Today we’d like to introduce you to Kina Gunnels.
Hi Kina, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m a mom of two boys, a wife of 16 years, an SEO strategist, and a storyteller at heart—whether that’s through books, fashion, luxury, or travel. Before influencers were even called influencers back in the early 2000s, I was already doing it—getting free merch and posting content without the title. Fast forward to May 2023, I launched my bookstagram, diving back into reading and creating a space to share reviews, thoughts, and book photography. But I didn’t stop there. I seamlessly blended my love for books with lifestyle content and built something bigger than I imagined! I am now active on TikTok and YouTube as well as my Instagram.
Now, I’m doing it all—from paid partnerships to travel gigs, living fully in this creator space. This year has been one for the books..literally! I joined the media team for Kansas City Fashion Week, attended the YouTube Creator event in KC, attended Black Romance Book Fest in Atlanta as a content creator & special guest for an exclusive event, and soon, I’ll be headed to Houston for Books on the Ground as an influencer.
Every opportunity reminds me that it’s never too late to chase what sets your soul on fire and at 43, I’m loving every bit of this journey!
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?
No matter what you’re chasing, there will always be challenges, and for me, time is the biggest one. Between being a wife, mom, SEO strategist, and content creator, balancing it all can feel like a never-ending hustle. From events to tastings to brand collaborations, it’s exciting, but let’s be real…it can get exhausting! And that’s before you even get to editing, creating, and posting the content. I have had unwavering support from my husband which has been amazing!
The key? Scheduling & prioritizing like a pro! Learning how to make the most of every moment, set boundaries, and work smarter (not harder!) is the only way to keep going without burning out. Because when you’re passionate about what you do, you make it work!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a content creator with a love for it all—books, travel, fashion, and sports! Whether I’m catching the energy at a WNBA or NBA game, or breaking down the latest book that had me hooked, I’m all about sharing my POV, passions, and experiences with others. More than anything, I’m proud of just doing it and turning what I love into something real, pushing myself, growing, and making it successful. This journey has been amazing, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything!
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
If anyone is looking to collab or work with me, they can reach out via Instagram or email. I love connecting with brands, creatives, and fellow book lovers and content creators! Oh, and exciting news—I just had bookmarks and stickers made, and they’ll be live on Etsy soon, so stay tuned for all the goodies!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nailzandnovelz
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@nailzandnovelz
- Other: https://www.TikTok.com/@nailzandnovelz
