After working as a display coordinator for Anthropologie and then getting on a first-name basis with Amy Poehler and Nick Offerman on NBC’s Making It, Kaviya Ravi decided to use her creativity and love of color to build her own business. Now, she’s designing wearable art and home accessories! Meet the owner of khromo+philia and this month’s FACE of Louisville, Kaviya Ravi.
As the sole force behind khromo+philia, you’re more than just a business owner. How would you describe your vocation?
I would say I’m an artist and maker — a creative in general — and a lover of all things colorful. My work is like a picture of my love for color and working with my hands. I run an online store and do markets for khromo+philia, which I consider a lifestyle brand. I make wearable art for your home and yourself, and hopefully — someday — also for your kids, pets, and everybody!
How did you get into this line of work?
Becoming an artist and a maker began around 2008. I used to be a biochemist; I have a dual degree in biochemistry and biotechnology. I grew up in India, and when I moved to the States, my plan was to get my master’s, but I soon realized that wasn’t the path for me.
I really wanted to go to art school, but in India, art is considered more of a hobby than a career. So, I decided to get my BFA in Interior Architecture. That allowed me to grow and evolve in my career. I started working at Anthropologie, doing displays, merchandising, and things like that.
And then you auditioned for the NBC crafting competition, Making It?
Yes. I quit my job right when the pandemic started, and I auditioned for the show. It was actually perfect timing because I made it onto season three and was able to concentrate solely on Making It. It was a feel-good show — kind of like The Great British Bake Off, but for makers. Amy Poehler and Nick Offerman hosted, and every week, they gave us a task with a creative brief that we needed to fulfill. It could be anything from making a toy for three hours to making over a room, which would be a longer challenge. I made it to week three, and it was a really fun experience.
You founded khromo+philia after being on the show. Would you say the experience inspired you to build a brand and start your own business?
I think it was a mix of things; it was more than inspiration. The fear of not having a steady paycheck and benefits had been preventing me from doing something on my own. I also wasn’t investing in my own growth. But during the show, I got to work with all these other creators, and I saw how much they were investing in themselves, their skills, and the technology they needed to create.
I felt I was lagging behind, so coming off the show was a big wake-up call and an ‘aha’ moment for me. I realized that you can — and should — invest in yourself, and it’s the biggest, most important investment you can make in your life.
Then you jumped headfirst into creating khromo+philia! What have been some of your most sought-after creations?
My jewelry has been the most popular item. My life motto is to keep it simple and silly, and that’s reflected in everything I make, including my jewelry. You’ll see a lot of birds, people, and dogs — anything with faces that have a personality and a story. I try to introduce a few bird styles every season, which people love. I keep it all light, whimsical, and super colorful.
When you’re not busy creating and running your business, what are your favorite places to eat and play around Louisville?
I love anything from Edward Lee, so I love NAMI. And I’m obsessed with Meesh Meesh — it’s my favorite place ever. Blue Dog Bakery is my treat place. If I accomplish something, I’ll go get a pastry. I also love coffee shops. My favorite coffee shop is Safai; I walk my dog to their window and pick up a coffee and a pup cup for him.
To shop, I love Revelry, which features so many local artists — including me! Mahonia is another favorite of mine, as is Woman-Owned Wallet. It’s all women-owned businesses, and they have a funky, pink theme. I also love Velvet Outlaw. The owner is a fellow artist. She blings up found clothes with a funky, cowboy-esque theme. She also has Velvet Outpaws, which is for dogs.
As for play, I’m usually a homebody but will get a cocktail sometimes — and we have so many speakeasies! I love Hell or High Water and Wild Swann, anywhere dark and moody.
What advice do you have for people who are thinking of making a major career switch?
Don’t be afraid! Sometimes, we get so involved in the grind, especially in the corporate world. But they don’t reciprocate your loyalty; to them, you’re just one person among a million. You sacrifice your personal and family time to be there, but it’s not appreciated.
If you invest in yourself and your own business, it will all come back to you. So, if the thought of starting your own business even crosses your mind, start building your nest egg. Just keep building it bit by bit, and soon, you’ll hit a point where something will change, and you’ll know it’s time to go for it. And when you hear that voice, do it — go for it! Otherwise, you’ll live with regret.
In that same vein, what is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
It came from the woman who owned Dandelion Boutique in Louisville. She continues to be a friend and mentor to this day. She said, “Who says you need to do one single thing all your life? Your life is long, and you can change it anytime you want.” It was very eye-opening advice, and I think it opens up the world for evolution and change.
Aside from faith, family, and friends, what are three things you can’t live without?
I cannot live without my pups, the outdoors — specifically Cherokee Park — and travel. I can only sit still for a few months before I get that itch to go somewhere new.
Thank you for chatting with us, Kaviya!
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