It’s another glorious Friday! And it’s time for us to highlight more amazing black entrepreneurs! In Where You Should Be Spending Your Money, we showcase the various businesses available in our community that we can support to inspire you to cycle your very important and all-powerful dollar amongst people that look like you and have YOU in mind. Today’s feature is Shana Ashby-Jobes of KITSPA & Events.
IHTG: Tell us a little about yourself (hometown, family life, etc.).
There’s something about growing up in the hustle and bustle of New York City that forces you to dream. There’s something about being the child of immigrant parents that makes you dream even harder! I’m lucky to be the product of both. From Wall Street bankers to Broadway actors, New York revealed on a daily basis that if you want to be or do something it’s possible. Having West Indian parents taught me to seize opportunities; I’m fully aware sacrifices were made to afford me the freedom to dream, a privilege others elsewhere cannot fathom.
IHTG: What motivated you to start this business?
Indirectly, stress motivated me to start KITSPA & Events. Prior to starting KITSPA I was an IT consultant who was constantly on the road and home only on the weekends. When I was in town I relaxed by going to a spa with my girlfriends. It became my relaxation ritual. While I enjoyed the services the spa offered I didn’t entirely enjoy sharing the amenities with people I didn’t know. That pain point made me yearn for a space that exclusively catered to my friends and I where we can indulge in spa services and laughs. The idea for KITSPA was born. The space that was meant for girlfriend spa parties morphed into a full-fledged event venue due to the overwhelming request to rent the space without the spa services. Hence, KITSPA became KITSPA & Events.
IHTG: Tell us about your business (what product or service do you offer, your typical customer, etc.).
KITSPA & Events is the prettiest event venue in metro-Atlanta. Of course I am biased, but it’s the truth! The cornerstone of KITSPA’s beauty and value is its pre-decorated space that allows guests and hosts alike to walk in the door and begin an event with minimal, if any setup. Moms to be, brides to be, those celebrating a birthday, launching a book, or introducing a product line have chosen KITSPA as their venue of choice due to its intimate nature and beautifully curated décor.
IHTG: How does your business give back to the community?
KITSPA supports not-for profits by offering 503(c) organizations venue discounts. KITSPA also provides community outreach by hosting food, clothing, and blanket drives to benefit downtown Atlanta’s homeless population.
IHTG: What advice would you give to someone considering starting a business?
Seek advice, heed advice, and learn from those who have done what you are trying to do. It is impossible to do it alone. The most important thing you can do, from a time savings and knowledge acquisition perspective, is to ask for help.
IHTG: What is the best advice you’ve received since starting your business?
“Focus less on the money and more on doing good business.” Simple, but so smart. When you know your business inside out, can relay the value your business provides authentically, and deliver on that value a buzz is created and customers begin to seek your services. The money will slowly and then steadily come, but only if you continue to nurture your business.
You can learn more about KITSPA and their services by visiting them online at www.kitspaevents.com.
