Jesseca Dupart could truly be called the queen of social media marketing, and if anything, her photo should be beside the definition of "level up" in the dictionary. From her early viral videos rolling up on celebrities with her edge control and Miracle Drops, to building a following of more than 2 million followers on IG (and turning many of them into die-hard customers), she's launched her haircare brand, Kaleidoscope, into a multi-million-dollar empire.
As a teen mom, the New Orleans native pursued a career as a licensed cosmetologist and advanced into bringing her dreams of owning a salon to reality in 2006, building a loyal clientele for over a decade. A tragic fire served as a challenge but propelled her to go bigger and harder, and she reopened her salon in 2014, launching Kaleidoscope Hair Products in the same year. In 2017, she decided to pursue the other side of the industry as a product-line boss full-time, and extended the legacy by launching KaleidoKares, an organization that gives back to the community. She's done all of this while juggling duties of being a proud partner (to bae and hip-hop icon DaBrat), grandmother, and businesswoman.
Courtesy of Kaleidoscope
If there's one woman who can remind us all that there are no excuses to go for yours, it's Jesseca. Find out more about what her version of "balance" is, how she's continuing to make sure Kaleidoscope becomes a household name, and her advice for young women looking to boss up on their own terms:
xoNecole: You've built up a huge presence on social and launched your brand into success via word-of-mouth. What was the key to infiltrating the market and cultivating a unique brand?
Jesseca Dupart: I was doing something called the 'Edge Police,' and I would hire people who were popular online. [Comedian] Michael Blackston was coming to New Orleans, and I reached out to his team to see if I could get him to do a video. Initially, I was just bringing him the products to make a video, but instead, we decided to shoot a mini-skit where I knocked on the door, and I told him, "I saw the woman you were downstairs with and she was baldheaded." Honestly, that one video basically walked me into the door with other people. It went from one celebrity to another.
I will say, the lesson in that was to never be afraid to reach out.
Before I reached out to him, I got a million no's. It took one yes to open a door that I didn't even think would be the one.
Tell us a few lessons about the day-to-day aspects of running a business that you wish you'd learned early in your career?
Honestly, I wish I'd learned [the practice of] team-building and hiring properly. I've never had to do a resume ever, so looking at them was like [reading] a different language. Also, I had to learn about how to follow up or call referrals. That has been one of the biggest lessons for me to date.
Another lesson was scaling at the right time and not necessarily being scared to invest money into the business. You have to make sure you're paying attention to what's growing and the speed at which it's growing. Pay attention to the products that are moving fast and be sure to keep up with your inventory.
The third lesson involves understanding the changes of social [media]. Since it's ever-changing, never get discouraged with the way it changes. I'm a person who has a passion for content, so we would do these big campaigns, and but then social changed, and it's like, "They're not interested in two-minute videos." That can be a hit on someone who's a creative who likes to do larger projects. So, it's just about knowing how to pivot when the changes come.
What tips do you have for someone just starting out today—those looking to launch a brand that can surpass the viral moments and stand the test of time, as your brand has?
My biggest thing was what I found when I paid attention to social [media]. You'd see [brands] that had a great ride but then they would start to slow down. So, in my first 18 months of doing business, I put all of my profit back into it. I would not touch it for a long time. I didn't want to touch my profit at $2,000 and say, "Hey, we did good this week." I wanted to touch it at $200,000. So, you might have to sit through and celebrate with your friends on their successes that might have come faster than yours. You might have to watch social and celebrate things but never celebrate too early. Always keep your foot on the gas and keep your eye on the end goal.
A lot of money can come fast, but if you don't spend it correctly, you'll lose the business. There's a difference between a lifestyle and a moment. It could be, "I have this great business. I was able to buy this fancy car," but then you don't have enough money to keep up inventory or enough to scale to put into marketing because you've spent it all. I think the focus should be on creating a brand and making sure you reinvest in your company, versus trying to create an image.
That's great advice! And as a mom, businesswoman, and partner doing all that you do, what does work-life balance look like for you?
