Today we’d like to introduce you to Kenish Coleman
Hi Kenish, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Bellair started as an idea during my sophomore year of college in 2018. While watching Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, I began brainstorming names for my business. I wanted something meaningful that would last, and “Bellair” felt perfect.
On our journey, we opened our first location in Cleveland, Mississippi, which gave me great experience in running a business. Now, Bellair is an online boutique, and we also travel to connect with more people and grow our brand.
Our mission is to help others find their identity through their wardrobe while teaching them to be bold and uniquely themselves. We carry women’s clothing and accessories and offer wardrobe styling and business consulting services to inspire confidence and individuality.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road hasn’t always been smooth, but it’s been worth it. Some struggles along the way have been about maintaining the right mindset, especially when it comes to consistency. There were seasons where the focus wasn’t on profiting but on learning, and I had to learn to be okay with that. Starting a business requires patience, allowing it to grow, and giving yourself time to understand every aspect of it inside and out.
One of the biggest challenges has been pushing forward even when I felt like I didn’t have all the resources I thought I needed at the moment. It’s not easy, but I’ve learned that obstacles and challenges are part of the journey. The key is having the mindset to keep going, no matter what.
This journey has taught me that if there’s something you truly want to do, you can do it. But success requires persistence, resilience, and a commitment to keep moving forward, even when the road gets tough.
As you know, we’re big fans of Bellair. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
At Bellair, we offer wardrobe styling services, business consulting services, and a curated selection of women’s clothing and accessories. We recently launched a program called Jean by Bellair, dedicated to educating and providing resources to farmers and truck drivers, supporting their growth and success.
What I’m most proud of is seeing the results of putting in the work—the fruits of my labor. Knowing that the work I’m doing is not in vain keeps me motivated and inspired every day.
What sets Bellair apart is staying true to the mission and vision that I was given. I believe the work I do is meant to touch the lives of a specific group of people, and by staying true to the path God has created for me, I know I’m fulfilling my purpose. Everyone is unique, and Bellair reflects that by staying in the lane that was designed just for us.
What I want others to know about Bellair is that we are a place for all things fashion. While we specialize in the services we offer, we don’t limit ourselves. Bellair is about being open, flexible, and driven by a love for fashion. I truly love what I do, and there’s nothing more fulfilling than seeing the positive impact it has on others.
I also model for other brands, boutiques, and businesses, showcasing my passion for fashion in multiple ways.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
What has worked well for me is finding people who are already doing what I aspire to do. Watching their journey helped me create my own path. I’ve also been inspired by people I’ve met along the way—whether strangers or loved ones, their guidance has been invaluable.
Organizations like Delta State University Women Minority Business Development Center and SCORE have also provided free mentorship and resources that have been incredibly helpful. My father has been a key mentor, showing me what it takes to run a business through his example. There are many people I can credit as mentors on this journey.
My advice is to not be afraid to reach out to others, even if you get a no. Keep asking, keep seeking, and trust that the right people will come along to help you.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.shopbellair.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopbellair/profilecard/?igsh=N3ZhY3BjMTV2cGV1
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/dD1HSxYYWSDMKytN/?mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Twitter: https://x.com/shopbellair
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@kenishcoleman?si=2UIQPm_lgaDpfkX1
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/shopbellair/
