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

Hi Kilby, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I too, like many, believe there is no risk then no reward. The question I always ask myself is this: What happens if I don’t move? That question alone has pushed me to take every leap in my life. I don’t see risk as fear. I see it as opportunity. Every time I stepped out of something that limited me or walked into an opportunity before I felt fully prepared, my life shifted in the right direction. Risk has shaped my confidence, my path, and the way I show up in the world. Choosing me and my ideas first, even when it’s uncomfortable, has always brought me closer to the life I’m meant to live.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
What sets me apart is my inquisitiveness, my ability to adapt, and my natural instinct to create, support, and elevate whatever space I’m in. I’ve always been grateful to have a wide range of talents. I have a sharp eye for design, an intuitive understanding of people, and a genuine passion to express creativity in this lifetime.

I’m most proud of myself and how I’ve shaped my life in spite of the circumstances I’ve faced. I learned early that no matter how difficult things get, it’s still my responsibility to create a brighter future, not just for myself, but for anyone connected to me. That mindset grounds me daily.

My professional journey started when I was a teenager, serving as an assistant to entrepreneurs, church officials, and community leaders across different industries. Those early years taught me business administration, office operations, discipline, and financial exposure. What I now know is that those experiences gave me something deeper — a real understanding of servitude, hosting, event planning, and the kind of wisdom that only comes from being around people who build things. By the time I reached adulthood, I had already been groomed for greater opportunities. I walked into rooms prepared, adaptable, and ready to contribute.

My work today is rooted in listening first and creating with intention. What truly sets me apart is my ability to walk into any environment, an event, a home, a workplace, a celebration — and instantly understand the energy. From there, I naturally begin imagining how to elevate the experience through design, storytelling, and strategy. To me, that’s a talent just like singing, athletics, or playing an instrument. It’s intuitive. It’s instinctive. It’s who I am.

Whenever I enter a space, a concert, a dinner, a funeral, a party, or even a simple gathering — my mind immediately starts creating. I’m analyzing why certain choices were made, whether the theme is cohesive, and how the experience could be enhanced. By the time I leave, I’m deep in thought about what was done well, what could be refined, and how I would bring the entire vision to another level. It’s not something I force; it’s simply the way my mind works.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned along the way is that your journey belongs to you. Life gives each of us a daily assignment of time and attention. What we do with both determines our experience. To me, that’s the foundation of the idea that you truly get out of life what you put in.

What I want people to know about my brand and my story is that “Kilby Anthony” is more than a name, it’s a commitment to elevation. It’s intention, creativity, and care in everything I touch. It’s listening, understanding, and transforming ideas into experiences that feel meaningful. My work is simply a reflection of the way I move through the world.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting Atlanta for a week, I’d take them to the places that really show the city’s energy. We’d spend time at Piedmont Park for fresh air and good views, walk the BeltLine to explore the art and culture, and hit Kat’s Café for live music and a relaxed grown atmosphere. I’d take them to a VR gaming spot for something fun and different, and mix in a little Buckhead and Midtown so they can see both the polished and creative sides of the city. The goal would be simple… good food, good music, real experiences, and the moments that make Atlanta feel alive.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would dedicate my shoutout to the people who poured into me long before I fully saw myself. My godmother, the late Dr. Sylvia, whose love, wisdom, and example still guide me today. My close circle of friends who show up for me in the ways that truly matter. The mentors, clients, and creatives who reminded me that my talent is real and my voice has value. And even the people I’ve had to walk away from, because they pushed me to grow, choose myself, and raise my standards. My journey is a reflection of everyone who helped me stand taller, think bigger, and keep moving forward.

Website: https://KilbyAnthony.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kilbyanthony/

Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/kilbyanthony

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@KilbyAnthony

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