From Boutique Retail to Kinj Collective: A Decade-Long Journey of Passion and Persistence

A decade ago, Keira Bruecks embarked on a transformative journey into the world of fashion, commencing with a part-time job at a boutique at the age of 16. Unbeknownst to her, this experience would serve as the foundation for a career that seamlessly merged her love for clothing and accessories with a keen understanding of the business side of the industry.

Educational Pursuits:

After immersing herself in the world of retail, Keira's passion for fashion led her to pursue a degree in Fashion Merchandising. In 2019, she proudly graduated from Immaculata University with a degree in Fashion Merchandising and a minor in marketing. Throughout her academic journey, Keira seized every opportunity to gain hands-on experience, from volunteering at events like Oscar de la Renta Market Week to creating and presenting projects for esteemed brands such as Laura Geller and United by Blue.

Connecting the Dots:

Keira's sophomore year marked a pivotal moment when she joined another boutique, an experience that eventually connected her with the renowned jewelry brand Lisi Lerch. Two enriching internships with this jewelry company not only deepened her understanding of the industry but also provided the opportunity to attend the Atlanta Gift Show—a dynamic wholesale sourcing destination.

The Birth of Keira Nicole Jewelry:

Simultaneously, during that transformative sophomore year, Keira explored her creative side by handmaking jewelry in her dorm room. Thus, Keira Nicole Jewelry was born, affectionately nicknamed 'knj' by friends. Though she eventually phased out of jewelry-making, the 'knj' moniker stayed with her, becoming a symbol of her creative roots.

Curating KINJ COLLECTIVE:

Fast forward to 2020, a year that saw the inception of a persistent idea—the creation of an online store. Fueled by her passion and armed with research, Keira christened the venture Kinj Collective. The name, a nod to her earlier jewelry-making days, encapsulates her journey, now with an added 'i' for pronunciation ease.

Vision and Launch:

Fall 2021 marked the official launch of Kinj Collective. The vision behind the store was clear—to showcase and celebrate quality and unique products, predominantly sourced from women-owned brands. It was about creating a space where these brands could shine and be appreciated by discerning customers.

Two Years of Growth:

For over two years, Kinj Collective has been more than a business venture—it's been a journey of learning, creating, and connecting for Keira. Moments of overwhelming happiness reaffirm that this path was meant for her. None of this would be possible without the unwavering support of friends, family, and even strangers who continue to believe in her. To all of them, Keira is incredibly grateful.

The journey from a teenage retail job to the proud owner of Kinj Collective has been a tapestry of experiences, learnings, and growth for Keira Bruecks. As she continues to navigate the ever-evolving world of fashion, Keira looks forward to bringing more unique and quality products to the forefront, guided by the lessons and love that have shaped this remarkable journey.

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