Conversations with Krystle Hamilton

Today we’d like to introduce you to Krystle Hamilton.

Hi Krystle, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
In every difficult stage in my life when I feel overwhelmed, anxiety, confusion I like to organize my space and thoughts. I’ve always used a planner through my academic career, but I didn’t see the real benefit until I was faced with adversities that were out of my control. In 2008, my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer and I had to help with the care of her with her chemotherapy/radiology treatments, oncology and primary appointments. At that time, I was in Graduate School and working two jobs. I needed some structure because emotionally, I was a wreck. My mother was definitely my best friend and this was a scary time. My dean told me to drop out of school, but for me that wasn’t an option. So, I bought a simple planner from Walmart and planned everything out to help me keep track of her appointments, my assignments and work schedules. I’m glad I did because I was able to graduate on time and she was able to be there to see me graduate in 2009. Eventually, she passed in 2010 due to her cancer coming back a second time.

Two years ago, my father was diagnosed with colon cancer and it was the same thing. But this time, I was a wife and mother. My stepmother had given me a schedule for my days to help care for my father and take him to his appointments. I needed a good planner because my schedule was once again stacked with obligations. On the search for the perfect planner, I noticed everything was either black or extremely colorful. I wanted something in the middle that was professional but still had a personality. The idea was formed but wasn’t kicked into fruition until after my father passed a couple of months later.

In 2019, Pretty Planner Co. was my pain to purpose! I prayed and every financial blessing I received was invested into the company. Google and YouTube were my best friends, lol. I taught myself how to use Adobe applications, my cousin Candy built the site, I bought samples and didn’t look back!

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Some parts of the road have been smooth and others have been like consistently climbing an uphill battle. I will say the road has been interesting learning new facts and information. Frustrating when things don’t go your way. Disappointing if you don’t get the customer response or support you thought you would. Scary financially investing into a business when you’re a mother. Apprehensive when you’re an artist and are scared to see how the market reacts to a product that you spent time and resources to create. I have to sacrifice many nights of sleep and early mornings because I still work a full-time job as well. My little family means the world to me, so I have to maintain normalcy for my girls and husband as well.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My Graduate Degree is in Public Administration, with an emphasis in Urban Planning. I have been in the public sector for almost 12 years. My most recent position is a Senior Underwriter, which entails me to manage multiple projects at one time. Right up my alley (lol). Although I have been in a more “structured” environment (career-wise), I love keeping my mind creative. I used to own a home and office organizing business, Pretty Organized KC and when the pandemic happened, I decided to aggressively pursue the planner company and nix the organizing company. I also used to want to own a magazine, mobile boutique, become a professional fashion stylist (and actually applied to volunteer for NYFW prior to Grad School).

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Having a mentor and networking is imperative for growth. My biggest advice about finding or having a mentor is to completely ignore what you want your mentor to look like. My mentor is a white male that has no interest in using a pink planner, lol. However, he has opened many doors and given me the best business-related advice. I went through SCORE here locally in Kansas City, and they assigned me a great free mentor.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.prettyplanco.com
• Instagram: www.Instagram.com/pretty_planner_co
• Facebook: www.Facebook.com/PrettyPlannerCo