Today we’d like to introduce you to Kayla Lee.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I first opened my business in 2018, under the name Mangoes, after many years of designing my own clothes and sewing in my room. I always knew I wanted to do something within the fashion industry but was not sure exactly what I wanted to do with that. So, in between graduating high school and starting college at Iowa State University, I opened the boutique. Since then, I have gone through a lot of phases and trial and error within my business.
My original vision for Kaylee, was to provide high quality and affordable clothing for young women. I wanted to create a fun shopping environment where young women would feel welcomed and create memories. This was the case from the beginning and is the staple for every move I make within Kaylee.
By 202o, I moved into a bigger store front down the street. In the new space, I was able to really start understand what I was picturing for my brand. In 2021, I rebranded to the name Kaylee, a name that is more personal to me.
In 2023, I opened a second location in Ames, IA. During my time with a storefront in Iowa, I was heavily focused on growing my online and social media presence. I learned a lot about the differences in running a seasonal business vs a year round location. In January of 2024. I moved out of Iowa and ended up opening a second seasonal location in Frankfort, MI. This was very short-lived as I ended up being presented with an opportunity in Pentwater.
In October of 2024, I took over ownership of Elise Boutique. Elise has been a staple in Pentwater for about 20 years. Elise is known for it’s high end products and more mature audience. Taking ownership of this new business has been the greatest learning experience as I have been able to grow and learn so much.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
No, I have faced many challenges since opening my boutique. While I went through rebranding and COVID-19 as a business owner, my biggest struggle has been myself as I started my business at age 17 and am now 25. As I have been in this transformative age, I have had many different visions of what I wanted to focus on.
I have opened and closed different locations, focused heavily on my online presence, and even started a new business venture. All of these different paths have taught me different things about business.
As you know, we’re big fans of Kaylee And Elise. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Kaylee is a trendy women’s boutique for young women. I created Kaylee to provide high quality and affordable clothing that follow the latest trends.
Elise is a high end boutique for a more mature client. We strive to offer a completely customized and personal shopping experience offering the latest from top brands such as Trina Turk, Joesph Ribkoff, Kinross Cashmere, and much more.
Both of my businesses have a strong brand image and the same value of providing an excellent shopping experience.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
My advice would be to just start instead of waiting to be perfect. I have changed my business so much over the past 8 summers as I have learned what and narrowed down my vision for the brand. It’s ok to change your mind and try new things.
Pricing:
- All items at Kaylee are less than $100
- Elise is a high end boutique
Contact Info:
- Website: https://shopkaylee.com and elisepentwater.com
- Instagram: @shopkaylee_ and @elisepentwater
- TikTok: @shopkaylee_ and @elisepentwater
