Today we’d like to introduce you to Kris Owens
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?
Well I’m Kris 😅 A 35 yr old proudly queer latina woman. I have two boys (16 & 9 yrs old) and a partner of 16 years. I started my company, Feisty Design Co. over 4 years ago after a traumatic experience. I took to my iPad and started drawing designs that felt authentic to me, put them on various items and a lot of people loved my products. After growing a beautiful and amazing customer base that truly feels like family at this point, I kept getting asked “When are you opening up a physical location?” After sharing with my community that it was always a dream of mine to open a physical shop, they gave me the courage to take the leap. However, I knew I didn’t want a shop that just had my products. I’ve met SO many talented LGBTQIA+ creators in Houston and wanted to bring them along for the ride. I’m a firm believer that there is plenty of room for everyone at the table and when we work together there is nothing we can’t accomplish. So then The Feisty Collective, a one-of-a-kind shop located in the heart of The Heights was born! We opened on September 13th, 2024. At The Feisty Collective, we’re all about fun, playfulness, and inclusivity, while offering a space that feels friendly and exclusive—just for you! 💖 As a proud queer, Latina, and woman-owned small business, our mission is to celebrate and uplift LGBTQIA+ artists, makers, and community members through creativity and connection. The Feisty Collective is more than just a place to find unique gifts and treats for yourself or your friends; it’s a hub for creativity, connection, and celebration. 🎉 We host fun workshops, events, and meet-ups (Trivia Night, Drag Story Hour, Crochet Meetups, etc.) to build community and support our LGBTQIA+ family.
One of my favorite things about the shop, after every event we host, I get messages from people sharing their appreciation for our shop, how they needed to be surrounded by like minded people, how safe and joyful they feel coming to shop, etc. It truly warms my heart. I also love that our shop is not only a space for adults but that LGBTQIA+ youth have a place to see themselves represented, meet one another, and enjoy events with their families in a safe environment. Our Halloween drag show was so special. Casper Cain and Hugh Dandy had the kids participate and join them while performing. Seeing the joy, wonder and fun on their faces always brings tears to my eyes. It was also special because I’m also a drag performer but my kiddos have never seen me perform as “LoteRina” so to be able to have that moment was super special.
So what is our goal with The Feisty Collective? To be a sanctuary of self-expression, joy, and support for queer individuals and allies alike. In a world that’s often challenging for LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs, we stand as a beacon of resilience and pride. We’d love the chance to share our story and amplify the voices of the talented creators we showcase, as well as how our space is creating an inclusive and celebratory experience for Houston’s queer community.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It hasn’t been an easy road from gathering funding, to plumbing issues, etc but we’ve managed to persevere!
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
We’re known for being more than just a shop—we’re a vibrant community hub. We host workshops, fun events like drag shows, meet-ups, and creative classes that bring people together. Our mission is to support and uplift the LGBTQIA+ community while offering a space where everyone can feel welcomed and celebrated.
What we’re most proud of? Building a space that radiates inclusivity, positivity, and feisty fun. Whether you’re shopping, learning a new skill, or simply hanging out, we aim to create a space that feels like home.
What sets us apart is our fierce dedication to our values: supporting local LGBTQIA+ talent, being unapologetically playful and bold, and fostering connections within the community. At The Feisty Collective, we’re all about making people feel seen, supported, and celebrated. ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thefeistycollective.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/feistycollective/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565205777088
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@feistycollective
Image Credits
Lindsey Addams