I'll tell you when I find out. That is the hardest thing in the world. If I'm in the bed, and I'm on the phone, it might look like I'm on Instagram being nosey or doing this, that, or the other, but sometimes I'll be up all night writing down ideas. Sometimes, I'm closing out emails or doing other things for the business. The balance? I haven't found it yet. When is a slow time in business? The times where I think it's slow are the times when we have to put the structure together for when business picks up. It's hard.
That's understandable, but what do you do for self-care? What is something that Jesseca does just for Jesseca—a treat or must-have for you?
Honestly, I am a stickler about having my hair looking a certain way, so I keep products around. And after stepping from behind the chair and taking this journey of wearing my own natural hair, I just like styling my own hair.
I also absolutely love music. It's the perfect combination of Jesus and Jeezy. If I need to get pumped up or get my creative juices going, I turn on trap music. In the morning, I'll put on a Joel Osteen podcast and some Christian music to make sure I'm starting off grateful and in the right mental space.
Where do you see Kaleidoscope in the future?
I never put limits on God. Every time I try to put a plan out or say where I think I'm going to be, we surpass it. I can say that I love marketing and I have a passion for teaching people how to sell products or services—how to position their products and how to offer an experience, those sorts of things.
In 10 years, besides being a household name, I want Kaleidoscope to have as much distribution as possible not only in the haircare aisle but in other aisles. We want to tap into different markets and expand as far as God blesses us to reach.
Find out more about Jesseca Dupart and Kaleidoscope products via her Instagram or the brand's website.
Featured image courtesy of Kaleidoscope
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It's easy for couples to fall into a routine, going through the motions and letting their connection sit on autopilot. While comfort is natural in a long-term relationship, it’s important to remember: that what you don’t nurture, eventually fades. So, why not make 2025 the year you reset your relationship? Here’s how to start the year with a renewed bond, reigniting the spark that brought you together.
Step 1: Schedule Your Reset Meeting
The first step to hitting the reset button is a State of the Union meeting with your partner. This is your chance to take a pulse on the relationship, discuss what's working, and identify areas that need attention. It’s all about creating space to reflect, without distractions.
Grab a pen and paper (or open a shared note on your phone) and come prepared to share your top 2-3 desires for your relationship.
What do you both want to feel more of in 2025? Maybe it’s feeling more appreciated, or perhaps you want to reignite the passion you had when you first started dating. Whatever it is, get clear about it, and make sure both of you are on the same page.
This isn’t just about listing your own wants, it’s also about discussing ways to nurture each other’s needs. Relationship goals should be focused on fostering deeper intimacy, trust, and mutual respect. Use this time to check in, not only with each other but with your individual feelings and expectations. Set the foundation for a fulfilling year ahead.
Alistair Berg/Getty ImagesStep 2: Set A Date (Or Multiple!)
Having the meeting is only the first step. Now, it’s time to take action. One of the simplest ways to breathe new life into a relationship is by reintroducing consistent, intentional time spent together. For many couples, life gets busy, and date nights fall by the wayside. But dating doesn’t stop when you say "I do"—in fact, it’s even more essential.
During your reset meeting, lock in a regular date night that works for both of your schedules. This could be a weekly dinner date or an every-other-week adventure—whatever keeps things fresh. The goal is consistency. It’s easy to push date nights aside when life gets hectic, but if you set a specific date each week or month, you’re making your relationship a priority.
If you’re unsure what to do for your date nights, don’t worry! The key is creating new experiences together. This is what sparks excitement and brings you closer as a couple. Whether it’s cooking a new recipe together, trying a dance class, or exploring a nearby town, it’s about creating shared memories that build your connection.
Getty ImagesStep 3: Find an Accountability Partner
Just like you might have a personal trainer to help you crush your fitness goals, an accountability partner for your relationship can do wonders for keeping both of you on track. Consider hiring a marriage coach or therapist—someone who can meet you where you are and guide you in strengthening your relationship.
