Real Talk & Real Results: Meet Kari Sorensen of Kinship Creative
Bold brands, bright visuals, and deep strategy — Kinship Creative is where aesthetics meet alignment. Led by Kari Sorensen, a former teacher turned creative strategist, this Ventura-based boutique studio is changing the game for women-led businesses who are done playing small.
Kari doesn’t just design websites — she builds confidence. Through soulful branding, custom sites, and thoughtful marketing, she helps clients clarify their message, elevate their presence, and show up with unapologetic clarity. With roots in teaching, a heart for storytelling, and a sharp eye for design, Kari’s approach is both strategic and deeply human.
Q: What do you do and who do you serve?
Kari: I help bold business owners show up with clarity, confidence, and that glow-up energy. Through Kinship Creative, I design high-touch websites and branding that feel as good as they look — rooted in strategy, storytelling, and soul.
But I don’t just stop at design. I support my clients in planning brand photo shoots, refining their offers, and creating systems that work for them. Most of my clients are women juggling a lot — they’re creatives, coaches, therapists, and service providers who are ready to stop playing small and fully step into the spotlight.
Q: What inspired you to start Kinship Creative?
Kari: I was unexpectedly let go from a marketing agency that started cutting corners when things got tough. I knew I could create something better — something more honest, more human, and more supportive.
Before that, I was a public school teacher and created training programs to help adults re-enter the workforce. I also helped friends with their side hustles — websites, branding, messaging — and realized that teaching and creativity were always a big part of me. Kinship was born out of a love for storytelling, business, and empowering people to feel seen and supported.
And honestly, my mom played a huge role. I watched her run a salon and raise kids solo — she didn’t have support, and I wanted to become the kind of partner she never had in business.
Q: What’s one challenge you’ve overcome that shaped your journey?
Kari: I used to think success meant hitting all the external markers — promotions, paychecks, praise. Now, success is freedom: freedom to design a life that works for me, freedom to be fully present with my kids, and freedom to build a business that supports joy, not burnout.
That’s the kind of success I want for my clients, too — websites and brands that support their values and lives, not just their bottom line.
“Honey, if they don’t like the way you shine, hand them some sunglasses.”
— Kari Sorenson
Q: How do you nurture your mental and emotional health while pursuing big goals?
Kari: Lady Gaga said it best: “Mental health is not a destination, but a process.” Some days feel smooth, others feel chaotic — the key is intention.
I journal, create art, go to therapy, and check in with myself often. If something feels off, I don’t push through — I pause. That’s where real clarity comes from. I also give myself permission to rest without guilt — because burnout doesn’t serve anyone, especially not my clients.
Q: What are you currently celebrating?
Kari: I’ve helped over 50 clients — from Costco-level brands to home bakers — bring their vision to life. But more than that, I’m proud of the way I show up. I get to be the person who believes in others, helps them clarify their next steps, and celebrates the magic they’re creating.
Q: Who are you becoming?
Kari: I’m becoming someone who no longer shrinks to stay palatable. I take up space with creativity, with strategy, with boldness — because I’ve earned it.
I’m building a business that feels true to me and gives others the room to do the same. No fluff, no performative polish. Just real connection, real results, and real kinship.
Q: If you could go back and tell a past version of yourself one thing, what would it be?
Kari: I’d remind younger me that standing out isn’t something to be ashamed of — it’s your superpower. The bullying, the doubt, the discomfort? It shaped how I show up for others. And now, I get to help others shine, too.
Connect and Discover More
Kari Sorenson | Kinship Creative
Whether you're ready to elevate your brand, need a website that actually works, or simply want to connect with someone who gets the heart behind the hustle—reach out to Kari, start a conversation, and explore how Kinship Creative can help you glow up your business with strategy and soul.
