about us
At Shop Kirsten, we are passionate about creating apparel that spreads positivity and makes a difference. We strongly believe in uplifting others to recognize their potential, as we are all capable of amazing things.
Our mission is to spread kindness to all kinds, one sweatshirt at a time.
you are capable
of amazing things!
MEET THE OWNER,
kirsten
HOW IT ALL STARTED
After earning my B.S. in Human Development and Family Studies in 2019, I began my social work career at a non-profit for individuals with vision loss, driven by my passion for community service. Simultaneously, I was still running the clothing resale business I started out of my college dorm in 2018, which evolved into a dream of creating my own brand. I aspired to merge my love for spreading mental health awareness, kindness, and positivity with comfy apparel. After teaching myself screen printing and embroidery, I launched my 'You Are Capable' sweatshirt in early 2021. I had already built quite the following on social media sharing my small business journey, but seeing people support my own brand felt even more special.
A few months later, I did my first ever pop-up at Kendra Scott in Hyde Park. This was a pivotal time in Shop Kirsten history, because people actually showed up. They loved my creations, they loved the messaging, they loved MY brand. I gained the confidence I needed to keep going.
you are capable of amazing things!
Fast forward to January 2022, I made the difficult decision to leave my 9-5 and pursue Shop Kirsten full time. Although my heart was still with my career, I knew I had to take a chance on my business and invest all of my time and energy into it. I am SO glad that I did.
The past couple years of self employment have been a whirlwind. I have met amazing people, built wonderful community connections, participated in many pop-ups, prioritized philanthropy, and explored many different avenues of business. I feel extremely grateful to do what I do, but my desire to do more grows every day. My vision for Shop Kirsten is to become completely philanthropic, where we can give back with every purchase and partner with organizations worldwide. I am determined to and confident that one day, I will achieve this.
To anyone who has supported me, you are so so appreciated. Whether it's a follow on social media or showing up to a pop-up or purchasing a sweatshirt, all of it means the world to me.
I am so blessed with everything Shop Kirsten has become, and motivated with what it still has to do! Thank you for following along.
Always remember to work hard, be kind, and love one another.
SOME OF MY FAVORITE THINGS
01/
all things tampa bay
bayshore walks, beach trips + local businesses
02/
staying active
yoga, running, soccer + workout classes
03/
coffee shops + good eats
trying new places + supporting my favs!
04/
traveling
exploring the world + experiencing all cultures
BEHIND THE PASSION
Within every human being, there is a powerful story on how they got to where they are today. Our experiences— both the ebbs and flows—craft us into who we are and why we do what we do. As someone with an empathetic heart derived from personal life endurances, I am passionate about helping others. In hopes of spreading mental health awareness, I openly share my journey with Generalized Anxiety Disorder. Since I was a little girl, I vowed to one day assist others who are fighting mental health challenges just like me. I hope to encourage and empower, as I am a strong believer that we are capable of so much more than we think (even the things that scare us!). You are not alone in the things you battle, but you are absolutely not hindered or defined by them. You are stronger, kinder, wiser, and it's why you are YOU— keep going.
with love, kirsten
shop kirsten
gives back!
We are passionate about doing good no matter how big or small it may be. Over the years, we have partnered with non-profit organizations, schools serving at-risk youth, and families in need. Our mission is to spread positivity and kindness to all kinds—and we are always looking for more ways to do so. Click the link below to nominate a new way we can show our community support. Together, we can do amazing things!
