Meet Kellyn Hernandez | Business Owner and Creative Strategist

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

Hi Kellyn, how do you think about risk?
I think about risk as a necessary step toward growth and success. If you view risk in a positive light, it becomes a tool for progress rather than something to fear. Fear can keep you stagnant, holding you back from the steps needed to reach your goals. Even when it’s intimidating, taking risks is essential because it often leads to opportunities and lessons that shape your future in ways you can’t predict.

Risk-taking has played a transformative role in my life and career. At 19, I took a significant leap of faith by starting KellsXBoutique out of my college dorm room. I invested my savings into a business idea without knowing if it would succeed. I risked money, time, and energy, but those initial steps gave me invaluable experiences, lessons, and opportunities that outweigh any challenges I’ve faced.

Starting a business from scratch at such a young age taught me resilience, adaptability, and strategic thinking. It also introduced me to a network of people who believed in my vision, including mentors, classmates, and collaborators who helped me along the way. The journey wasn’t always easy, but every risk I took—whether it was launching a new collection, hosting pop-up events, or putting my brand in front of unfamiliar audiences—has brought me closer to my goals and helped me grow as a person and an entrepreneur.

For entrepreneurs and small business owners, risk is inevitable, but it’s also what propels you forward. The key is to take calculated risks while staying true to your vision. Even if the outcome isn’t exactly what you hoped for, every step teaches you something valuable. As long as you stay committed, do the work, and embrace those moments of uncertainty, the results will follow. Without taking risks, you may never fully realize your potential or reach the heights you’re capable of.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
KellsXBoutique is a reflection of my passion for fashion, creativity, and community. What sets us apart is our dedication to creating collections that resonate with diverse audiences while maintaining a personal touch. I’m proud of the journey I’ve taken, starting this business at just 19 years old from my college dorm room in California, and growing it into a brand that has connected with so many people across different cities.

The journey hasn’t been easy. Like any entrepreneur, I’ve faced challenges—slow sales, moments of doubt, and the constant pressure to stand out in a competitive industry. However, I’ve embraced these obstacles as opportunities to learn and grow. By staying resilient, strategic, and open to feedback, I’ve been able to overcome these hurdles and continue building a brand that reflects my values and vision.

My story is deeply tied to my roots. Although I was born in Los Angeles, I was raised in Atlanta, Georgia, and that experience shaped so much of who I am. I’ve always loved Atlanta’s culture, food, and fashion, and even after moving to California for college, Atlanta remains a part of me. Every time I visit, I bring merchandise with me, and I’m so grateful to my Atlanta audience for their unwavering support—I always sell out when I’m there! Many of the models I’ve worked with are also based in Atlanta, further highlighting the city’s influence on my brand.

Through KellsXBoutique, I aim to tell a story of perseverance, creativity, and connection. To the world, I want people to know that my brand isn’t just about fashion—it’s about celebrating individuality, building community, and staying true to your roots while evolving and growing. Every collection I create is a labor of love, and I’m excited to keep sharing my journey with all of you.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Day 1: Arrival & Relaxed Start
Morning: Pick them up and enjoy a casual breakfast at Toast on Lenox, known for its mouthwatering brunch dishes and vibrant ambiance.
Afternoon: Head to Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza for some upscale shopping and window browsing. Stop by Capital One Café for a mid-afternoon coffee and a quick recharge.
Evening: Wind down with dinner at South City Kitchen in Midtown, serving classic Southern cuisine with a modern twist.

Day 2: Exploring the Beltline
Morning: Start the day with breakfast at Home Grown GA, a cozy diner offering classic Southern comfort food.
Afternoon: Spend time walking along the Atlanta Beltline, stopping at Ponce City Market for shopping, rooftop games, and drinks with a skyline view.
Evening: Enjoy dinner and cocktails at Nine Mile Station, a rooftop beer garden at Ponce City Market.

Day 3: Sports & Entertainment
Morning: Begin with a hearty breakfast at Atlanta Breakfast Club, a favorite for locals and visitors.
Afternoon: Head to The Battery Atlanta at Truist Park (home of the Braves). Explore its many restaurants, bars, and entertainment spots like Punch Bowl Social or The Yard House.
Evening: Catch a Braves game or relax with live music at Terrapin Taproom.

Day 4: Day Trip to Avalon
Morning: Take a short drive to Avalon in Alpharetta. Enjoy breakfast at First Watch or Cafe Intermezzo.
Afternoon: Stroll the outdoor mall, shop, and grab lunch at Colletta, an Italian-inspired eatery.
Evening: End the day with dinner and drinks at CRÚ Food & Wine Bar or catch a movie at the luxury Regal Avalon theater.

Day 5: Atlanta’s History & Culture
Morning: Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park and Ebenezer Baptist Church.
Afternoon: Stop by the Sweet Auburn Curb Market for lunch and unique local finds.
Evening: Dine at Old Lady Gang, a vibrant soul food restaurant by the stars of The Real Housewives of Atlanta.

Day 6: Nature & Relaxation
Morning: Take a trip to Piedmont Park and enjoy coffee and breakfast at Park Tavern overlooking the park.
Afternoon: Visit the Atlanta Botanical Garden to admire its seasonal displays.
Evening: Have a relaxed dinner at Ecco Midtown, known for its Mediterranean-inspired menu.

Day 7: Farewell Day
Morning: Wrap up with breakfast at Flying Biscuit Café.
Afternoon: Spend the last few hours exploring quirky shops in Little Five Points or visiting the High Museum of Art for a final cultural experience.
Evening: Enjoy farewell drinks at SkyLounge, a rooftop bar with a stunning view of the city skyline.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to the incredible people who have been part of my journey and helped shape KellsXBoutique into what it is today. First and foremost, my mother deserves all the credit for always believing in me and supporting my dreams. She has been my rock through every high and low, encouraging me to push forward even when things felt uncertain.

My undergraduate professors also played a pivotal role in my growth. They gave me opportunities to explore my ideas and helped me understand how to develop and present business strategies. From crafting marketing plans to showcasing my business as a capstone project, their guidance made a lasting impact on my confidence and skills.

I also want to recognize my friends, models, and customers, who are the heart of KellsXBoutique. My friends have supported me in so many meaningful ways—attending events, shopping my collections, and even giving me a follow on social media. Their encouragement has meant the world to me. The models who have collaborated with me over the years deserve so much appreciation for bringing my collections to life with their creativity and style. And, of course, my customers—whether they’ve been with me since the start or recently discovered my brand—are the reason I do what I do. Their love, loyalty, and support have been everything.

Each person who has contributed to my journey, big or small, has played a role in my success. Whether it was believing in my vision, offering encouragement, or supporting my business, I am deeply grateful to everyone who has been part of this story. You all inspire me to keep striving and growing every day.

Website: https://kellsxboutique.com

Instagram: kellsxboutique and kellynanahi

Image Credits
Kellyn Hernandez