Name: Keewa Nurullah

Name of company: Kido

IG handle: @kidochicago

How and why did you start your business?

I started my business after having my son and becoming frustrated at the bland clothing options for little boys of color. I came up with a few ideas for onesies, and I started out just printing one and keeping inventory in my living room. As we started to vend at local markets and festivals, we noticed that families on the Southside were looking for opportunities to meet up. We then started hosting story times and other events for families to hang out and meet other like-minded people.

When did you start your business? How has the pandemic affected it?

Online in 2016, storefront in 2018. The pandemic has decreased our foot traffic during moments of higher infection rates. We also haven’t been hosting some of our more popular events for kids and families.

How might your business change when the pandemic is over (if at all)?

We will be able to host events again! I would probably organize a huge kids festival, I’d be so excited.

What would someone be surprised to learn about your business?

I have yet to attend a trade show and have never met most of my vendors. Hope to change that this year!

What is one piece of advice for new business owners that you wish someone told you beforehand?

Invest in a website and e-commerce platform that will work efficiently from $1 in revenue to $100k.

When you have time to yourself, what do you like to do that isn’t business related?

Since opening the storefront, and especially since Covid, it’s become very simple. I spend so much time at home or at the shop, so I crave quality time with my extended family and friends. I never get enough.