September Vlog 💌 What's really been going on with my business, new shoes + DIY projects!

[@eganyi743]

That's super tough about STAATS. Seems like a very difficult situation over all, but my kind of harsh decisive advice is simply walking away from the business when the time seems right. It will fold without you and your attention to detail towards the business, and the brand awareness you've grown through STAATS will 100% carry over to a new business you start since people support STAATS because of your values and vision for clothing/fashion! Keeping you tied down to staats definitely seems like a fulfillment of your partner's back up plan, which clearly only has his interests in mind/seems to be devised to cover his losses in case something happened to your relationship (which IS unfortunately a smart business move). There seems to be no care for your anxiety/headache/conflicting feelings and they will only grow with the success of staats. Super sorry to hear about all this, wishing you nothing but the best :)

[@VSandTaylorSwiftLove]

I had a feeling this was the situation with STAATS for a long time, so sorry you have been dealing with this! I’d say even though it’s tough to cut your losses and start anew. YOU are the “secret sauce” that makes STAATS magical and successful. We will all be behind your next venture if you decide to go that route! You’ve handled it all with grace which is super admirable. But don’t let him take advantage of everything you’ve built by yourself, he doesn’t deserve to financially mooch off your success. The vibes are just off with this man lol. Sick of men in business taking advantage of women’s success.

[@rosakle11]

Start your own thing, I would 100% support!

[@EmilyDianesLife]

Hey Kailee! As an entrepreneur myself, I am so sorry that you're dealing with these issues with your ex/ex-business partner! Knowing that it's been strictly you focusing and working your butt off on STAATS over the last 4 years, but only receiving 50% makes my heart so sad, but I admire you for trying to look past it and keep moving forward! I would 1000% support you in any way if you decided to quit and start a new business because you're so deserving of the success and 100% profits❤

[@EshleyAspinosa]

Kailee spilling the tea on geared towards gear 🍵

[@abbygraves2573]

He’s always been a fkn douche

[@apversum]

👀👀👀 I'm so here for it

[@Sam-qd7nz]

Mannn I know your intention isn’t to bash him or for people to bash him, but damn, he snaked you hard and knew what he was doing when he quietly quit. You are a talented individual! Love women in business and I wish you the best

[@mia-yi3th]

50% is fucking crazy. everyone is right - u should start your own thing. it might seem daunting, but im sure it will be way easier than the first time around since u have more knowledge, funds, resources, etc. available to you. plus: no backstabbers to worry about!

[@MsGuess12345]

Having a business partner especially with an ex is super difficult. I’m sorry you are going through this. I’ve been a follower of yours since you were living back home with your family and Ive seen how far you have come. This is something that you will easily be able to get over and find a solution to. It just takes time and patience. And I promise you you will come out only stronger and you will come out with something even better than what you have right now ❤️

[@Nicole-wp6vx]

Omfg start a new one, I would love to support since I love a good elevated basic.

[@shannon_cf]

You're spoiling us with a 30 min vlog 😩Absolutely love it! You had me at the squishy cushioned heels. I can tell you genuinely care which brands you choose to work with and share, I always end up learning something new from you!! And thank you for being so open about Staats Ballett, I'm so sorry to hear you're going through that - it sounds like such a tough situation. As a long time follower, I'm so proud to see how far you've come with your life and your career. I hope everything works out for you as soon as possible. I'd love for you to start your own business one day, you have an incredible eye for style whether it's fashion or interior design ♥♥♥

[@abbygraves2573]

If I’m over here fuming on your behalf, I can’t imagine your lived reality for the past few years. I’m so sorry. Like you said, I can’t believe someone would treat someone they used to care about at one point in this way. And that he’s perfectly comfortable profiting off your hard work- like what kind of person does that? I’m so sorry- Whatever decision you make will be the right one for you. ❤ but I agree- do not give that man ANY of your earned money.

[@TarMarz]

loved the vlog and the vulnerable insights - its healing to be able to openly talk about things when the time comes I always find

[@vaalbikers]

One of the most important things for me is the fact that you know who you are and the values that you have. To me, having integrity is the most important thing in life. Being honest and a good person makes me feel at peace. So honestly, it is so sad what’s happening with the brand, I saw you guys biult it from the ground up. But your integrity is worth much more than keeping this thing alive. Your principles will follow whatever it is you’ll create next, and without a doubt I’ll be there supporting you. Hoping for it to get better soon K xx

[@katherinemonday1281]

You are what makes the brand valuable. The success is in your creative vision and hard work. Excited to see and support whatever you do next!

[@kevinpeterwilson5607]

Respectfully, screw Avery and start your own thing!

[@AJ-mp5hd]

Ugh, I am so sorry about the business situation. If you have doubts and want to stop you definitely should...if anything the business will only continue to grow even more! 6 years is a lot but also still "young" in the grand scheme of things. You've built it into something amazing in the last 4 years and I am sure whatever you do next will be just as amazing. We will 100% always support and existing staatsballet customers will too because it's been you! you are the magic!

