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

Hi Kiara, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I was eager to make my own money, that could pay my bills. I was also scared to fail, i didnt have a job so i was relaying on my business to be successful enough to pay my bills. I didn’t really have much money to start up, so I couldn’t afford to take a loss. I had to think of a Plan A, B & C.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I have started multiple businesses in the past seven years, but the Business im most proud of and that has been consistent going on six years now is My Marketing event “Keys 2 the City”. This is an event i host annually (about every 3 mos) that helps small businesses network , increase sales and gain exposure. I’ve helped over 2,000 small businesses in the city of Detroit market and grow sales. This was probably one of the hardest events to perfect thus far, its been a learning experience dealing with different venues, numerous of vendors and customers. Im very passionate about my marketing event that even if im not making money im. Still eager to host them. Being passionate has help me overcome all of my obstacles honestly. Four years ago i had to go to jail for 3 months for renting tables and chairs for my event and the vendor never came back to get inventory, that was the most challenging time in my life let alone in business. Despite being incarcerated Im still eager and passionate about helping small businesses grow and thrive.

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?
So one my new fav spots is pizza cat , which is a pizza bar downtown Detroit. It has a great vibe, excellent food n good environment. A new bad called empire downtown Detroit has been my favorite because of its speciality cocktail drinks. The New Van gogh Musuem is on my to do list but is definitely a vibe. I usually hang out in Duo or north bar , they play urban music, good food and Duo usually has a live band that makes the experience even better.

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 want to give a huge shout out to my family n closes friends! My Niece Deanna plays a major role in keeping me focused, determined and persistent in my business. She literally believes in every idea thats comes to mind which helps me execute the idea. She literally gives me the confidence and faith I need to continue to strive in business. Im so grateful for her.

Instagram: @Bigkey313 @keys2dacity

Twitter: BigKey313

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