When selecting a professional, it’s important to choose someone who truly wants the best for your marriage and can provide actionable advice.
Don’t be afraid to set high standards for your relationship, and seek guidance on how to keep it thriving for the long haul. In your reset meeting, discuss your commitment to growth, and be honest about areas where you may need support.
Marriage isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it endeavor—it’s an ongoing process. Regular check-ins with a professional can help keep your relationship in tip-top shape and “divorce-proof” by addressing issues before they become insurmountable.
DMP/ Getty ImagesStep 4: Try Something New Together
Stale routines can easily make a relationship feel monotonous. Spice things up by trying something new! Couples that explore new activities and create new memories together have stronger, more fulfilling bonds.
My husband and I host one of the top luxury marriage retreats, A Weekend For Love, designed to help couples experience new things together. From couples' workshops to outdoor adventures, the retreat provides a platform to rediscover each other and reconnect on a deeper level.
The element of surprise can reignite your connection. It’s exciting, fresh, and shows your partner that you’re committed to growing together. This doesn’t have to be a huge commitment—it could be as simple as trying a new hobby or planning an impromptu weekend getaway.
Your Relationship Should Be A Priority
As you start the year with personal goals in mind, don’t forget the importance of nurturing your relationship. It’s easy to get caught up in work, fitness, and family obligations, but your bond with your partner deserves to be at the top of your list. Resetting your relationship offers an opportunity to reignite that spark and remind each other why you fell in love in the first place.
In 2025, make a commitment to prioritize your partnership, to nurture it daily, and to invest in its growth. Take time to celebrate each other’s victories, support one another’s dreams, and build a foundation of love and respect. When you start the year with a clear focus on your relationship, you’re setting it up for success.
So, before you start mapping out your new workout plan or work goals, do yourself a favor: put your relationship at the top of that list. Your love story deserves a fresh start, too.
Happy New Year, and here’s to a love-filled 2025!
Couples, if you are ready to do the work and invest in your relationship register for A Weekend For Love: Heart Retreat Feb 21-23, 2025.
Featured image by zamrznutitonovi/Getty Images
However, to my surprise, I received an email that read: “It’s with great excitement that we announce your film, Super High: A Period Piece, has been selected for the 24th Anchorage International Film Festival.” After looking at the flight distance from Atlanta to Anchorage—a solid 10 hours one way— I’d decided this would be one I wouldn’t attend.
That was until there was a follow-up email that shared that the festival was sponsoring two excursions for filmmakers: A Northern Lights Tour and A Glacier Hike.
With that, I knew I had to make the trip to the 49th state! I flew Delta, which offered the shortest layovers—just 50 minutes each way. For a more comfortable flight on the longer legs that were about six hours between my layover city and Anchorage, I upgraded to first class with an in-app discount for $256 (the regular price of a first-class ticket runs about $2,100), which was so worth it for additional space and service for the six-hour trek.
Courtesy of Bianca Lambert
"So What’s Alaska Like? Did You Have To Wear a Snowsuit? What’s the Food Like?"
These are among the major questions I’ve gotten. Anchorage reminds me less of a bustling major city and more of a small town with an easygoing feel. When I arrived, they’d just had snow a few days before, so it was cold, and the streets were slick. So, I was so happy I’d invested in a pair of snow boots. For my first few days, the locals said it was warm. Warm to them being 20s at night and mid-30s during the day.
However, by the time I left, fresh snow was on the ground, and temps were well into the single digits—and it felt like it. Oh, the sun doesn’t rise until 10:30 a.m., and it sets around 4 p.m. That was among the most challenging things to experience because I felt like I never really woke up. So, between the lack of sun and the four-hour time difference, I felt tired the whole time I was there.
As for food, I didn’t explore a ton because I was so cold. But I found two gems! First was Whiskey and Ramen. If you enjoy ramen and exceptional service, this is a must-visit. I’d make a trip back just for their Wagyu ramen and their special take on an old fashion!
