We recently had the chance to connect with Jes Peterson and have shared our conversation below.
Jes, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: When was the last time you felt true joy?
Many years ago a friend asked me what brings me joy, at that time my answer was nothing. I thought to myself what an annoying question and that one question weighed on me for many years after. Three years ago I found my joy, I bought a business! Everyday that I get to spend in my shop I feel joy, from the products to the customers, my amazing staff and a beautiful space to spend my time. I have found my joy in Kismet.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Jes Peterson and I own a magical little shop called Kismet. We are a high end consignment store with a wide variety of women’s clothing, shoes, purses, jewelry both in on trend and vintage as well furniture and decor. I have seen and sold some of the most amazing and unique items you could dream of. Kismet has been in the Rochester community for 21 years and I had the opportunity to purchase the business as well as the quirky buildings that we reside in. We expanded to an empty space next store and opened up our brother store Chappie’s Consignment for Dudes, same Kismet vibe but for men’s apparel and accessories. Our next adventure is on it’s way as we expand in to bridal consignment in 2026.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
I was at a job for 5 years, had a boss that passed me up for several promotions for bs reasons. They finally retired and the new recognized that I was the top sales person every year, was outgoing and had the personality he was looking for. He made up a job for me, I went to college, got a raise, all the good stuff. He was and continues to be my biggest cheerleader and I thank him for giving me the confidence and courage to be my best self.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
For the longest time I wanted to be an entrepreneur, I have had a million great ideas and have written several business plans. I bought fixtures and went to trade shows, met with bankers and checked out several lease opportunities. I gave up, worked a typical 9-5 for 10 years but its what I had to do to bring me here, to today. This time, Kismet brought me here and I will never give up. I have found my place, my peace and I am thriving.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Is the public version of you the real you?
I have never been anything but myself, and admittedly I don’t always make the best first impression. When we show up as our real authentic selves we attract real authentic people in return. The best relationships are built on being real. The phrase “fake it until you make it” is gross. Not everyone gets my brand of humor or enjoys my direct delivery but I am honest, kind and believe in giving people space to be themselves.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
When I am gone I hope to be remembered for my humor and drive. I want people to get up and tell a million stories about that one time I did that one thing that was bananas and we laughed until we cried. Recently I received a thank you card from a highschool grad I’ve know all their life that said “If I remember anything from you it was the parties (and a lot of bad words) I really admire how you keep the group together and the energy high, every group of friends need a Jes. You’re the coolest” This is my legacy statement.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kismetconsignment.biz/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kismet_consignment/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KismetConsignment
