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

Hi Michesha, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I’d like to introduce you to Topp Line Kids, the only source for the ultimate cool kids’ apparel and accessories. Our brand exudes style, swag and comfort. I’m also a college professor, mentor, and mother. Topp Line Kids was inspired by my journey through motherhood, more specifically, my rambunctious toddler, Apollo. Becoming a first-time mother at 30 would seem ideal to some but as a newlywed and full-time college professor, I ended up sacrificing much more than I could’ve imagined. Post-partum set in quickly and as a then stay-at-home mom, I was very unsure of myself and how I could be truly happy in this situation. My beautiful and forever smiling baby pulled me out of my slump day by day. Seeing this helpless but optimistic and creative soul gave me something to look forward to everyday. I knew then, when he was 11 months, that I needed to find my passion and create something to pass on to him in my own right. On a personal note, I’m not the average height woman. I’m 6’2 and finding fashionable and affordable clothing for myself was very difficult and I quickly found the same issue for my sprouting toddler. I was inspired to create my own brand of accessible, stylish products and essentials for infants and toddlers. This brand is dear to my heart and with the help and cultivation of my supporters, my vision will transcend and grow into a legacy for our family.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
This journey has been far from smooth as the US economy changed my family lives in the middle of turning my dream brand into a reality. In March 2020, my family took a massive financial blow as my husband was laid off due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Him being the sole financial supporter of our household put us in a very tough spot. I put my vision on hold to get as much temporary work as I could to help our family. My husband came to me and said he felt I shouldn’t give up and should use this time to perfect my vision and he would take our small savings and help me launch. We opened September 15, 2020. We could only afford 4 apparel items and 5 accessories which we are extremely proud of. I have big dreams for my company and am working very hard to make it happen. As God provides new opportunities and supportive business partners along the way, I know we will grow to be more than what I could have imagined.

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?
Houston is the hot spot for all things entertainment. My favorite breakfast stop is definitely The Breakfast Club where the chicken and waffles will have you full for days. Then head over to museum district to catch the current eccentric display on exhibit. City Centre is a great place to shop and unwind Then a must-visit is the famous Turkey Leg Hut where dinner and music will end the night. Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to dedicate my shout out to all my family and friends who have given their time and resources to advancing my brand. I would especially like to thank my sister, Mykel Davis, Owner & Founder of Muscle Up Mommy, who’s served as my mentor and coach in launching my business efficiently and successfully, giving me her time, attention, and advice whenever I need it.

Website: www.topplinekids.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/topplinekids_

Twitter: www.twitter.com/topplinekids

Facebook: www.facebook.com/topplinekids

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