Published on December 15th, 2022.

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristi Thomas.

Hi Kristi, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?

Nine years ago, I experienced my greatest fear and joy. I had my son at 24 weeks, after being given four days to live, and after spending 101 days in the NICU, I was able to bring him home. He was later diagnosed with cerebral palsy. After years of countless surgeries and medical appointments, I have realized that the years ahead will require me to be even MORE active in my child’s day-to-day life to ensure that I maximize his ability to live his best life possible. I knew I would need employment that would allow me to provide for him financially and also spend the time with him that he needs. I’ve always been interested in anything that makes me stand out, so I’ve always gotten custom shirts made for various occasions.

One day, a good friend told me I could make the shirts myself; it took me a while but finally, K and R Creations, LLC started. I bought equipment and watched videos; what started as a hobby became an official business on February 23, 2018. I didn’t know the first thing about running a business but I knew I wanted it to be fun and profitable. I have learned so much of the past three years, and with any new business, there have definitely been highs and lows. I have an amazing support system that helps me with the late nights and early mornings. Today I have had orders of 1 shirt to orders of 100, of course, working out of my home can be nerve wrecking but I wouldn’t trade the time I get to spend with the ones I love, doing work that truly brings me joy. While I enjoy working in healthcare, I can’t wait until the day when I can fully invest in myself.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?

Smooth road? Not in the least. I have wanted to quit more times than not. The majority of the struggles have been within. I’m a huge perfectionist and sometimes I need to reject orders just for my sanity. However, I like to be the “go-to” person, so turning down work can be difficult. I’m big on having excellent customer service and providing a fast turnaround time. That will not change anytime soon.

As you know, we’re big fans of K and R Creations. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?

I run a small home-based business that provides in quality customized t-shirts with a personal touch. I specialize in t-shirts related to special events, current events, birthdays, holidays, and more. I am set apart from others because I am able to provide quality products at a price and turned around in a time frame most aren’t. I am especially proud of my ability to retain repeat business with customers in an overly saturated market. I would love for customers and potential customers to know that even if they don’t have a clear or complete idea, I’m able to use their suggestions, my creative skills, and a wide variety of tools to come up with something they’ll absolutely love.

What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?

The most important lesson I’ve learned is to KEEP GOING. There are going to be times where things just don’t go right, and that’s okay. I have a tendency to be really hard on myself, I’m getting better at realizing I’m human and as long as I don’t give up and give it my best, I’m good.

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