💛 The Heart Behind My Business: My Journey of Healing & New Beginnings

How life's challenges led me to create a space for women to feel seen, beautiful, and supported.

The Beginning of My Healing Journey

In 2014, I became a mum for the first time. What should have been one of the happiest times of my life became one of the hardest. After battling gestational diabetes (insulin-dependent), gaining over 30kg, and losing my sense of identity, I fell into a deep depression. At the time, I didn't even recognise the signs of postnatal depression — I just knew I didn't feel like myself anymore. I honestly believed that my family would be better off without me. Those were some of my darkest days.

It wasn't until my mum stepped in and gently pushed (that's a fib. She made me go, hehe) me to see a counsellor that I started to find my way back. With professional support, medication, and small steps like going to the gym, I slowly began to heal. Within a year, I was off medication, feeling stronger, and falling in love with motherhood in a way I hadn't been able to before.

Looking back, I realise I had no fundamental understanding of nutrition, self-care, or how to fuel my body. I was genuinely starting from scratch. Some of my first "healthy dinners" were quite dreadful (and I'm forever grateful to Matthew for eating every one of them with a smile!). But through trial and error, I began learning — not just about food, but also about myself.

 

From Shy Girl to Brave Businesswoman

I've always been a shy person. For most of my life, I barely spoke and was very quiet. I was the kid who moved around a lot and had to make new friends, so I was always a little anxious. I wore glasses and had long hair, which made me a target for kids who just wanted to find someone to bully. As I grew older by year 7, I learnt to hide behind a bold, confident exterior that I carefully crafted to hide the shy, bullied girl who was sick of crying over other kids. Those who know me well see both sides: the strong, outgoing woman and the quiet, vulnerable girl still learning to trust.

When I started my first business in the health and wellness sector, it was a significant leap. Speaking in front of a camera, putting myself out there, and sharing my journey publicly was terrifying. But it also unlocked a confidence I never thought I had. Even now, that shy little girl still whispers doubts in my ear, but I've learned how to remind her: we're safe now, gently.

 

A Second time in the journey of motherhood.

In 2017, I became pregnant with my second child. Determined not to repeat the struggles of my first pregnancy, I approached this one very differently. While pregnancy never comes easy for me (especially with ongoing hip issues — a story for another day), I only gained 12kg (all baby-making equipment), avoided insulin, and felt mentally so much stronger. When my daughter arrived, I knew the early signs of postnatal depression, and I sought help immediately. This time, I took control of my healing from the start.

 

A New Passion for Health & Nutrition

In 2019, I joined a business focused on clean products that supported the skin, mind, and gut — and I absolutely loved it. It inspired me to dig even deeper into the connection between what we put into our bodies and how we feel. This curiosity led me to enrol in a nutrition course in 2021, where I became a certified nutritionist, sports nutritionist, and health and wellness coach. The more I learned, the more passionate I became about helping others understand how food truly impacts our health — far beyond the misleading messages we often receive.

I started seeing 1:1 clients, and while I loved helping people, the one-on-one sessions brought back old anxieties. My inner shy girl still struggled with meeting new people, worrying: What if they don't like me? Eventually, I realised that while I loved sharing my knowledge, the constant mental strain wasn't sustainable.

That's when I pivoted and began writing. I poured my knowledge into nutrition books designed for people like me at the start of my journey, who didn't know where to begin. In 2023, I completed my books. But by then, my confidence had waned, and I stopped sharing my work, letting the old voice of self-doubt grow louder. 

A Major Career Shift — And A Leap of Faith

Around the same time, I took on a new job, hoping it would be my long-term path. But after three years, I knew it wasn't right. The constant stress was wearing me down, and I would come home emotionally drained, unable to be fully present for my kids. My breaking point came as I was preparing for a major hip replacement surgery. I was physically and mentally at my lowest, wondering what the future held.

And then, on one of many trips to Mackay before my surgery, I had a simple yet powerful thought: I love clothes. I love how they make me feel.

I decided to start my own small business independently. I began selling hair accessories and a few dresses. Since I was recovering and unable to move much, I spent hours researching suppliers and sourcing beautiful pieces. Slowly, my small collection grew, and soon, I was selling at markets — a whole new world for me.

Despite the nerves, I fell in love with it. Meeting new people and seeing the joy on a woman's face when she tried on something that made her feel beautiful, reignited something in me. 

 

The Birth of Luxe Whitsundays and Kenley Collective

As my market business grew, so did the challenges — including attempts to prevent me from selling from specific suppliers. It was disheartening, but it also pushed me to dream bigger. Matthew and I discussed converting part of our home into a small boutique space. Still, in the end, we decided against having people constantly at our house, which is our haven. 

Around this time, I reconnected with a friend (The gorg Trish O'Sing) I hadn't seen in years, and we began discussing the possibility of collaborating. That conversation became the beginning of Luxe Whitsundays and Kenley Collective — the beautiful store we've built today. From a tiny soft opening to renovations (which I'm not very handy at!) to the vibrant, welcoming boutique we now have — it's been a true labour of love.

Coming Full Circle

Opening the shop reignited my passion for wellness and nutrition. Now, in a healthier headspace, I once again feel called to share my journey and support other women who may be struggling like I once was — or who need a safe space to land.

I'm incredibly proud of what we've built. It hasn't always been easy. The journey has had its dark moments, its doubts, and its bumps along the way. However, it's also been filled with learning, growth, healing, and connection.

 

This Is My Heart.

I didn't go into business to compete, to prove anything, or to impress anyone. I went into business because I believe deeply in creating spaces where women feel beautiful, seen, safe, and supported — whether through fashion, wellness, or simple human connection.

This is my why.

This is my heart.

And I'm excited for all that's still to come.

 

Thank you for allowing me to share my story with you.

My journey reminds anyone struggling that healing is possible, growth is messy, but every step forward is worth it.

💛 With love and gratitude,

Kenley

 

If any part of my story resonates with you, please know you are never alone. Our boutique and wellness offerings exist to create a safe space for women just like you — and like me.

I would love to welcome you in-store or online whenever you're ready. 💛
Or visit my updated nutritionist website: www.healthywanderers.com.au