Today we’d like to introduce you to Briana Jackson
Hi Briana, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Kendra’s Kloset & Kollections: A Journey of Faith, Resilience, and Fashion**
Born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, Briana Kendra, affectionately known as “Bri”, now 34 years old, has always had an eye for fashion and a heart for business. Growing up alongside her older sister, (Brittane Lynn of Lynn Me Your Hands Salon) Kendra was a young woman of many talents and interests. She initially started as a dancer, but during a practice session, she found herself drawn to another group engaged in modeling practice. The allure of modeling captivated her, adding to her diverse passions, which also included music and writing. However, the one passion that truly resonated with her and never left was her love for fashion. Kendra began modeling at the age of 7 years old with Erole Expose Showcase Models (Stanley E. Smith) which provided Bri with over 20+ years of runway etiquette and experience.
Kendra’s strong foundation in faith was instilled in her from an early age. Raised in the Church of God in Christ, her mother ensured that Kendra and her sister were brought up in holiness, grounded in biblical principles. Her mother (Shirley Lee) and grandmother, (Zennie Lee) both strong, faith-driven women, served as her primary role models, deeply influencing her character and values. Her relationship with God and the example set by her mother and grandmother have been guiding forces in her life, providing her with strength and wisdom as she navigates her journey.
Much of Kendra’s business ethics were cultivated and developed from her father, (Rick Redic) a successful business owner who operated several car dealerships in the Memphis and surrounding areas. His strong work ethic was evident both in the office and in the fields, as he was also a horseman and one of Memphis’ first cowboys to travel globally and compete all over the world. His dedication and principles deeply influenced Kendra, instilling in her the values of hard work, perseverance, and integrity.
Later in life, Kendra’s life took a tragic turn when she experienced the devastating loss of her infant son, Elias Michael. The pain was overwhelming, but Kendra knew that in order to survive and not drown in the waves of grief, she needed God’s help. Through prayer, counseling, and her support system, she sought divine guidance to navigate life after such a profound loss. In 2019, during one of the most challenging times in her life, God reminded her of her enduring love and passion for fashion. This reminder became a beacon of hope, helping her find purpose and direction as she moved forward. From the loss of her son, she later launched The Elias Michael Foundation Grief Support, in an effort to provide grieving families with the spiritual, natural, financial, emotional, and psychological support needed to support those who have experienced the loss of loved ones as they navigate through their journeys of adjusting to “new normals.”
Her educational journey began at Graceland Elementary and later into High School where she attended Whitehaven High School, where she graduated in 2008. Driven by a love for learning and self-improvement, Kendra went on to attend Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) and also Southwest Tennessee Community College where she earned her associate’s degree in 2015. Not content to stop there, she later continued her education further & obtained her bachelor’s degree from Arkansas State University in 2023. Now, she is furthering her education by pursuing her third degree—a master’s—demonstrating her unwavering commitment to personal and professional growth.
In addition to her academic and professional achievements, Kendra embraced the joys of motherhood. She is a proud mother to her 3-year-old daughter (Kinsley Reign), who inspires her daily and serves as a central figure in her life.
Kendra’s talent and hard work have led to numerous opportunities. In June 2024, she was featured in the Christian Women’s Expo, a testament to her influence and dedication. Moreover, she has been afforded the opportunity to style and collaborate with various celebrities and politicians, expanding her reach and reputation in the fashion industry.
Today, Kendra is the owner and visionary behind Kendra’s Kloset and Kollections, a thriving clothing boutique that has become a beloved staple in the Memphis community. Her boutique is more than just a store; it is a reflection of her enduring passion for fashion and her commitment to providing quality, stylish clothing to her customers. For Kendra, fashion is not only a passion, but it is a God-ordained ministry, one that she is happy to serve in amongst other facets of serving.
