Meet Kendall Thomas | Creative Retail Manager

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

Hi Kendall, we’d love for you to start things off by telling us something about your industry that we and others not in the industry might be unaware of?
I think people are generally unaware of how operationally intensive it is. Yes, working in retail is creative thinking but also requires logistics when it comes to ordering from different vendors, strategic thinking in knowing your market or audience and financial awareness of your margins and product turnover

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
In my career thus far, I’m most proud of how I’ve found my creative voice. Growing up, I always kept my creative opinions to myself for fear of seeming too critical or causing disruption but I am evolving out of that and continuing to try and voice my opinion in a constructive and helpful way. I do think, looking back on my 6 years of being in the workforce, that as a creative I fight more of a personal battle than a professional one. Trusting my instincts, taste, and tactics are something I had to and continue to work through. Luckily with mentors I’ve had, like Todd Fiscus and Christine Visneau, I’ve learned so much about creativity and execution and truly don’t think I’ll ever stop learning how to perfect both.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting Dallas, I’d take them to Royal Blue Grocery in Highland Park Village for breakfast tacos and a walk around the neighborhood. I love going on walks and the neighborhood there is so beautiful, especially in the morning! We could walk or exercise on the Katy Trail and grab Namo sushi for lunch. I love places like Wild Detectives and Davis Street Espresso to read and do work during the day. If it’s nice out, any patio is my favorite spot! In the evening, Bowen House is my favorite; their burger is incredible and the back room there is the best. Since working for Makeready and understanding the world of hospitality, I’ve learned to appreciate incredible restaurant and hotel staff, as well as ambiance and concept of a space. I don’t go anywhere just for the food or drinks. I go somewhere because of the people who work there and the atmosphere; good food + drinks are just the cherry on top!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I think all creatives owe their story and success to those who mentor and look out for them, so I would shoutout to Christine Visneau, who continues to mentor me at Makeready both creatively and personally. To have someone believe in you and to trust your taste level and opinions is everything, so I am extremely grateful for her, along with of course, my incredible husband!

Instagram: @kendalljthomas

Image Credits
Steven Visneau Photography