Today we’d like to introduce you to Kris Lard.
Hi Kris, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Originally from North Alabama, I relocated to the Nashville area in 2016 and have been working in digital marketing and PR here ever since.
I’ve always been multi-passionate and creative but consistently enjoyed helping others build their brands and businesses through unique, experiential, and organic marketing. I’ve worked with many types of businesses, from Fortune 500 companies to small mom-and-pop shops to entertainers, creators, and in travel.
I love being a part of a bigger mission, from the conception of a brand or business to the take-off and seeing the success of each. I have always been mission-driven, have worked with non-profits in the past, and believe making a positive impact on others is important.
I’ve always been entrepreneurial-minded – I’d say it runs in the family! The idea to start my online home decor shop, called Light The Kingdom, came from my passion to design and create beautiful products, but also have meaning and give back to others. I love curating spaces in the home that represent love and peace. Over at Light The Kingdom, we sell candles and home decor, where a portion of all proceeds go to local and global non-profits each month. We are continuing to grow and expand our products each season.
I’ve enjoyed partnering with influencers and other creators to build awareness and grow the company this year! In 2023, we’ve been able to help support numerous non-profits each month through our sales and be included in sponsorship for events for Nashville-based non-profit, Dream Streets, as well as Holos Hope’s 2nd annual benefit, which is a sister program part of Thistle Farms here in Nashville.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I believe there are bumps in the road in everyone’s story, but this is the true redirection getting each of us closer to our destiny. I’ve certainly faced growing pains in my career and business through the years. There are days you think “Why am I even trying to do this?” But it is always worth it with each accomplishment and milestone.
While many men and women are building their businesses these days, there are still plenty of “naysayers” and those people who aren’t super supportive, who don’t understand the “why” behind what you do.
I have tried to take these moments as learning opportunities for myself and others, both in how I respond and how I choose to move forward with my circle of influence. I have been blessed to have a close circle of family and friends who support me no matter what. I believe it’s also important to keep business relationships and friendships positive after working together. You never know when your paths will cross again!
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I have always enjoyed the creative process – from the inception of a business idea to the finished product – and beyond, to watching the successes of businesses I’ve helped.
I have been blessed to work in many aspects of building brands, from creative and graphic design to brand messaging, budgeting, marketing, and public relations. I believe my diligence, genuine passion, and dedication to the projects and people I believe in sets me apart. It gets me to the finish line every time!
We love surprises, fun facts, and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
I have created and managed everything myself for the company. I’m a bit of a “bootstrapper” in business. I’m sure there are some aspects of the business I should hand off sooner rather than later…
Also, the company is completely faith-based. Faith and spirituality are very important to me, so I was very excited to launch a business centered around spreading positivity surrounding faith and spirituality.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.lightthekingdom.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/lightthekingdomshop
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/lightthekingdomshop
