Meet Lori Jillson | Owner & Creative Director, Kendall Grace Collective

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

Hi Lori, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My inspiration for starting Kendall Grace came from my love of creating meaningful moments for the people I love most. As a wife and mom, I loved planning special celebrations for my family and found so much joy in seeing those moments bring people together. What started as a creative outlet at home grew into a passion for helping others celebrate life’s special occasions. I created Kendall Grace Collective to turn beautiful gatherings into lasting memories with a heart and desire to help people slow down and connect so they can truly enjoy the moments that matter most.

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.
My professional journey began in corporate banking, where I spent nearly 20 years building a career and developing skills that still serve me today. When my children were young, I made the personal decision to step away from the corporate life and focus on being a stay-at-home mom during those formative years. It was a season I’m incredibly grateful for. As my children grew older, I found myself with more time and space to explore what was next. I knew I wanted to build something meaningful, something that reflected who I am and allowed me to use the gifts God has given me.

One thing I’m most proud of is having the courage to pivot and start something new later in life. It’s not always easy. Building a business requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to learn through mistakes. But every challenge has taught me the value of staying true to your purpose and continuing to move forward, even when the path isn’t perfectly clear.

If there’s one thing I hope people take away from my story, it’s that it’s never too late to pursue something that brings you joy. Our seasons may change, but there is purpose in each one. When we use our unique gifts in a way that serves others, the impact often reaches far beyond what we ever imagined.

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?
I would take them around North County San Diego to show them why it’s so special…from the beautiful beaches, great food to the relaxed coastal lifestyle north county has to offer. Our mornings would start with a walk along the coast in Carlsbad, then we’d go grab a coffee (or in my case a hot tea) and breakfast at a local cafe. We’d spend time exploring and shopping the villages of Carlsbad, Encinitas, and Del Mar and soaking in the sun and ocean views. For lunch, we’d enjoy some fresh fish tacos by the beach and then later that evening catch the sunset and some live music from the Camp Store in Carlsbad.

I would think about going to the Flower Fields (when in season), Moonlight Beach in Encinitas, and definitely a day exploring Cedros Design District in Solana Beach. I’d mix in a few rooftop dinners, live music, and plenty of time with friends and just enjoying the casual and beautiful atmosphere that north county is all about.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My faith has been the foundation of every season of my life, and I’m deeply grateful to God for blessing me with a creative spirit and the opportunity to use my gifts to serve others. I’m also incredibly grateful for my family. As a wife and mom, some of my greatest joy came from creating special celebrations for my children as they were growing up and watching how those experiences brought us together. Those memories inspired what would eventually become Kendall Grace. The love, encouragement, and support of my family and many friends, gave me the confidence to turn a personal passion into a business that I love and that helps others create special memories of their own.

Website: https://www.kendallgracecollective.com

Instagram: @kendallgracecollective

Facebook: Kendall Grace Collective

Image Credits
robinlitrenta_photography