And, for coffee, I thoroughly enjoyed That Feeling Co. The coffee was great, and being surrounded by plants helped to perk up my spirits.
The Northern Lights
Iceland is one of the most popular places to see the Northern Lights, so I was very excited to know that Alaska also gets to see the Aurora Borealis light show. Typically, many people visit Fairbanks to see them, but there are tours offered in Anchorage too! When prepping for the late-night tour, we’d heard that the night we were heading out to see the lights, the cloud coverage likely meant we wouldn’t be able to see them. Bummer. I know. So, we could sit the tour out or still try. But, in my mind, I was like, why would I come all the way to Alaska not to try?
So, at about 9:30 p.m., we piled into vans and headed out to chase the Northern Lights. We traveled about an hour and a half from Anchorage, and when we stepped out of the van, it was cold and pitch black. And unfortunately, after a couple of hours in the cold, those clouds in the sky never parted for us. I know that when we see the posts of people who do get to see Mother Nature do her thing, we don’t have all of the context of the science, which is Aurora Borealis.
Sometimes, the weather just doesn’t do what we earthlings would like, which can lead to disappointment. However, our guide did give a recommendation. When you book a trip to see the lights, give yourself four to five days to see them. Don’t bank on one day because, at the end of the day, this is science.
Courtesy of Bianca Lambert
Now, On to the Glacier!
Just six hours after returning from the Northern Lights tour, we were up for the glacier tour because they were back-to-back! I was exhausted and so excited. If someone had told me I’d hike on a glacier, I would have given them a mean side-eye. I mean, where on earth does one climb a glacier? Let me share a few destinations with you, just in case you want to plan an icy adventure: Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Chile, Argentina, and Alaska.
Aside from the fact the Matanuska Glacier is 22,000 years old, it’s the largest glacier accessible by car in the United States—27 miles long and four miles wide, making it one of the easier ones to see IRL. As a girlie with generalized anxiety disorder, I get anxious about doing this kind of thing because I know that to see these world wonders is usually a mountainous trek.
This one was two hours long, one-way, up snow-capped, windy, mountainous terrain. However, my therapist always reminds me to push myself to do what scares me (as long as it’s for a reason, of course). I held my breath for the journey there and back! And white-knuckled it from time to time, too.
Courtesy of Bianca Lambert
Once we got there, we were surrounded by fresh, fluffy snow, and it was COLD! In the negative cold. I was thankful, I’d over-prepared. If you even go on a glacier tour, I recommend a few things: Balaclava, heavy-weight gloves, cashmere socks, snow boots, and lots of layers.
Here’s what I wore. My first layer was Ann Taylor leggings and a Wolford Turtleneck. Then, I layered a cashmere turtleneck and cashmere joggers. A COACH down vest, which I’d recommend anyone own just for winter, in general, because it’s SO warm! For my feet, I wore Ann Taylor cashmere socks (I love these because they’re affordable and so warm) and Adidas Adifom Superstar Winter Boot and topped all of that with a Brandon Blackwood ankle-length parka. I know BB is known for his accessories, but the brand’s outwear is truly amazing and worth the investment. After two hours on the ice, I felt great!
If you’re open to adventure travel, I highly recommend putting a glacier tour on your list of things to do. There are a few reasons. First, standing on an ice age-old massive piece of glacier was my 2024 version of touching some grass. I was reminded that I’m a speck on this spinning rock and need to spend more time grounded in that fact as I move through the world. I looked to the sky and thought of how proud my ancestors would be, even though I know they’d be telling me to get my butt home and off a dog on a glacier!
Secondly, I gained an ever-large appreciation for Mother Nature as I learned that glaciers are the world's largest reservoir of freshwater, containing around 69% of the world's freshwater. Again, another fact that helped me gain perspective. Lastly, it’s just fun and stunningly beautiful!
After this, I’m looking forward to my next cold-weather adventure! Iceland and Argentina are at the top of the list!
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Featured image courtesy of Bianca Lambert