to Coit Tower on Telegraph Hill for world class views of the city and San Francisco Bay. Meandering through this neighborhood on foot to explore the beautiful homes built all over of the hill is a must for any architectural or home design admirer.

Do not leave San Francisco without visiting Tartine Bakery in the Mission District. A few steps away for some of the best west coast pizza around is Pizzeria Delfina. One must top off this perfect culinary extravaganza at Bi-Rite Creamery for homemade organic ice cream located right across the street. After this crazy carb load walk half a block to Mission Delores Park and explore some of the city’s best people watching. Never a dull moment.

A trip to San Francisco would not be complete without visiting the Haight-Ashbury District. Haight Street is known for “The Summer of Love,” Rock & Roll inspiration, and the counter-culture of the 60’s. Upper Haight Street is clad with funky shops and artsy boutiques. I love them all!! Perfect exploring for anyone looking for anything from fun unique jewelry to festival clothing. Don’t miss Amoeba Records for the best in classic vinyl, any music/DVD, and musical artists release events. Afterwards, be sure to swing by Club Deluxe for a cocktail and some live jazz. A neighborhood favorite!

At the west end of Haight St. is Golden Gate Park, where one could spend a whole week touring and seeing fabulous art museums, the rose garden, and a field of Bison – one of my personal favorite things to see! Oh, and if you have time find Stowe Lake in the Park and take a pedal boat out for a spin around this little lake. There’s a charming stone bridge, mini waterfall, snack bar, and lots of local wildlife.

Anyone that loves live music should check out the SF music scene.  Some of my favorite venues include:  The Chapel, Great American Music Hall, Bottom of the Hill, and The Independent.  Great historical spaces that draw some of the best bands/acts around, but are intimate enough so everyone can enjoy the show.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’m fortunate to have grown up in a family of entrepreneurs. My grandparents, parents, and life partner have been, and still are mentors, supportive, and provide continuous inspiration. It’s really hard to pick just one person in my life that’s influenced me. I grew up in a culture of friends and relatives that are self-starters and hard working.  So, when I began working with textiles the idea of starting my own business just seemed natural.

 x

Website: https://scarfspree.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarf.spree/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scarfspree

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6YHOx9Ts4_w