We had the good fortune of connecting with Kendra Black and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kendra, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
After finally deciding to share my book reviews and recommendations online in 2018 via KayBee’s Bookshelf, I started to receive requests for different literary services on a more consistent basis outside of those offerings. Up until that point,  any commissioned services that I performed had been acquired by referral over the last 7 years or so. I had operated as a freelance VA (Virtual Assistant) years ago and thought why not branch off from my Bookstagram and Blog and offer the services that were being requested on an almost weekly basis. Once, I paired down the most sought-after services and the type of VA I wanted to be, I created KB Squared Media & Virtual Services. 

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My business has three elements to it that provide a set of boutique services while aiming to shine the spotlight on the literary community in a way that I hope encourages and supports literature and entrepreneurship.  Through KayBee’s Bookshelf, I aim to support the literary community through book reviews, featured promotions, sharing, following, and recommending their work. Through KB Squared Media, my goal is to help them level up and increase not only their digital footprint but their revenue goals and forge a career that can go the distance with a personal touch. Through the bookstore, KayBee’s Bookshelf | The Home of Bougie & Bookish Things Bookstore, my goal is to shine a spotlight on the Indie community by featuring their work through live readings, providing informative series hosted by industry experts all while offering merchandise that allows a reader to create their very own reading nook for an unforgettable reading experience. I’m currently building the inventory by working directly with Indie Authors to get their work in the store. You will also be able to purchase the favorites that you find in major retailers. The store will only be opened only online for now. 

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I am introverted, so being in my own space is where I am. However, if I have to venture out, you will find me at a bookstore. Boring, I know lol and I accept it. That being said, I would tell them to check out Downtown Houston and Sugarland Town Square there is always something going on. Houston has a lot of hidden gems like The Menil Collection, Buffalo Soldiers National Museum, Miller Outdoor Theater.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to dedicate my shout-out to my son, who challenges me on everything and forces me to think outside of the box. Tamara B, Tiffany L, Vandar G.-these ladies encourage and believe in me even when I start to doubt myself. And lastly, my charmed ones (Darlene & Imani) and Jeff D make me feel valued and that my voice matters even when they want to cover their ears.

Website: https://www.kaybeesbookshelf.com/ and https://www.kbsquaredmedia.com/

Instagram: @kaybeesbookshelf @kbsquaredmedia

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kendra-black-a44084208/

Twitter: @kaybeesbooks

Facebook: @kaybeesbookshelf

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