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

Hi Kimberly, what do you attribute your success to?

Growing up in Houston, TX music and performance has always been at the forefront of my life. It was all I knew and it was all I wanted to do every day. As I evolved as a woman it was important that I took the time to discover who I truly was. Not what family or friends thought I should be, but just me. That time came after the passing of my Father. I was forced to take a deep look and ask myself “Who are you really?” As I journeyed through the beginning stages of the grief process I discovered many hidden talents (cooking, writing, and speaking) that are all working together in an interesting process to grow my musical gift and brand even more. It is important that we make an intentional decision to use all of our gifts and talents. Being fully aware of who you are and what you can offer have been key components in the opportunities that have come my way.

Another important factor that took me years to learn and implement were boundaries. Many of us journey through life with the fear of saying “No”. I have accepted that every opportunity is not my opportunity, even if it is offered. Learning to live with healthy boundaries truly allows you to be yourself and grow into an ever better you.


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.
As a creative it can be challenging because we do not want to be put in a box. The motto for my business is “Living unboxed and unrestrained” because being a vocalist does not mean that is all I can do. Creatives want to be able “create freely”. As a multifaceted woman it is my goal every day to simply be authentic. I believe that people can see through a “life salesman”. For all that this word has been through lately humans are craving authenticity.


If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I am foodie at heart. I love trying different types of cuisines and I will definitely eat at the same place multiple times if it is delicious. So, when my sisters or friends come to town a Philly cheesesteak from Gutbusters is a must, and wings from Atlanta Best Wings in Decatur. For Brunch on Sundays I am cooking or Rusans on Caroline Street is a treat I know they would love.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My Family

I have to say that my siblings and I could not be any more different but at each stage of the journey I have received words of encouragement and even correction from my family. All from a place of love. They not only support with their words but if a song or new menu item comes out they are purchasing without a doubt and yelling it from the rooftops. My Parents, Aunt Marva, and Aunt Deborah have played a huge role in the thick skin I have developed. My strength comes from them.

Website: Kymestri.com

Instagram: @KFontenetteIAM

Twitter: @KFontenetteIAM

Facebook: Kimberly D. Fontenette

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/KFontlab

Other: AllThingsGumbo.com

Image Credits
Bathing Suit and Red Dress Photographer: Calvin Finklea MakeUp: Toney Stylez Recording Photos with blue dress; Elite Media Studios Photographer for Food and me in the kitchen: India Albritton

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