KENDRA APPELBAUM

It all started for me at 6 years old, when my mom would take me on shopping trips to the glamorous Saks 5th Avenue in Atlanta.  I remember the journey through the store, and loved soaking in the luxury that surrounded me, from the huge floral arrangements, to the over made up ladies (and gentlemen) behind the cosmetic counters, to the immaculately dressed and smiling sales associates.  When we got to my department (the girls department), I was fussed over by this beautiful older woman, Marta.  For years, every time I went into Saks, Marta made me feel important and special.  As a child of divorce before the era of constructive co-parenting, shopping at an early age was emotionally comforting.  I felt grown up and cool because I could pick out my own clothes and soak in the compliments: "wow, this kid has a great taste level...she's got an eye...I'd even let her dress me." It continued as I grew up around my Dad's stores.  I always loved being "the helper" to his customers.  And I knew I had found my calling when my Dad took me to NYC for the first time on a buying trip.  I loved the hunt for the perfect merchandise and the hustle of the industry.  

I went on to study (fashion merchandising) at Simmons College and graduate from the University of Georgia, before heading to NYC and starting my career in fashion.  My first celebrity client was JFK, Jr., while I was working at Barney's New York.  Then I joined Donna Karan and learned from one of the industry's greatest ladies, before heading west and opening my own boutiques in Marin County, CA.  I've since styled for emerging fashion brands, ad campaigns, and individual clients.  It's in my blood, it's what I do.  

Nestled amongst the Cascade Mountains of Central Oregon remains my home, which I share with my daughter Addison, and canine son Beaumont.