Rising Stars: Meet Amy Appleton of Crossroads

Today we’d like to introduce you to Amy Appleton.

Hi Amy , it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
After growing up in independence and finishing college I began to soul search by traveling and backpacking all over the world. It really inspired me creatively connecting with other cultures, not just visually but also emotionally. I have always felt a strong love for our planet and all thr people who inhabit it. It taught me to accept all walks of life outside of our own while getting a global education you simply can’t find in a classroom. . I have always loved fashion as a way to express myself creatively, I say it’s how i translate my soul to the outside of my body. I started a fashion blog in 2012 while trying to get pregnant and it turned into so much more than I could have ever dreamed. Modeling, styling, art direction, writing for magazine… NYFW… meeting some of my favorite people and eventually opening my own business Blackbird collection.
A sustainable lifestyle concept in kc.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
When I first decided to open my shop I had no idea that I would soon be getting a divorce and having my kids full time to manage while opening a business… which I had no idea was so difficult as I have Never done it. I was a waitress, a stay home mom and a creative. . Every day was something new while I was simultaneously experiencing one of the most difficult personal situations of my entire life, I had thought the business would be a fun way to fill a creative passion but it quickly turned into a more serious project as I no longer had the funds i expected to run it… which ultimately served me well in the long run,

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I have a social media that focuses on fashion/interiors and activism. Stepsofstyle

I have 2 kids 11-5 plus 3 step

I have a retail business blackbird
We sell intentional fashion and interiors focusing on sustainability. High end vintage, custom furniture, men’s and women’s fashion, rugs, and local artists.

Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
I love what I do so it never feels like work.
I love working. With other inspiring people who are creatives and equally passionate.
I also LOVE all things good in this world.., from using our money to support marginalized designers and groups, supporting women through events and building community.
I feel really grateful to get to do what I’m doing so it will always be with great joy that I keep going everyday no matter what personal struggles I have.

Contact Info:

• Website: http://blackbirdcollection.com/
• Instagram: Shopblackbirdcollection
• Facebook: Blackbird Collection