Recently I had the opportunity to interview Kay Hughes. She’s an educator, wife, mama to Kobe, and a businesswoman. She’s on a mission to share her motherhood journey with a sprinkle of faith and educational tips along the way.
Can you tell us a bit about your professional background?
I have a bachelor’s degree in History and a master’s degree in Elementary Education. From 2013-2020 I worked in public education from a substitute teacher, to an interventionist, 4th grade teacher, to a first grade teacher. Throughout those years, I‘ve also had the opportunity to serve in leadership within nonprofits organizations and summer programs for children.
I hold professional licenses in the area of insurance and real estate. I’m currently a (work from home mom) in my business (Everyday With K. Hughes LLC). I am a Digital Content Producer. I work with local and national brands to create content that they can use across digital platforms (social media, their websites, digital ads, newsletter marketing, etc.) I am a member of the local Junior League Chapter here in Columbia and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.
What motivates you most when it comes to connecting with other moms?
What motivates me to connect with other moms is knowing that this is a part of my purpose. Motherhood is such a unique journey. I feel as a mom, we constantly are evolving to meet the needs of our growing children. It’s so helpful to have another mom in your corner or sharing advice. When we connect as moms, we are able to share a piece of our journey that can be a blessing to each other.
How has life prepared you for what you do now?
I think the ultimate test of preparation is just to walk in it. I am the result of a village pouring into me, and an overcomer of life’s obstacles. Where I am now in life is me constantly relying on my faith and pulling back for those life lessons that have shaped me along the way as my guide.
Is it hard to share the difficult days along with the wins?
Yes and no. Sometimes, I try to give myself time to go through the difficult experience before I share. That way I can truly share results that help me overcome that situation to help another woman. But I’ve also found that the most difficult days when shared, give the biggest reward. Other women are able to relate and encourage me in that moment. Showing difficult days help others to learn and see how you handle and navigate life.
How do you remain calm and positive when trying to run a business and manage a household?
Remembering my why and that this is a unique assignment and calling. It’s not always easy but going back to my why gives me renewed strength to keep going.
What advice would you give to other moms who may be in a hard season right now?
Always remember you are already equipped for this assignment. Give yourself grace, and all hard seasons must come to an end. You will not be in that particular season forever.
Can you share a story about the funniest mistake you made once you became a mom? Can you tell us what lesson you learned from that?
There are so many! LOL! I would say the funniest one so far is when my son falls. It’s like my whole world would shatter. My husband would have to calm me down significantly. But then he always reminded me the biggest lesson in this is “ In life, we can’t always hold him up, we have to trust, what we instill in him will sustain him.” As a mom, it’s my job to prepare my children for life’s biggest challenges by giving them tools and resources to navigate through life.
Is there a particular book, podcast, or film that made a significant impact on you? Can you share a story or explain why it resonated with you so much?
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The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren is a book that I can always refer back to. It’s a great resource for uncovering your why and purpose.
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Becoming by Michelle Obama is a book that helped me with self-discovery as a woman and walking into my own.
Can you please give us your favorite life lesson quote? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?
My favorite quote that has carried me through life is, “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” My uncle said this quote to me when I finished high school. It has been a guide for me throughout the years. I truly believe if we plan, God will guide and order our steps from there
What are the common mistakes you have seen people make when they start a lifestyle brand? What can be done to avoid those errors?
I would say more of the mistakes I’ve learned, or advice I have is daily remembering your “why.” This will keep you going when it gets tough. Remember, everyone is not your target audience, and that’s okay. The people who are assigned to you and resonate well with your brand will come. Resonate with your pain points, that’s what may help your community the most.
You can connect with Kay on Instagram @everydaywithkhughes and on her blog.
Moms to See in the 803 is a series highlighting local moms who are making a difference in our community or in business. Want to tell us about an inspiring mom who is doing something great? Send us an email!
