Kristene Smith, Author/Designer, CEO
Kristene Smith is the CEO of Kristene Smith, Incorporated™, parent company to the award-winning creative studio Kristene Smith Advertising™ and the eco-luxury home fashions collection Kristene Home Couture™. Seeking new, creative outlets for her company, she launched Kristene Home Couture in 2010. Her admitted "fabric obsession" keeps her curious about innovations in sustainability in the textiles industry. Always seeking the best environmentally-friendly fabrics for her hand-painted designs, her products are now available to consumers worldwide through her online store and select retailers. Called "the hottest, coolest, greenest items for spring and fall," the collection boasts originality and authenticity for “people who expect to lead stylish lives™”.
A consultant, author, and designer who began her career in 1996, Kristene is recognized for her creative abilities as well as her expertise in brand strategy, communications, design, textiles and interiors. She is also the author of four books on business image. Her Style Tips of the Week series of books and e-books help global professionals grow their image in four areas: branding, fashion, entertaining, and interiors. Her new title, Guide to Green Fabrics™, is the ultimate eco-fiber reference guide for textiles professionals, design students, fashion and interior designers, product manufacturers, and home sewers who want more environmentally responsible fabric options.
Kristene Smith, Incorporated received the California Black Chamber of Commerce Ron Brown Memorial “Small Business of the Year” Award in 2001; California State Senate recognition for marketing excellence; and the “Destiny” award from PWOE, the Progressive Women of Excellence. Kristene has also been named one of Sacramento Magazine’s “20 Women We Admire”.
Kristene connects with audiences through magazine, newspaper, television and new media appearances (including the Fox, ABC, and UPN networks, iTunes and YouTube, and Redbook Magazine) giving advice on design, style and business image. She has a global audience from London to California to New York City to Bangkok, Thailand.