Meet Kara Duke of Nashville

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kara Duke.

Hi Kara, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Absolutely! My journey started with a love for storytelling – through style, culture, and community. As a Nashville native, I’ve always been inspired by the beauty and creativity around me. What started as casually sharing Get Ready With Me videos, local experiences, and my favorite finds turned into something more intentional. That’s how Kara in the City was born-a lifestyle platform that blends fashion, beauty, culture, and purpose.

By day, I am a Director of Development at Meharry Medical College, one of the most prominent HBCUs in the country. It’s truly a passion to help raise scholarship funding and support the next generation of health professionals. What’s special is that I’ve been able to merge my passion for community-building and social media in both spaces – professionally and creatively.

Through consistency, collaboration, and staying rooted in my culture, I’ve built a brand that speaks to authenticity and empowerment, with the invaluable support of my audience. Whether I’m creating content, curating an event, or spotlighting local gems, my brand, Kara in the City, is all about inspiring others to show up confidently, live intentionally, and celebrate the beauty in their journey.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Not at all – but every challenge has helped shape me. One of the biggest struggles has been balancing my full- time career in higher education with growing my personal brand as a content creator. Both require time, creativity, and heart, and learning how to pour into both without burning out has taken real intention.

There were also moments when I doubted myself or felt like I wasn’t moving fast enough. In a world that’s always online and constantly evolving, it’s easy to compare your journey to others. But I’ve learned that consistency and staying authentic to my purpose are more valuable than quick wins.

On top of that, navigating two very different spaces – fundraising and social media – sometimes felt like I was living in two worlds. But over time, I realized it’s actually my superpower. The same skills I use to connect with donors – storytelling, passion and authenticity – are what help me connect with my audience too.

One mantra I keep close is: “You can do both-just not at the same time. Give each moment what it needs, then move with grace.”

That’s how I keep going.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a content creator, event curator, and lifestyle storyteller. I specialize in creating beauty, fashion, and lifestyle content that reflects joy, and confidence. Whether it’s a GRWM video, a branded partnership, or a local event recap, my work is rooted in authenticity and connection.

I’m known for blending style with substance – showing not just what I wear or where I go, but how it makes people feel. I love highlighting local businesses, Nashville Creatives, and culturally relevant experiences. I also use my voice to empower others, especially women, to show up fully in every space they occupy.

In addition to content creation, I’ve had the opportunity to curate and lead some impactful events. I led the planning for Salute to Excellence 2022, where I brought in new sponsors and elevated the event experience. More recently, I produced and secured major sponsorships for the 2024 Salute to Excellence Awards, which honored nonprofit leadership across Middle Tennessee.

One of the things I am most proud of is building a platform that bridges my professional work in fundraising and higher education with my creative life. I’ve planned major events, raised scholarship funds, and created digital content – all while staying true to my voice and vision.

What sets me apart is my ability to create content that’s both visually compelling and deeply rooted in culture, community, and storytelling. I don’t just create for likes-I create to inspire, connect, and uplift.

Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Creating makes me happy-whether I’m styling an outfit, curating an event, filming content, or dreaming up new ways to inspire others. I find so much joy in expressing myself and helping people feel seen and celebrated.

Travel also makes me incredibly happy. Exploring new cities, soaking in different cultures, and finding beauty in unfamiliar places gives me fresh inspiration and reminds me just how big and connected the world really is. That spirit of exploration is a huge part of my brand Kara in the City. Where I share style, lifestyle, and culture through my lens as a Nashville native with a global mindset.

I’m happiest when I’m surrounded by community-laughing with my family, supporting local businesses, or collaborating with fellow creatives. Kara in the City was born out of a desire to merge storytelling, fashion, and culture, and it has grown into a space that celebrates all the things I love most.

And honestly, helping others makes me happy too. Through my work in development at Meharry Medical College, I have the honor of raising funds for students who are changing the world. Knowing that my work-online and offline-can positively impact someone else’s journey is what truly lights me up.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kara_in_thecity?utm_source=qr&igsh=MXh4YXZocDVnN2hxMA==
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kara.duke.39/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karaduke/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@kara_in_thecity
• Other: https://linktr.ee/Karanicole1