[@AmandaDM23]

I've been absolutely loving this content the last few months! I've watched you since you were in high school (first video was the jeep car tour lol) and I feel like we've grown up together :') I'm also 26 now and can relate a lot to where you are in life. The comment you made about building community being so important to you really struck something in me and may have solved my most recent quarter life crisis lol. I'm so sorry about the shitty business situation, that is not fair to you and the work you've put in. I hope you know that when you decide to step away, the wonderful community you've built will be here to support your next venture

[@flowwwwiththego]

Thank you so much for sharing about your business, ideas and your process!! This is gold!! Thank you!!

[@Lisa-qt4hh]

Such a nice vlog Kailee! You're such a comfort watch and seem so genuine. I watched you when you were still in highschool and a bit after that but just recently have begun watching your videos again and you haven't changed a bit

[@Pandaluver67899]

Your hair looks so good with your eye color!

[@kaileemckenzie]

Thank you :)

[@eganyi743]

also shoutout to you for introducing me to Birta who makes a short cameo here!

[@ItsTchadTV]

Love your vlogs! Such a great relaxing vibe and inspirational because of your career savviness! In terms of your current business struggle, could you incorporate a new business under a new name (new logo, tags etc.) and keep all the same products? I'm not well versed in how trademarking works but I imagine phasing out current products over time will not cause your ex to go through the hassle of suing you? Sorry if this is too invasive of a comment, I've just seen how much work you've put into STAATS and you totally deserve 100% of the revenue it brings in. You building STAATS was a main inspiration for me starting my own clothing business ❤

[@natalie_dominguez]

the direction you’re wanting to go towards sounds like what Estée Lalonde is doing with Mirror Water! would love to see something like from you ❤

[@wholemilkshake]

Regarding Staats, it seems like you signed into a less than ideal contract when you were young. It happens! I always felt like you were the heart and soul behind the brand; I'll happily support whatever you create. As others have mentioned, you staying at Staats OR buying him out is just playing into his back up plan; it's a tough personal decision, but at the end of the day, I know that you could move on to a new project and thrive. I think it would be even more successful without him in the picture:)

[@phoebebuffay1566]

I love your approach to business. The establishment thing is so true. Whatever you do, I am going to support!

[@Mockingfray]

I’m curious to hear about your goals! And I’m sorry that you’re going through this w STAATS. That isn’t fair to you at all. I trust you’ll make whatever decision is best for you and your future. And hey! I know two people who went on that surf retreat in Portugal. They seemed to love it and are still connected with the women they met there

[@mia-yi3th]

btw kailee, what are some of the best neighborhoods in brooklyn in ur opinion to stay in for a 3 day weekend in nyc? looking for cute and relatively safe vibes. tyia!

[@kaileemckenzie]

Oooh! I think there are a lot of options. Williamsburg/Greenpoint (younger, more Manhattan vibe) Bushwick (party, warehouse eclectic vibe) or for more family and cute I'd say Clinton Hill, Fort Greene, Prospect Heights, Park Slope or Windsor Terrace. The last ones are more residential but close to Prospect Park, Brooklyn Botanic Garden and good food. All have easy access to Manhattan! Dumbo and Brooklyn Heights are a little touristy but also pretty.

[@mia-yi3th]

@@kaileemckenzie ok i love how knowledgable u are about nyc. i could have sworn you uploaded an nyc "best of"/"favs" video years ago...u should totally make an updated version. :) thanks again for the recs!

[@cornbo9585]

Whatever you do we support you🖤

[@claireowo]

after that h&m deal i knew he was only about the bag.

[@thisisanasmrchannel7630]

Where is your adorable mug from?? Also sorry to hear about your business situation!! That is beyond frustrating ☹️

[@kaileemckenzie]

An online shop called Afternoon Light! If you use the code "kailee!" you'll get 15% off :)

[@thisisanasmrchannel7630]

Thank u 🫶 !!

[@rhude-e9k]

I work in speciality coffee and I have done for a few years now. Would love to help consult if that's something you ever consider

[@Keva_]

I think your dog needs a friend too. My sibling's dog (labradoodle) has the same look in his eyes. I had a dream of him sitting with another dog and he looked so at ease. Maybe that is the case but he's so shy when he's around other dogs lol.

