Kendra Scott is a name that resonates with innovation, entrepreneurial spirit, and philanthropy. With a net worth of $900 million, she has turned her passion for jewelry design into a global lifestyle brand. From modest beginnings in her spare bedroom to building a billion-dollar empire, Scott’s journey is a testament to hard work, creativity, and resilience. Today, Kendra Scott is not just known for her jewelry, but for her impact on the fashion industry and her philanthropic efforts. Let’s dive into the life and career of this self-made entrepreneur and explore how she transformed her vision into a thriving business.
Early Life and Career Origins
Born Kendra Baumgartner on March 27, 1974, in Kenosha, Wisconsin, Scott’s early life didn’t hint at the massive success she would one day achieve. At the age of 16, her family relocated to Houston, Texas, where she completed her high school education. After spending a year at Texas A&M University, Kendra left college to support her stepfather, who was battling brain cancer. His passing and his final words—”Do good”—inspired her to make a difference in the world.
Her first entrepreneurial venture was The Hat Box, a business offering comfortable headwear for women undergoing chemotherapy. This experience helped her realize the power of creating products that not only served a purpose but also made women feel beautiful and empowered. Her journey into jewelry design began in the same spirit—creating meaningful, beautiful pieces that women could cherish.
Launching Kendra Scott, LLC
In 2002, after giving birth to her first son, Kendra Scott launched her namesake jewelry brand with only $500. She began designing jewelry from her home in Austin, Texas, and personally walked her designs into local boutiques. Her goal was simple: create affordable, beautiful jewelry with a philanthropic core. Scott reinvested every dollar into materials, and her dedication paid off.
By 2005, Kendra’s jewelry was featured in Oscar de la Renta’s runway show, marking a major turning point in her career. Despite the challenges of the 2008 financial crisis, she survived the downturn and received a significant boost when Nordstrom placed an order. This order propelled her business forward and led to the opening of her first retail store on South Congress Avenue in Austin in 2010.
As the brand grew, so did its reach. In 2016, Kendra Scott’s company was valued at $1 billion, attracting investors like Berkshire Partners, who took a minority stake in the business. Kendra’s unique approach to jewelry design—focusing on custom, colorful gemstones—helped her carve out a niche in a crowded market.
Expanding the Brand and Business
Over the years, Kendra Scott’s brand expanded well beyond jewelry. The company now offers a diverse product line that includes fine jewelry, accessories, fragrances, watches, and even home goods. In 2021, Kendra stepped down as CEO, but she continued to lead the brand as Executive Chairwoman and Chief Creative Officer. Her creative vision remained integral to the brand’s success as it grew into a multi-category lifestyle brand.
In 2024, private equity firm 65 Equity Partners acquired Berkshire Partners’ stake in Kendra Scott’s business. The deal valued the company at over $1 billion, and Kendra retained a majority ownership, increasing her equity. This deal marked another significant milestone in her career, as it ensured the continued growth of the company into new markets and product categories.
Today, Kendra Scott operates over 130 retail locations and continues to partner with high-profile retailers such as Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, and Target. The brand’s success is also attributed to its innovative approach to customer experience, particularly through the Color Bar customization platform, which allows customers to design their own jewelry pieces.
Entrepreneurial Recognition and Philanthropy
Kendra Scott’s influence extends beyond the jewelry industry. As a philanthropist, she has made a significant impact through the Kendra Scott Foundation, which supports causes such as children’s hospitals, women’s entrepreneurship, and disaster relief. Through her “Kendra Gives Back” events, the company has donated millions of dollars in jewelry and funds to various nonprofit organizations.
Scott has also been recognized for her entrepreneurial achievements. In 2017, she was named EY Entrepreneur of the Year, and she was honored as CEO of the Year by the Austin Business Journal. Her ability to balance business success with social responsibility has set her apart as a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Family Life and Personal Achievements
Kendra Scott’s personal life has also made headlines, particularly her relationships and family life. She has been married three times and is the mother of three sons: Cade (from her first marriage), Beck, and Grey. Despite facing personal challenges, including the end of her second marriage and a brief third marriage, Kendra has remained focused on her children and her career.
In May 2024, Kendra found new love with musician Zac Brown. The couple, both with families from previous marriages, quickly formed a strong bond. Their relationship gained public attention when they appeared together at the American Music Awards, and in July 2025, Zac proposed to Kendra at sunset on a pier, presenting her with a stunning pink diamond ring.
Kendra’s new relationship with Zac has not only brought personal happiness but has also created a powerful partnership. Both Kendra and Zac are parents to large blended families, and their connection is one of mutual respect, creativity, and shared values.
Kendra Scott’s Net Worth
With a net worth of $900 million, Kendra Scott has built an impressive fortune through her hard work, creativity, and business acumen. Her wealth comes from the success of her jewelry brand, which continues to thrive in the competitive fashion industry. Kendra’s journey from a small startup to a billion-dollar company is a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to her craft.
Her net worth is also bolstered by her real estate ventures, investments, and public appearances. As a prominent figure in the fashion and business world, Kendra Scott is a highly sought-after speaker, mentor, and collaborator, making her one of the most influential entrepreneurs of her generation.
