Guided by the belief that small businesses are the cornerstones of our communities, The Scout Guide Houston connects readers with the entrepreneurs, makers, movers, and shakers that make Houston a vibrant place to live, work, and visit. Our most recent Guide, Volume 6, serves as an introduction to a handful of Houston’s many small business owners. And this series, Meet the Members, is a continuation of that introduction and an opportunity to deepen your connection with these entrepreneurs. Follow along as we chat with Volume 6 and share their stories, inspiration, and motivation. Up next? Elizabeth Kendrick, owner + founder of the hand-smocked children’s clothing brand, Ann + Reeves Kids.  

---

The Scout Guide Houston: Elizabeth, welcome to The Scout Guide Houston! We’d love to start our chat with a little background… What motivated you to start Ann + Reeves Kids?
Elizabeth Kendrick: Thank you! I’m honored to be Scouted! First and foremost, I started the business for my daughter, Margaret.

TSG Houston: Starting a business is quite an endeavor. What motivated you to take the entrepreneurial leap?
EK: I was eager to find clothes for my daughter that were affordable and celebration-worthy, no matter the occasion. I took a leap while on maternity leave and never looked back! Whether it’s a holiday, birthday, or just Taco Tuesday, our clothes make dressing your child fun!

TSG Houston: Where did the name come from?
EK: Ann + Reeves is named after my mother and father!

TSG Houston: All of your adorable pieces are adorable and hand-smocked. Truly heirloom-quality. Is there anything else that readers should know about your business?
EK: That I leave the hand-smocking to a very talented pro! I actually don’t know how to smock!

TSG Houston: That illustrates one of the best pieces of advice we were given: hire for your weaknesses. What’s the best advice you were given when starting your business?
EK: Build meaningful relationships! The relationships with our customers are the best part of the business, and they’re why we are where we are!

TSG Houston: Our readers will be surprised to learn that Ann + Reeves is your “side hustle” and that you have a full-time job in addition to being a mother. Do you have any advice for balancing work and life?
EK: Yes, I have a full-time job in addition to being a mom, wife, friend, daughter, a Junior League of Houston volunteer, and a supporter of my alma mater, Kinkaid. To balance all these roles, I have to be honest with myself about what I can take on and be unafraid to ask for help. Learn that you don’t have to do everything alone. I have the best husband, mom & dad, sister, friends… I couldn’t do it without them!

TSG Houston: It definitely takes a village. Speaking of community, let’s chat about Houston. How long have you called Houston home?
EK: My whole life with the exception of 4 years in Nashville for undergrad at Vanderbilt!

TSG Houston: What’s your favorite part of town?
EK: Our neighborhood – Briargrove! We love all the families and friends we’ve made here!

TSG Houston: What’s the best part of living in Houston?
EK: Houston is like a small town in a big city – it’s the greatest network, the most fun city, and incredibly dynamic!

TSG Houston: Do you have a favorite restaurant?
EK: I can’t pick just one! We got to Molina’s every Sunday as a family and save Bludorn for special occasions. China Garden is an old favorite, too!

TSG Houston: What about a happy hour spot?
EK: Tiny Boxwoods! And don’t forget to grab a cookie to go with your happy hour beverage of choice!

TSG Houston: One last question… How do you stay inspired?
EK: My little one! She’s so fun, growing every day! I’ve loved getting to share this part of my job with her.

---

We look forward to sharing more of Ann + Reeves Kids’ story with you over the next year – in the meantime, make sure to follow along on with @annreevesids on Instagram to stay up to date on their latest drops!