Kendra’s journey has been one of faith, resilience, and balancing the roles of a devoted mother and a successful entrepreneur. Her story is a testament to the power of following one’s passions, the importance of faith, and turning dreams into reality, inspiring others to pursue their own aspirations with dedication and love.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Grief and Loss: The devastating loss of my infant son, Elias, was one of the most profound challenges I faced. The emotional toll of this loss tested my faith, endurance, and strength, making it difficult to move forward, but with God, a strong support system, and resilience I learned how to navigate through the waves and changes that grief brings.
2. Balancing Motherhood and Career: As a mother, balancing responsibilities as a mother with ambitions in business and education has been one of the most challenging, but yet rewarding roles. Although, challenging and amongst all the hats that I wear, being a mother, is my absolute favorite role and I wouldn’t change it for snubbing else in the world. The demands of raising a young child while pursuing higher education and running a business can be overwhelming.
**Navigating Financial Hardships**: Like many young entrepreneurs, I have faced financial difficulties early on in my career, including managing debts from her education, securing funding for her business, and handling personal expenses, all while trying to maintain a stable household for my family.
Building a Brand from Scratch**: Establishing *Kendra’s Kloset and Kollections* would have required significant effort to build a brand identity, attract customers, and stand out in a competitive market. This process involves numerous challenges, including marketing, securing a loyal customer base, and creating a unique selling proposition.
*Overcoming Setbacks**: Every new business faces setbacks, whether it’s dealing with slow sales, supply chain issues, or unexpected expenses.
Finding Reliable Suppliers**: Establishing relationships with trustworthy suppliers who provide high-quality materials at reasonable prices that’s needed to ensure that my boutique could consistently offer fashionable, quality items, which required overcoming challenges in the supply chain.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am the owner and creative director of *Kendra’s Kloset and Kollections*, a boutique that specializes in providing stylish, quality clothing that resonates with the modern, empowered woman. My boutique offers a carefully curated selection of fashion pieces, from chic everyday wear to statement items for special occasions. My work is centered around helping women feel confident and beautiful in what they wear, understanding that fashion is not just about clothes, but about self-expression and identity. I’m known for my attention to detail, the unique blend of classic and contemporary styles in my collections, and my commitment to providing exceptional customer service.
**What are you most proud of?**
I am most proud of the fact that I have built *Kendra’s Kloset and Kollections* from the ground up, turning my passion for fashion into a thriving business. This journey has not been easy, but seeing my vision come to life and knowing that my boutique empowers women to feel their best is incredibly fulfilling. I am also proud of the opportunities I’ve had to style and collaborate with celebrities and politicians, as well as being featured in the Christian Women’s Expo in 2024. These milestones are a testament to the hard work and dedication that has gone into building my brand.
**What sets you apart from others?**
What sets me apart is the combination of my deep passion for fashion, my strong faith, and the personal connection I strive to build with each of my clients. My boutique is not just a place to shop; it’s a community where women can come together to celebrate their individuality and personal style. I also draw heavily on my personal experiences—whether it’s the lessons in business I learned from my father, the strength I gained from overcoming personal losses, or the inspiration I take from my role models, my mother and grandmother. These elements are woven into every aspect of my business, from the items I choose for my collections to the way I interact with my customers.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
Here’s how Kendra might respond to what she likes best and least about Memphis:
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**What do you like best about Memphis?**
What I love most about Memphis is its rich culture and deep-rooted history. The city has a vibrant energy, especially when it comes to music and art, and there’s a strong sense of community here. Memphis is where I grew up, and it’s where I’ve built my life and my business. The people here are resilient, and there’s a unique blend of Southern hospitality and urban culture that I find inspiring. I also appreciate the close-knit nature of the community—people genuinely care about one another, and that support system is invaluable.
**What do you like least about Memphis?**
While I love Memphis, there are challenges, like in any city. One thing that can be difficult is the economic disparity and the struggles some neighborhoods face in terms of access to resources and opportunities. There’s also the ongoing issue of crime, which can be concerning at times. However, I believe in the potential of this city, and I’m committed to being a positive force for change, both through my business and by giving back to the community in any way I can.
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