Kris is the founder and designer behind Snappy Clothing and has always been passionate about creativity and enjoyed drawing from a very young age. He took the initiative to teach himself Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator design software and soon started taking on freelance design work while in high school. His hard work, ingenious ideas and high demand for his brilliant work have given him enormous confidence. Despite his Spinal Muscular Atrophy condition which regulates him to a wheelchair, Kris found ways around the obstacles he faced to proudly found his own clothing company. We want to congratulate Kris for all his inspirational achievements.

How did you get the idea to start your apparel line Snappy Clothing? Which role is more challenging, entrepreneur or designer and why?K:  A lot of the freelance design requests I received were for graphic apparel. I found these jobs to be especially rewarding, and wanted to launch my own clothing store, where I could bring to life and sell whatever ideas I thought were cool. The role of designer and the role of entrepreneur each bring unique challenges. I’m familiar with the creative challenges that come with being a designer. However, the entrepreneurial endeavors of acquiring business licenses, reseller permits, wholesale accounts, marketing, and building and maintaining the ecommerce store have been unfamiliar territory.

What is your own favorite design creation? How do you usually conceive an idea for your clothing line?K:  Choosing a favorite design is a bit like choosing a favorite child. I like them all for different reasons. If I had to pick one, I really like the typography, illustration, and vintage feel of the “Float Like a Butterfly, Sting Like a Bee” shirt. Inspiration for designs can come from any number of sources, such as a conversation with a friend, current events, or a song lyric.

What is the one thing you loved about your school days?K: I always excelled in my art classes, but other than that, I was a pretty average student. (mostly B’s and C’s) However, I always enjoyed the social and collaborative aspects of school.

What do you like to do when you are with your family/friends?K: I’m a big fan of my local Seattle sports teams. So I love to watch the Seahawks and Mariners play. I really enjoy supporting my local music scene, and going to concerts and music festivals. I also love to travel. I’ve currently been to 15 states, Canada, New Zealand, and Costa Rica, and I’m planning a trip to the Caribbean this summer!

Can you give tips/advice for those in our community who pursue their creativity?K:  There are lots of opportunities for people with creative skills. Talent and creativity are not enough to be successful though. You have to be willing to work hard, and constantly improve and expand your skill set.

Any special message for our community?K: Don’t allow your disability to be an excuse for lack of achievement. Set goals and find a way to achieve them.