Today we’d like to introduce you to Linh Toomey.
Hi Linh, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’m Linh and am the owner and founder of KICKIEST which specializes in women’s clothing and styling services. Holding a bachelor’s degree in Finance, my motto is “Style in Budget.” I have traveled to Europe and Asia and appreciate the unique fashions from the various countries I visit.
I knew I wanted to be an entrepreneur since I was in college. My grandparents on my mom’s side owned a painting business and a tailor shop in Vietnam. They were the ones who taught my mom, aunt, and uncle to learn how to sew and make clothes.
My aunt was extremely good at it and decided to quit her job as a teacher to pursue tailoring full time. My mom also opened a clothing store in Parkville, Maryland for a couple of years before she went back to her corporate job. I saw the struggle of owning a business firsthand and saw how much effort my mom put into it. It was not easy.
When I landed on the cover of Baltimore Style Magazine, I felt that the universe was telling me to pursue my passion and that is fashion.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No, it has not been a smooth road. People often forget that building a business is not an overnight success and that it could take years for it to become successful. The hardest part for me is finding time to work on my business. I still have my day job working in Finance and anyone who works in the field can understand how demanding and stressful at times it can be. I also need to find time for my personal life as well. I’m still learning how to navigate work-life balance.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
KICKIEST is an online clothing boutique located in Baltimore, Maryland. We are most known for our colorful and multi-functional face masks and colorful accessories; they were our best sellers during the pandemic. Our brand is unisex and we cater to men and women who are bold and enjoy showing off their feminine side. I also provide virtual styling for anyone who needs a makeover or is too busy to shop for themselves.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
I used to sneak in my mom’s closet when I was younger to try on her clothes when she was at work. I was about 11 years old at that time. She did not allow me to go in there since I would misplace everything. I loved trying on her dresses and shoes, and I would strut around the room pretending I was a model. The role had reversed now since she’s the one who raids my closet and wants to wear my clothes.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.shopkickiest.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/styletome_/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Kickiest/
Image Credits
Marcus
Dilano
