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

Hi Kendra, do you disagree with some advice that is more or less universally accepted?
I disagree with YOLO (You Only Live Once). In my opinion, you only die once but you have the opportunity to LIVE every single day. It’s about creating your life and how you choose to live every single day and receiving grace from God to be granted a fresh 24 hour slate in a day to actually live.

What should our readers know about your business?
I am owner / operator of a busy L.A. based Interior Design firm and Event Planning company. I specialize in high-end looks at affordable prices. My design firm offers everything from one room re-designs to full home renovations. My event planning business offers everything from luxury weddings to conferences and workshops. My premiere event space can host up to 250 guests all-inclusive and customized to your special occasion. I am proud to be part of a small yet elite group of minority women in the field of design. I am most proud to have been a pioneer in this industry and have been holding strong now for 26 years. It was not easy trying to make my business module work. I was not an over-night success by any means. It took my business failing and getting up and failing and getting up and failing and getting back up again – each time learning something new and doing things a little different with each new endeavor. The biggest lessons I have learned along the way is to trust my instincts and write out clear plans. A lot can be accomplished with a well thought out and executed plan.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
This is a loaded question because I am very introverted. I am not much of a socialite. My friends would get very tired of me before the week is up. But if I had to entertain a friend then the best place for me to do that would be my own backyard. Steaks and veggies on the grill, drinks at the outdoor bar, a dip in the pool or even relaxing in the spa would be my choices for myself and my friends. BUT if we just had to go out then I would certainly say a wonderful trip to the Getty Museum followed by a nice picnic at the park with a good book. It would be nice to check out a Jazz Festival or Arts Festival if someone was in town for the weekend. Vintage stores, flea markets and thrift stores are also fun and exciting because you never know what hidden treasure is awaiting you. Nothing gets me more excited than looking at beautiful art, vintage furniture and listening to Jazz Music. Second thing next to heaven.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I whole-heartedly and un-waivering would like to dedicate my shoutout to my amazing husband. Christopher Mays is a pillar of strength that stands beside me when he is proud. He stands in front of me when I need protection. And he stands behind me to support me and push me right into my destiny. He is a walking, living breathing reflection of God’s love for me. He is the best of me and I would not be where I am today in this business world without him.

Website: www.amaysndesigns.com
Instagram: AmaysNEvents
Twitter: Mrs. AmaysN
Facebook: AmaysN Designs
Youtube: Chris & Kendra TV

Image Credits
Photo Credit Christopher Mays

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