Meet Kelsey Moore

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelsey Moore.

Hi Kelsey, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstories.
My name is Kelsey Moore, I am an 18-year-old KC/Raytown native, entrepreneur, college student at Alabama A&M University, and lover of everything fashion! I started my business Kustomz by Kelz two years ago, but my love of fashion started in the 3rdgrade when I took my first sewing class at school.

I learned I was good at it when my teacher came to my home to let my mom know that I was a natural. I always took FACS (Family and Consumer Science) in middle and high school specifically for the sewing portion, but I didn’t take it seriously until my mom bought my first sewing machine and a Cricut for Christmas when I was 16.

The first thing I made with my sewing machine was stacked leggings; I posted them on social media and began to get requests to make them for other people and that’s how my business was born. I started customizing clothes by making unique t-shirts, pants, and shoes. In addition to making clothes, I thought it would be a good idea to add an everyday streetwear collection to my brand and that’s how my Fear None collection started.

Fear None is easily recognizable by the angry bear graphic and reflective vinyl and is my number 1 seller. I consider myself creative, it’s what I love to do, create. Thankfully I have my mom who teaches me the business side, she makes sure I have my business set up properly and shows me how to choose vendors and negotiate contracts for the best price all while making sure I make a profit. In 2021 my sales increased 400% over the previous year. I attribute my success to the education and most importantly good customer service.

I am currently in school studying fashion design, and I take independent classes to perfect my craft. I come from a family of educators and have always been taught that education is important. I also do a lot of market research on trends to make sure I stay relevant. I think it’s important to keep learning so that you can keep growing.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Being an entrepreneur comes with ups and downs. It isn’t an easy task at all.

I think it helps if you’re passionate about what you’re doing. It would be hard to keep going if it wasn’t something that you love to do. People see what they presume as the glamorous part of running a business, but no one talks about all the time and money you invest.

Trying to find the right balance of school, personal life, and running a business is probably my biggest struggle. There are times when I’m mentally exhausted from schoolwork or just life in general but I have orders to fill or requests for customs to reply to. It gets very overwhelming at times.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Although my Fear None collection is my best seller, my specialty is making clothes.

I love picking out the right fabric and accessories to make the perfect outfit for my client’s special day. I am most proud of my growth and how far I’ve come in the design and execution of outfits. I pride myself on learning new techniques and making sure I meet my customer’s expectations by delivering on their vision.

I think what sets me apart is my customer service, I try to be accommodating and flexible and make sure my customers have a good experience. I also love when I am able to do a total transformation style in addition to creating the outfit, I complete the total look by suggesting hairstyles, shoes, and accessories.

Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
My advice for those just starting out is to stay prayerful. Also, make sure you align yourself with a mentor or a team of people that can help you navigate different scenarios when they arise. Be patient with yourself and passionate about your craft.

Remember to remain humble and understand there is no business without satisfied customers. Also, educate yourself on everything related to your business so you can plan and execute effectively.

Contact Info:

• Email: kustomzbykelz@gmail.com
• Website: www.kustomzbykelz.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kustomzbykelz/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Kustomz-By-Kelz-105585941009981

Image Credits
Niah Rose Photography