Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelsey Hall.
Hi Kelsey, 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?
Sewing has been a part of my life since my early teens. I first learned the craft in home-ec class and from my grandma who sewed clothing and costumes for my family. I’m proud to be part of a lineage of Kansas City seamstresses, including my great-grandmother, who created costumes for Starlight Theater in the 1950s.
While studying business at KU, I discovered I had a deeper love for sewing and I made the decision to commit to honing those skills. I spent the next three years in the manufacturing industry where I learned to design and sew custom bags. This experience taught me that each project requires a unique approach and attention to detail. During that time, I earned the titles of Project Manager and Designer and was recognized for my efficiency as a seamstress.
My entrepreneurial spirit always pushed me toward running my own business and my interest began to shift toward custom upholstery. I knew my first step was to learn more about that, and the dream truly began when I stepped into a local upholstery shop. It was there that I refined my craft in preparation for starting my own business. And in 2018, I started Moon Rider, which I’ve developed from my passion for sewing and custom design.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It’s been a challenge learning to run a small business and all that entails. Especially in the beginning when I was learning about taxes and registering and creating the business. It seemed a big hurdle to get through, right at the beginning of starting Moon Rider.
It can be a lot of pressure to run and maintain the business and also do the actual work and do it well.
Upholstery work can be tedious at times and with it just being me, I sometimes work long hours or weekends.
My work can be niche and I’ve had to learn ways to attract new clients.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Moon Rider?
Moon Rider is a small business where I upholster motorcycle seats, customize auto interiors, and design and manufacture heavy-weight products. I’ve actually coined myself as a “Heavy-weight Seamstress”. From vintage cars to custom chopper seats or the upholstery at your favorite tattoo shop or bar, I specialize in sewing and upholstering projects that are designed to be functional, durable, and uniquely yours
My niche is offering custom vinyl and leather designs and implementing unique stitch work.
I’m all about fun and funky upholstery! I love bringing my client’s ideas to life and creating one-of-a-kind items.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
I operate by appointment only. Readers can contact me at MoonRider.co or follow my work on instagram @m00nrider where I post about my latest projects, new handmade products, and upcoming pop-up events.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.moonrider.co/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/m00nrider
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moonriderkck/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@m00nrider
