We had the good fortune of connecting with Kim West and KT Morgan and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kim and KT, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Geaux Home was created with culture and creativity in mind. While living in New Orleans we loved the fact that everything was celebrated; every day was a party! From the food, parades, sports events…even home-going celebrations, every thing was observed in a unique and beautiful way. It was always our dream to one day create something of our own that embodies and pays homage to the Creole culture.

Moving back to Memphis after Hurricane Katrina was definitely eye-opening for us. Memphis was different. It had a different vibe and flavor from the Memphis we grew up in, and that was so exciting! Memphis music, food, slang–everything, was finally being acknowledged nationally and we embraced that part of our journey. We had no idea at the time that the business we would create would be home decor and essentials, but when the pandemic hit the light bulb went off. It was easy to see where the cultural mix would fit and its been working for us and our customers ever since.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Starting a new business is a challenge in itself. Raising a family and going through personal trials while working full-time and creating content for our customers has been challenging, but definitely rewarding. In an industry monopolized by fashion and beauty we sought to create something that was truly unique, divinely our own, and something that we know our supporters could identify with and relate to. We went back and forth with the ideas of Geaux Home in our mind…if we put this out there would it be accepted; would people actually get it?

Prior to launching, we spent over a year learning, growing, and building relationships with vendors and small businesses to ensure the success of Geaux Home. We wanted to obtain as much knowledge and mentorship as possible to be able to provide our customers with quality personalized products and an overall top-notch experience.

Many times, there has been the misconception that our products are limited to only the Black or Creole market, when in actuality it is where our inspiration is derived from. Our more diverse creations come from our personal experience and trends within our culture that brings a sense of nostalgia and pride. We want this to be captured in everything that is released, and appreciative of all who accept it.

One important lesson we’ve learned is never stop creating and never stop grinding. It’s a constant process to maintain relevancy in an ever-changing market and we are committed to the long haul.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
You definitely cannot come to Memphis and not go to a Grizz game at the FedEx Forum! We think everyone should see Ja in person at least one time in their life! For a week long trip to the M-Town, you definitely have to go to Brother Juniper’s for breakfast and get a Juniper Latte. Next check out Ms. B’s Sub Shop for one of the best local cold-cut sandwiches! Check out Ibis for happy hour drinks and grab a rib tip plate from The Bar-B-Q Shop. There are so many jewels in the city of Memphis. No trip would be complete without heading down to Beale Street to bar hop, stopping by The Civil Rights and Staks Museums to get an understanding of Memphis history, and of course you have to stop by Graceland to see “The King”.

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?
Our first shoutout would definitely be to NOLA, our second home. The city of New Orleans is where all of our creativity was ignited, and Geaux Home would not be possible without its influence. We would like to give a shoutout to two businesses that have been instrumental in Geaux Home’s success thus far: The GlamHer Brand and LTG Customs. These two businesses have helped mold, mentor, and bring all of our ideas to life.

Website: www.geauxhome.shop

Instagram: @geauxhomeessentials

Facebook: Geaux Home Essentials

Image Credits
Billi Watson, GlamHer Brand

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutTennessee is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.