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

Hi Kaye, can you share the most important lesson you’ve learned over the course of your career?
I would say it is trust and believe in yourself. You will run into people that try and belittle your business or idea because they are scared to go out on faith and trust their own plan. You will run into road blocks along the way to success and if you aren’t solid in yourself you might give in. You were given a gift/talent, but its on you to hone in on it and make it pop. Nobody will go hard for your dreams more than you. No matter what TRUST IN YOURSELF !

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Unpopular career choices, but I have a 9-5 and run a successful business. I honestly still love my 9-5 not just because of the security of money and benefits, but also I love the industry I’m in. I have been in the auto industry for about 8 years now and if I never leave to pursue Onyx 100% I’ll probably retire somewhere in the industry. One thing that I am working on is work/life balance. I am really big on my time being my time. Trying to balance a 9-5 and a 5-12 with a social life can get overwhelming. I am consciously working on finding balance everyday. Some days are easier than others, but having a planner and sticking to the plan is helping. I want people to know my brand and story because we hear time and time again that you have to choose between running a successful business and working a 9-5. At some point in your life you probably will have to sacrifice one for the other, but it’s still possible to do both. Don’t be pressured by the it’s either or folks in the world. make the choice when it’s right for you and don’t be ashamed by still having a 9-5.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Whewww Atlanta is full of hotspots. A few of my favorite places for food, drinks and a good atmosphere would be Ms. Iceys, Breakfast at Barneys, Rock Steady, Eclipse De Luna. A few places to visit for fun would be Ponce City Market, colony square, High Museum of art First Friday’s and even though I’ve been here many of years…..JACKSON STREET BRIDGE HAHA. For exercise climb Stone Mountain or walk the Beltline

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 like to shoutout out my support system. My parents, close friends and family. Whenever I feel like giving up or issues arise in my business my circle is always there to talk life into my dreams. Also shoutout to Chris, the best photographer in the game! The progression in my creative comfort level is definitely because of him!

Website: www.onyxbykaye.com

Instagram: bella_Kaye

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Onyxbykaye

Image Credits
Chris Montgomery

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