Kris Cormier, founder and designer of KCA design  is incredibly talented and such an inspiration to me. I have known Kris for several years and continue to be amazed her designs, work ethic and creativity. With her unique calligraphy, illustrations and painting services, it is easy to understand why her hobby became a thriving business. I am always getting compliments on the darling designs Kris illustrated on my bag, and thought this would be the perfect opportunity to share more about Kris with you.

Where are you from?

I moved around a lot growing up and lived in various cities in Texas, New York, Florida and Louisiana. Most of my time collectively has been in the Dallas area and I went to SMU. After college I moved to NYC for a bit then headed right back to Dallas for a job at Neiman Marcus.

How would you describe your path to becoming an artist?

My career started and remained in the luxury marketing field for over a decade. I spent several years at Neiman Marcus corporate as well before I ended up moving into interior design. All of the jobs that I had ended up leading to the business I have now, as I draw from each piece in what I am doing now. I did not go to art school, but did take art classes growing up, and always preferred that to sports.

Share a few things that give you inspiration…

I am inspired by everyday life truly. I see things when I am out, reading a book, watching a movie or just going to a new place. I am so fortunate to have amazing close friends who are also creatives and they also add so much inspo to my daily life. I am genuinely super happy each day and that allows me to be inspired and create frequently.

Tell us about your first job out of school?

My first job after I graduated from SMU was at a small boutique marketing agency and I helped support the client service and media buying teams. I really didn’t love it at all, but I knew I had to pay my dues and get years of my experience before I could fine tune what I wanted to do.

How/Why did you decide to start your own business and can you tell us a bit about what you do?

I was working at a Design Studio in the Design District and absolutely loved it. That job truly set me up to start my own thing, as the owners are dear friends and taught me so much about running a business. I owe a lot to them for that. I felt like I really wanted to do something on my own and had dabbled on the side for years in live events and custom orders. I saw that it had legs and decided it was time to make the bold leap. My business now is focused on personalization, events and vintage resale.

Advice for someone who wants to start their own business…

I would tell anyone who wants to start their own business to be ready for anything. My first year was a wild ride, full of surprises, hard and painful lessons and anxiety. Year two was similar. So many of the people in my inner circle are also business owners and everyone says the same thing, it is a constant struggle but one that is so worth it. There are always so many things to be done, never enough time and often too few resources. I would not change it for anything though.

What is your favorite item you have illustrated?

It is so hard for me to pick a favorite piece or design. I have always been very fond of the Space Jacket I did for DIFFA in 2019. I have yet to get the reception that I got from that from another piece and have had so many people request that design.

What do you have the most fun personalizing? 

I love doing events and getting to meet people in person. I think right now one of my favorite things to personalize are perfume bottles. It is a fun change of pace and are so chic.

How can we get in contact with you to create a custom order? Do you do private parties?

I do both retail and private parties; I am always up for coming up with new and creative activations. The best way to find me is via email, my site or IG.

contact me for orders...

646.330.2610
kris@kcadesignco.com
IG: kcadesignco.com

xx. Kris

Much love

Sophie