'Shark Tank': Who is new guest shark Kendra Scott and why does she want to invest in female entrepreneurs?
Jewelry designer Kendra Scott is ready to dip her toes into the 'Shark Tank'. Every season we see some big names drop into 'Shark Tank' as guest sharks and compete with the regular sharks to secure a deal, while also sharing some amazing insights on how to become a successful entrepreneur. This time, it is Kendra Scott, who founded the billion-dollar jewelry empire called 'Kendra Scott'.
Kendra began her entrepreneurial journey from her tiny bedroom in 2002. At that time, Kendra was pregnant with her child and had only $500 in her bank. Her love and passion for creating jewelry pieces for her friends and family pushed her to pursue it professionally. In the initial days of her business, the celebrity designer used to go door-to-door with her baby by her side, to sell the pieces she created.
Soon, her designs became popular and she began opening stores to sell her jewelry designs called 'Color Bar'. The USP of her stores was that the customers could touch and try on the piece and even customize it before purchasing it. Kendra's business grew in no time and today her designs are sold by major retailers across the country.
As the only female guest shark of the current season, Kendra is taking her role very seriously. In a statement released by the designer, she explained her interest in investing in female entrepreneurs. She said, "As a female founder and CEO, I love what Shark Tank has done to give entrepreneurs a leg up in the business world. And as the only female Guest Shark this season, I am honored to play a part in helping small business leaders - especially women - achieve their dream."
The four companies that will be appearing on the upcoming episode of 'Shark Tank' are Go Oats, a Virginia-based company that produces oatmeal snacks. P-Nuff Crunch, a peanut puff snack by a company in New Jersey and an eco-friendly bag to collect dog waste called, Pooch Paper. A San Fransisco-based company called Bootay Bag, will be pitching their women's underwear subscription idea.
In an interview, Kendra spoke about her experience of appearing on 'Shark Tank'. She said, "This year has been a difficult year for us all. They (entrepreneurs) blew me away with their passion and a relentless drive to carry on with their dream, even in the face of great challenge."
'Shark Tank' Season 12 airs every Friday at 8/7c only on ABC.