Today we’d like to introduce you to Kaitlyn Shopping
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
What started as a way to advertise my sticker side-hustle has grown into a career I’m truly passionate about. I’ve always been drawn to the idea of having an unconventional career. In 2017, while transitioning jobs, I became an independent consultant for a nutrition company. This experience first sparked my passion for exploring paths beyond the traditional corporate nine-to-five. Being an independent consultant gave me a sense of freedom and flexibility, which I truly valued. Although it didn’t work out in the long run, it was an important stepping stone on the journey that ultimately led me to my dream job.
In 2019, I experienced a frightening medical event that shifted the direction of my life. I suffered an artery spasm, which mimics the symptoms of a heart attack but isn’t one. The culprit? High stress from my corporate job in car insurance and excessive caffeine consumption. Realizing this career wasn’t sustainable for me, I decided to explore other options. Eventually, I found a role I was passionate about—teaching—but the medical scare had a profound impact on my mental health in ways I had never experienced before. For the next couple of years, I wasn’t able to work full-time. Thankfully, I had the unwavering support of my husband (then boyfriend), who allowed me the space and time to focus on my recovery. Those years were some of the hardest of my life. There were days I didn’t think I could make it, but through it all, I felt God’s presence guiding me. Even in the darkest moments, His love and strength carried me through. I’m incredibly grateful for His guidance and for how He led me to where I am today.
In the summer of 2020, I downloaded TikTok and began creating content soon after. Initially, my videos were random with no clear direction, then they shifted to promoting my sticker business. However, I quickly realized how much I loved watching other creators share shopping finds and seasonal home decor. Growing up, my family (especially my aunt’s) had a knack for decorating, and shopping has always been a lifelong love of mine (let’s be honest, what girl doesn’t love shopping?). Inspired by these passions, I decided to pivot my content toward seasonal home shopping with a touch of lifestyle.
Despite my enthusiasm, my original account didn’t gain much traction, likely because it was still tied to my sticker business. In July 2023, I decided to start fresh with a new account: KaitlynShopping. Around the same time, my aunt told me she could see me becoming an influencer. Her encouragement gave me the confidence to go all in and pursue content creation wholeheartedly. It was a turning point that helped me embrace this path with renewed determination. I started posting consistently, sometimes three to four times a day, determined to build the career I wanted. Growth was slow at first, and there were moments I nearly gave up. But I didn’t. Everything changed in June of this year when I posted about fall decor hitting the shelves at Hobby Lobby. That video marked a breakthrough, and my account grew from about 430 followers to over 1,000 by July. Since then, it has continued to grow steadily. That same month, content creation officially became my career, and I haven’t looked back.
Although the journey to get here hasn’t been easy, I know God was with me every step of the way. I’m incredibly grateful for His guidance and for how far I’ve come. Content creation is not just a job—it’s something I genuinely love. I’m excited to keep growing, connecting with others, and seeing where this path takes me. Mental health is still something I struggle with every day, but I hope my story inspires someone to keep going and moving forward. Better days are ahead. As it says in Jeremiah 29:11, “‘For I know the plans I have for you’, declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” I hold onto that promise, knowing that even in the toughest moments, God is guiding me toward a brighter future.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road was definitely not smooth like I said in my story above, but I wouldn’t change it because it led me to where I am today.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I create content focused on seasonal home décor, shopping, and cozy lifestyle, sharing shopping hauls, décor tips, and seasonal finds. I’m known for my “decorate with me” videos, holiday countdowns, cozy nights in, and vlogs where I take viewers along to stores like Target, HomeGoods, TJ Maxx, Marshalls, Hobby Lobby, and Anthropologie to showcase their latest arrivals. What sets me apart is my ability to blend timeless décor pieces with seasonal trends to create spaces that feel both inviting and stylish. I strive to make my content relatable and warm, so viewers feel like they’re shopping and decorating alongside a friend. I’m proud of how far I’ve come on this journey, especially considering how long it’s taken me to get here, and I’m excited about the path ahead. I’ve had the privilege of working with brands like HomeGoods, Frankie Print Co., and Vivaia, and I’m looking forward to the continued growth and opportunities to inspire others in creating their own cozy, happy homes.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
My most important resource is the Bible. It’s been a guiding source of strength and wisdom in both my personal and professional life. The verses that inspire and motivate me to keep going, especially during challenging times, remind me of the importance of perseverance, faith, and staying grounded in my purpose. It’s my foundation for balancing work and life, and it truly helps me do my best in all areas.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/kaitlynshopping
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaitlyn.shopping
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@kaitlynshopping
