WOMEN WHO INSPIRE

At KF, we believe in the power of women. Each month, we'll introduce you to a 'Woman Who Inspires'. These incredible women are entrepreneurs, innovators and makers who are paving their own way in business, education, society, motherhood, and many more aspects of life.  Learn how they started their ventures, the challenges they faced along the way and see how they are building their future - all of our futures - while inspiring others.

Creator of National Marketing Agency Ready Pretty, Jeannine Adams

Jeannine is a seasoned pro in the PR/Marketing world and founder of the online marketplace and digital marketing agency Ready Pretty.  She's a mom, a business owner, and friend who works with women-led, independent businesses all over the US. To say Jeannine is a master of growing brands would be an understatement. She is what we like to call a 'Super Connector'.

Introduce yourself!

My name is Jeannine Benoit Adams and I’m the founder of Ready Pretty - we’re an online marketplace and digital marketing agency for independent, women-led brands and boutiques. I’m also a mom to two boys and soon-to-be baby girl! Every day I get to help women launch and grow their dreams - my agency helps with everything from web design, to content marketing, to social media, to working with influencers and everything in between. I pinch myself almost everyday that I am so lucky that I get to do what I do. 

Why did you start your own company or brand/ become an entrepreneur/ be your own boss?

Prior to starting Ready Pretty, I worked at all the big agencies in Chicago doing PR and marketing for brands like Levis, Jim Beam, Macy’s, and more. After more than a decade of working with major and established brands, I realized I could make a bigger impact on the brands that really needed my help and expertise. 

What has been your biggest failure in business and what did you learn from it?

Prior to Ready Pretty, I launched a small batch of customizable women's blouses. Entrepreneurship runs in my family and I guess you could say I caught the bug early. To say that was a failure would be the understatement of the century (ha)! But throughout that process I learned so much, made so many connections, grew my network and quickly learned that clothing designer was not in my future! I like to think that your failures lead you to where you are today and to be honest, I don’t know that Ready Pretty would be Ready Pretty without that little blip of experience.

What is the first thing you do after waking up to jumpstart a successful day?

Drink a giant glass of water, then meditate or workout. I like to do it before my entire family wakes up - I cherish those quiet few moments before the chaos starts. That said, I secretly love the chaos too. 

What tools (apps, books, podcasts, etc.) would you recommend to anyone trying to start their own business/ makes your work day easier?

I listen to How I Built This by Guy Raz, Shopify Masters and Project Entrepreneur for major business inspiration.

What person in history, living or dead, has inspired you and how?

I had the pleasure of briefly meeting Sara Blakely - as I was part of Rent The Runway’s Project Entrepreneur a few years ago and she was the keynote speaker. I knew her story, but was so awestruck at her overall vibe in person. I just so appreciate her hustle, her ability to think really big and her ‘why not me’ perspective. When I’m feeling overwhelmed or have that occasional ‘can we do this’ moment (which as a business owner I think we can all feel at times) I try to push my inner Sara Blakely voice to the front. Why not me? 

Let's Get Deep... 

What emoji(s) do you use most when texting?

That weird drunk, smirking emoji face. 🥴

Go-to cocktail?

Gin & Tonic, no lime.

What book are you currently reading?

My mom’s! Yes, my mom just wrote her first book. It’s called Liam & Parker by Marlene Noel Benoit and as her daughter, I got a sneak peek! 

Go-To favorite garment in your closet that always makes you feel amazing?

Levi’s 501 High Rise Denim

What is your signature scent?

On the hunt for one now. 

Early riser or Night owl?

Both.

Follow Jeannine and Ready Pretty at their social accounts:  Instagram        Facebook        Website