Today we’d like to introduce you to Marcella Kelley.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Marcella. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I grew up in a somewhat toxic environment. My parents used to argue constantly, and I would often find myself being caught in the middle trying to diffuse the situation. I lacked confidence, self-esteem, and self-worth so from early on, I learned to conceal my hurt.
I was the kid you’d call “socially awkward” a weirdo if you will so as much as I tried to fit in with different groups I never quite found a place. I remember as a child locking myself in my room for hours reading books, taking things apart and figuring out how to put them back together all the while listening to music on the radio. My friends were few and although I did enjoy being outside at some point I had to return home.
In school, I wasn’t exactly what was said to be “the model student,” but I loved literature. Writing became the escape I needed when I couldn’t escape from the life I had. I’d write about everything and it seemed like the writing was the only thing I excelled at.
Fast forward to adulthood when I look back at my childhood, I definitely feel like I went through it numbingly. I wasn’t taught how to deal with my emotions other than to have a strong attitude and to not let others see you sweat. Now being a parent myself I take great pride in being emotionally available.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
To have a smooth road in life teaches you nothing.
My name means “warrior” in Latin, so I feel like going through each chapter of my life it taught me something different. In school I got teased for my dark skin, being fat, and developing early, and with that, I contemplated suicide at a young age. School was my solace and when I could get peace at neither school nor home that pain was too much to bear.
I’ve been on this transient journey getting to know myself and doing things that I’ve always wanted to do even if that meant people judging me. My advice for young girls is to always love yourself first. You can’t pour from an empty cup. You may have people who don’t understand or like the way you’re moving, but if you walk with your head held high and with stellar confidence, nothing and no one can stop you.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with theMKeffect – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I have a vast majority of interest that range from baking, cooking, fashion, photography, writing, and modeling. I love being creative with every part of me. I love doing things that make myself and others feel good. I started out in my kitchen making things that I felt connected to and sharing it with those that I felt would appreciate it. When I’m cooking, I feel my grandparents spirit within me because they were restaurateurs in the city so although I didn’t know them I believe they are my guardian angels.
I think what sets me apart is that I have a keen eye for detail. I also have an awesome palate and have the ability to decipher smells and ingredients and when I don’t feel good about it I start it over. I would consider myself to be very persistent in getting things right.
What advice would you give to someone at the start of her career?
Do what makes you happy even if that means going against the status quo. Walk confidently and act like your shit doesn’t stink… humbly, of course.
Contact Info:
- Website: themkeffect.wordpress.com
- Email: myheartyourstomach@gmail.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/themkeffect
- Facebook: Facebook.com/marcella.kelley
- Twitter: Twitter.com/themkeffect
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