In Her Shoes: Jolivia Kim on Building a Brand with Purpose

Can you share with us a little background about yourself and about your brand Jolivia Kim?

Hi, I’m Jimin. Ever since I was a little girl, I knew I wanted to be a fashion designer, so I built my career in fashion. But after nearly a decade, I found myself feeling a bit lost. I wanted to channel my skills and energy into something with more meaning—a mission beyond just creating. That led me to transition into UX/UI design, where I learned to approach design through problem-solving, research, and human-centered thinking. It felt like everything came full circle: my background in manufacturing and creative design, combined with a more strategic, research-driven mindset. At that point, I felt ready to pursue my lifelong dream—to create something of my own and bring my perspective into the world. That’s how Jolivia Kim came to life.

What inspired you to take the leap in 2024 and finally bring Jolivia Kim to life?

It was a mix of things. I grew tired of constantly seeking validation and a “seat at the table” in my career. At the same time, our household was going through a season of growth—challenging ourselves and stepping outside our comfort zones. But the biggest turning point came from my daughter. I was always encouraging her to believe in herself, to go after anything she wanted with hard work and dedication. One day, it hit me—I wasn’t living by those same words. I realized I needed to lead by example. The most honest way to show her that I meant what I said was to take action myself. That decision became the beginning of Jolivia Kim.

You built this brand alongside your daughter—how has motherhood shaped the way you approach entrepreneurship?

Building this brand with my daughter has been incredibly meaningful. Motherhood has given me a kind of superpower—it naturally connects you with other women and mothers who are also building, creating, and navigating similar challenges. Entrepreneurship can be lonely, especially without a strong community. Being a mom has helped me find that support system—people who truly understand and relate on a deeper level. It also grounds me. Motherhood constantly reminds me what truly matters: being present. When I feel overwhelmed or caught up in small things, I step back and focus on the moment I’m in—especially moments with my daughter that I know I won’t get back. That perspective brings me back to gratitude, even in stressful times.

What was your career or life journey like before becoming a founder?

Before becoming a founder, I worked in a very structured, top-down environment. I was often focused on completing tasks rather than understanding the bigger purpose behind them. Early in my career, I didn’t have a clear sense of direction. I was just moving through each day without a strong vision for where I wanted to go. Looking back, though, all of those experiences were necessary. They shaped who I am today and gave me the skills and perspective I now bring into my own business.

Your brand challenges the idea that functional items can’t be beautiful—why was this so important for you to change?

Coming from both fashion and UX/UI, I’ve seen two very different approaches to design. In fast fashion, the focus is often speed, trends, and consumption, with little time to think about real value or purpose. UX/UI design taught me something different—that design can solve real problems, and that’s where its true power lies. For me, it was important to create something that balances both. I believe in the power of beauty—how it can shift your mood and confidence—but I believe it becomes even more meaningful when it also serves a purpose. When something is both beautiful and functional, that’s when design truly resonates.

Jolivia Kim leather sunglasses case and bag charm (image courtesy of Jolivia Kim)

What’s been the most fulfilling part of creating products that inspire women?

The most fulfilling part is knowing that the product can make a woman feel more like herself—more empowered, more at ease. Life is already demanding. We carry so much, both physically and mentally. If my product can bring even a small sense of ease, organization, or calm into someone’s day, that’s incredibly meaningful to me.

When do you feel most confident in your role as a founder?

I feel most confident when I’m talking directly with customers about the product. I know it inside and out—what problem it solves, why it matters, and how it fits into their lives. There’s something very grounding about that clarity. It brings me back to the purpose behind everything I’m building.

What’s something people don’t see about your day-to-day life as a small business owner?

Probably the internal side of it—the doubts, the fears, and the less glamorous moments. It’s natural to share the highlights, the wins, and the exciting milestones. But behind that, there’s a constant mental dialogue that people don’t always see. That’s a very real part of the journey.

How do you push past self-doubt and uncertainty as a founder?

I remind myself that you’ll never know unless you try—and that failure is part of the process. It’s also about learning to let go of thoughts that don’t serve you. Self-doubt and fear are natural, but they can’t be the things that guide your decisions. For me, it’s a practice—almost like building a muscle. It takes time, patience, and intentional effort to shift your mindset, little by little.

Jolivia Kim leather sunglasses case and bag charm makes great bridal gifts

(image courtesy of Jolivia Kim)

What does it truly feel like to be “in your shoes” right now—balancing motherhood, creativity, and business?

It’s a lot. It can feel overwhelming and uncertain—but also exciting and deeply meaningful. I think it comes down to perspective. You can look at the same situation through a negative lens or an optimistic one, and it completely shapes your experience. I don’t believe in perfect balance. I relate more to the idea of harmony—something that Anne Hathaway once spoke about. There are seasons where one part of your life needs more attention than others. Right now, I’m learning how to bring everything—motherhood, creativity, and business—into a kind of harmony, even if it’s not perfect.

What do you think is the most important thing for women to focus on when starting a business from scratch?

Starting a business is really a journey of discovering who you are. The most important thing is to trust yourself—your instincts, your intuition. There will always be outside opinions, and while it’s important to listen and learn, you are the only person who truly knows your vision and intentions. That self-trust becomes your foundation, especially during both the highs and the lows.

You speak about inspiring young girls—what message do you hope your daughter carries with her from watching your journey?

I want her to be unapologetically herself—to celebrate every part of who she is, because that uniqueness is something no one can take away. To trust herself, love herself, and believe in her own voice. To know that she holds the key to her own life—that she is the main character in her story. And to move through life with curiosity, generosity, and courage, embracing each day as a gift.