Q & A Kaysha Henry-Griffithwith

In 2013, she started her own online business based on Facebook – an accessories store that showcased statement pieces that caught the eyes of many. Gradually, the Facebook page’s fan base kept expanding – and never stopped.

Kaysha’s first tangible store set-up was a pop-up shop type event, which she organised in her hometown, called “Missy Kay’s Trunk Show”. “I invited other small business owners in the community to showcase their products as well and to gain exposure,” she explains the driving force behind organising and hosting the trunk show, “and it turned out to be a success.”

After hosting her successful pop-up event, Kaysha’s sights were set on achieving the dream of her girlhood: owning and running her own boutique.

“After some time of sacrifices and the help of a great support system behind me – my husband, mother, and brother – my dream turned into a reality,” she reveals. In late July 2016, Kaysha hosted the grand opening of her very own store, Missy Kay’s Accessories (facebook.com/missy. kay.accessories), in her hometown of La Brea.

While she has been in business for 4 years, this is the mother’s first storefront boutique, and with a knack for style and statement fashion accessories, she has already tapped into a thriving market on our island’s south side.

Today, Kaysha speaks with WMN about her passion for her career, her pride in starting her first business in her hometown, and her reasons for opening a boutique focused on unique accessories.

Q What inspires your passion for what you do?

I am in love with what I do; I’ve always said that women ought to look their best for all occasions – whether they are mothers, career women, or rocket scientists. So, I enjoy giving advice as to what accessory will suit a particular outfit and a particular person. My number one goal is ensuring that my customers leave satisfied and with a smile on their faces.

Q Tell us more about your business Missy Kay’s Accessories - what services and products do you provide?

Missy Kay’s Accessories provides all customers with stunning statement jewelry. We carry accessories and knick-knacks that can fit any personality, occasion, and style. Our products include necklace and earring sets, bracelets, rings, clutches, handbags, and women’s clothing, all with a unique flair that is sure to make you stand out and feel good.

Q Why did you decide to focus on an accessories store?

I always had a thing for fashion and statement pieces – accessories are one of my “go-to” style items because they can complete and pull together a look seamlessly. You can be wearing the simplest dress but by adding a statement necklace to your outfit, the beauty of the woman is highlighted even more.

Accessories are like armor; they can help you feel protected and more confident. One of my mottos, as a woman, is you can never have enough accessories. The products are always in demand. The trends in accessories also change frequently and I have always been at the head of the game when it comes to keeping up with the new and popular styles.

Q Who is your target market, and can you tell us about the trends you’ve witnessed among your own customers?

My target market is based on all women, young and old. At Missy Kay’s, we carry pieces that all women can connect with and feel proud to wear. And just as my pieces are all handpicked and unique, my customers are all unique in their own way. I see them as the trendsetters. They love to mix and match to create their own style.

Q You are located in La Brea – how does your location influence and inspire your business?

Being located in my hometown - especially having a storefront - brightens up the community. It adds something new, offers ease and access to residents, and can inspire community members to open other small businesses.

There are a lot of small business owners in the community and visitors are sometimes shocked to see how much the area has developed in recent years and I am proud to be a part of this development in my community. Having a fashion accessories store in the area makes it more convenient for customers who are residents of the community. We also help save them the trouble of going through “Trinidad Traffic” to the mall!

Q What are some of the best-selling accessories and items at Missy Kay’s and what are some of your favourite items?

Some of the best-selling accessories are our statement necklaces. Personally, I’m in love with unusual and chunky pieces.

Q What’s Missy Kay’s Accessories’ best selling points? Why should customers check you out?

Our best selling points are the statement pieces and unusal women’s clothing – believe me when I say, there is something for everyone. We live up to our tagline, “Elegant. Impressive. Affordable.” You’re guaranteed to walk away satisfied.

Q Last words or thoughts?

I am beyond blessed and grateful for where I am today as a young entrepeneur. The road is not easy, I had a lot of obstacles to cross to reach to where I am at now, but by the grace of God and the support of my loved ones, I have accomplished a lot. I always try to encourage others who are interested in starting their own businesses and being their own boss to not to give up on their dream. Put it into reality. We must all start small at first but the sky is the limit.