Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelly Burgess.
Hi Kelly, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My love for affordable, comfortable fashion that transitions seamlessly through every stage of life. I was a teacher when I started, so finding stylish pieces that didn’t break the bank was essential. I wanted clothes that could work for a workday in the classroom and easily carry over into the weekend!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Definitely not a smooth road, but always a fun one! Trying to match current trends and styles, while also predicting what is coming next is the most challenging.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Elizabeth Kelly is an online and multi-location boutique created for women who want effortless, stylish, and budget-friendly fashion for every stage of life. I founded the brand back in June 2016 while working as a teacher, out of a genuine desire to find clothes that were comfortable, versatile, and high-quality without breaking the bank.
We specialize in elevated, everyday style—pieces that take you seamlessly from morning drop-offs or work in the classroom to weekend events, date nights, and everything in between. We’re best known for our amazingly soft signature basics, easy-to-style layers, and accessories that instantly refresh any wardrobe without needing a total closet overhaul.
What truly sets us apart is relatability and real-life function. Because I curate every piece through the lens of a mom and former educator, I test every single item for comfort, wearability, and mix-and-match versatility. We don’t just sell clothes; we show our customers how to style one new top or cardigan with staples they already own so they get maximum value out of their closet.
I am most proud of the community I’ve built over the last eight-plus years. Seeing a customer put on an outfit and immediately light up with confidence—knowing she feels amazing—is the ultimate reward. I’m also immensely proud of expanding our physical footprint across great local artisan spaces and vendor events while keeping our online store accessible 24/7.
Fashion should feel fun, easy, and approachable! Whether you shop with us in person at one of our Kansas City area boutique partner spaces (like Queen Bee Boutiques, KC Style Haus, Artisan’s Corner on Wall, Urban Edge, or coming soon to The Collective Boutiques in Overland Park) or browse online at shopelizabethkelly.com, you’re getting hand-curated pieces, picked specifically with you in mind.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
My absolute favorite way to network has been participating in local vendor events and pop-ups. When you’re working side-by-side with other small business owners, you share an instant bond—you understand the behind-the-scenes hustle, the triumphs, and the challenges. Some of my best informal mentorships and business friendships started simply by chatting with neighboring vendors, sharing tips, cross-promoting, and supporting each other’s growth.
Equally important to me is networking with my shoppers. Vendor events give me face-to-face time to really listen to my customers, hear what they’re looking for, and build genuine relationships beyond just a transaction.
My advice: Don’t overthink networking or look for a formal setup right away. Just show up in your local community, start conversations with people whose work you admire, and lead with genuine connection. Your best mentors and business allies are often the ones sitting right next to you at a market booth!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://shopelizabethkelly.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/shopelizabethkelly
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/shopelizabethkelly