[@soundtrackbella]

Tip for your hair: have you tried soaking it with a purple hair treatment designed to remove grassiness for blonde hair? It has taken the copper out of my natural red in the past and might work for you too! Also, sending support in regards to the challenges you’ve faced with Staatsballet. I hope you find the next move that brings you the most peace💕

[@shalenah]

your videos are always so lovely

[@juiceworld6911]

LET HIM KEEP THE BUSINESS AND WATCH IT DWINDLE! Start a new thing. We've got you xx

[@hhaendlerr]

a quit would be the best solution probably.. but talk with your friends and family about it (im sure you did already)! and please make menswear/unisex clothes too later on haha

[@Rachel-kx1ns]

I'm not sure what legal leg you have to stand on but maybe trying to reach a settlement with lawyers could find a middle ground of buying out Avery for a lower amount than what he is asking considering you've been doing all the work for years and grown the profit margins without him? from the sounds of his behaviour he could get pretty ruthless though.. hoping for your sake you can reach an outcome where you're happy even if that means stepping away from it yourself, you know all of us would be behind you with any future business you decide to start

[@katiesteiniger3026]

You should get a lawyer involved regarding the business ...love the vlogs

[@virtudiaries6094]

Good advice re: running your own brand within your own comfort/interest zone. Best of luck in your next business venture...without the ex-tra baggage.

[@brookealexandra2745]

The fact that he hasn't worked on it for four years... people are so stingy, especially when they don't put in the work. Gross. I wonder if you could take him to court. But starting something new would be great!

[@Jan-g3t]

Yes, I think you should get another Vizsla, I have two and they are awesome! They are full of energy and I do believe they need a friend…

[@wilfridorodriguez-delgadoj8046]

I love your hair. I'm trying to go for a strawberry blonde, but I'm inspired by your hue !!

[@kaileemckenzie]

Thank you

[@loulunapersonal]

I think you create a new brand and start fresh and it will be even bigger and better, it's sad that you will most likely have to do that but it will be worth it in the long run x

[@hailiannea2161]

you have our support!

[@ciagretteskills]

girl, make a new business. it won't fail bc yours obv capable. He's being a scrub.

[@claren8300]

Argh. That is terrible. For someone who is supposedly all about “ethical treatment” - he is pretty unethical.

[@hollie531]

Ugh this

[@nathaliescherrer6351]

Yup

[@ftknmlo]

Also avery comes from soo much money....

[@sophiedavis29]

Whenever you are ready to move into your own brand, we will all support you! You are the inspiration and muse of the brand. I love the clothes bc you design and wear them and I love your style. Move on from STAATS because you are right. He’s making money from your hard work. It is and was a great brand, but there’s a future for just you.

[@tiffanymoon_567]

KAILEE you’re such a cutie!!

[@Nisu58]

If you start a new brand, I would love to support🤍

[@arelyrodriguez8117]

would definitely support you if you ventured out to try your own thing 🫶🏼💓 stay hopeful friend!

[@talul4h]

Hell no pls quit but start a new fashion business would luv to support !

[@EllaRoseX]

Avery just commented that you are misleading us on his IG. 🤬 you’re worth a million of him

[@kaileemckenzie]

😂

[@elizabethm3748]

Wasn’t to keen on purchasing from your brand before as you have always said you & your ex had started it and still run it. I’d like to support YOU solely. Idk that guy.

[@elizabethm3748]

So I’ll be happy to support you if you do decide to depart 😊

[@dominiquej5465]

why dont you propose selling the business? and in closing you may be able yo negotiate staying on as ceo or retaining ownership. speak to an investment banker? i feel like you have more than 2 options!!!

[@smiljka99]

Yeah there is so many options.. idk

[@HeyitsDeirdre]

hi there

[@xFreakyFresh]

you should definitely start something new that is only yours!! The audacity of your ex-partner to ask for that much money even though you've been doing all the work...

[@kristinaarsenic5842]

What your business partner is doing is so immoral, not even considering that he was your romantic partner. This sucks and i’m sorry for you. I also admire your strength and i know you will be successful with whatever you choose next! 💕

[@jackiem6087]

Kailee, we all knew he was bad news.

[@kristinchong629]

Like the internet. So amazing. Like literally rebuilt the internet. And like men r so weird to the point even bubbling themselves out of profits. Like maybe some people knew the KZbin game was always a bubble for a select selection of winners. But like yea how is it like they made all these kids be a user of internet and make a video with such low impact return of themselves. Like yeah sure tik tok bucket hat but like it really is how do u teach the kids todo the difficult thing of science. But obsessed.

[@monkeytown8]

The way you talk about the first two years of staats and averys role in the brand seems pretty disingenuous

[@Eihams]

Hehe my boyfriend plays magic too 🤭 it’s actually really fun you should learn!! It took me forever to actually be able to grasp it and enjoy it though lol ❤️‍🩹

[@Rachel-kx1ns]

I'm not sure what legal leg you have to stand on but maybe trying to reach a settlement with lawyers could find a middle ground of buying out Avery for a lower amount than what he is asking considering you've been doing all the work for years and grown the profit margins without him? from the sounds of his behaviour he could get pretty ruthless though.. hoping for your sake you can reach an outcome where you're happy even if that means stepping away from it yourself, you know all of us would be behind you with any future business you decide to start