kelly ann

Kelly Ann | Partner

spool

Service Industry Detour

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As we previously mentioned in partner Amy's post, Kelly Ann bought spool in 2007. In addition to time at her own shop, Kelly Ann works for two other women-owned businesses: at Arizona Trading Company and hosting karaoke at The Brick every 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month. Kelly Ann has an "awesome" four-year-old son named Kenny. She works next door to her best friend Peggy Noland. She likes the collaborative nature of the art community in Kansas City where people enthusiastically help each other.

Kelly Ann is no stranger to the restaurant life. She used to be a server and likens retail to the service industry. "If you're in the position to help someone pick out their lunch, it's kind of like helping someone pick out an outfit." She loves and misses the restaurant world. "You count on each other. You gotta work together to keep the boat afloat."

  Make KC Better » I'm a big fan of bussing and biking. 

 Get people less reliant on their cars. 

amy h.

Amy H. | Partner

spool

Service Industry Detour

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Amy bought into spool (open since 2007 by Kelly Ann Allen) late last year. Amy and Kelly, both mothers, split their time in the store and their buying duties, "combining their powers" to make one really good business. Amy is a vintage junkie, scouring estate sales for that side of the business while Kelly looks after the boutique side. Spool is flanked by independent, strong, women-owned businesses (Peggy Noland, Peregrine Honig), which Amy finds "really inspirational." Y.J's, a local coffeeshop and hangout lends to the conversation and community on their little street. Amy is a vocal proponent of investing in Kansas City for its growth. "You can make your neighborhood anything you want it to be. Get off your butt."

  Make KC Better » Reinvest in the community instead of fleeing 

 to neighborhoods you think are "safer."