#CLTInspreneurs: McKenna Bleu
Meet McKenna, blogger
McKenna, is a fresh 32 year old founder of McKennaBleu.com. She enjoys silence in Target, 70 degree & above weather, bright colors, pizza with meat, a hefty pour of Cabernet, 90’s R&B slow jams and familiar faces. She’s a blogger and a professional wing-it kind of girl. I cuss a lot, but clean up well. I usually see the glass half full and stay away from Debbie downers.
Owner:
About:
McKennaBleu.com is fun, colorful and adorable. It’s been a fun creative outlet that’s grown and evolved over the past five years. Covers everything from fashion, home decor, and travel- a colorful adventure is always my main focus!
What is a typical day like for you?
It depends on the week really but I spend a ton of my time behind my computer despite how social my Instagram seems. I spend most mornings answering emails, negotiating contracts and prepping for brand collaborations. I also get distracted by shiny things, so I may end up at happy hour sooner than most. Not mad at it!
Favorite part about being an entrepreneur?
The creative freedom! Being able to be your own boss, set your own schedule and create your own magic is a dream job. Building relationships with brands I love and admire is one of the most rewarding parts of my job for sure.
Least favorite?
Def the business side of things, organizing expenses, paying taxes all that boring stuff creative brains hate doing.
What did you do before you went out on your own?
I was an Aveda Hairstylist who wore all black, how times have changed!
Why did you pick Charlotte as the home of your business?
I grew up in Charlotte, a rare breed! Does that make me a unicorn because I’m down for that title!
What inspired you to go out on your own?
Why the hell not! I worked full time and built my blog on the nights and weekends. As my following began to increase so did the brand collaborations so I figured I would give it a go. It’s amazing how much I grew that year! When you put your full focus into something, you always find a way to make it work. Forever grateful for that leap.
What do you do when you’re not working?
I’m a lover of eating outdoors, a cold beer, laughter, good company, live music and traveling everywhere I can.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from being out on your own?
Finding balance. It takes work, dedication and sacrifice to build a brand, especially one you’re proud of. Finding the balance to know when to turn it off and be present is a struggle everyday. It is the most important thing for me at this point in my life, I want my best memories to be made off line.
Talk about a time you failed big time and what you did next.
Can’t think of anything worth sharing :/
Who do you look up to or look to for inspiration/advice?
My brother. He’s been my biggest cheerleader my whole life. When I’m wrong, being lazy or just need a kick in the ass, he puts me back in my place. It’s important to have people like that in your life, only because it comes from love and I’m forever grateful to have someone in my life to help me maintain that balance.
What’s your motto, or some words you live by?
If you get a chance, take it. If it changes your life, let it.
What advice would you offer to someone who wants to be an entrepreneur?
Give it all you got! If it’s something you truly love it will succeed, your drive and passion for your brand will be worth the fight.
Where can people stalk ya?
What’s your “power color”?
Pink! Always and forever.
A Note from BW on McKenna…
We chose McKenna to represent the entrepreneurial BLOG space. It’s not everyday you meet someone who’s created a totally authentic following, turned it into a business, moved from place to place all the while growing it, and… stayed entirely down to earth. We really admire McKenna’s passion for life, style, the community she’s built and are happy to have her back in Charlotte.
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