Krystle Nickels shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Good morning Krystle, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Something that’s been bringing me so much joy lately is the local book club I joined. Each month, we all vote on a new book to read and then meet at the end of the month to share our thoughts (and plenty of snacks). I’ve always been an avid reader— ever since I was little and competed in Battle of the Books in elementary school— so it feels full circle to be back in a community of fellow book lovers. It’s such a cozy, creative outlet outside of work that fills my cup.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Krystle Marie Nickels, the creator behind Krystle Marie Blog, where I share cozy country cottage decorating inspiration, simple DIYs, and heartwarming seasonal ideas that make a house feel like home. What makes my brand special is its focus on blending timeless charm with approachable, everyday living— proving that you can create a beautiful, inviting home on any budget. I started my blog and Instagram after friends encouraged me to share my love for home styling, and it’s grown into a community of people who find joy in the little details— candles flickering, fresh flowers on the table, and spaces that tell a story. I’m currently a 2025 Brand Ambassador for Cottages & Bungalows magazine, working on my own home decor book, and continuing to inspire others to bring more warmth and personality into their homes.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
In the home decor and creative community, I’ve seen that what often breaks the bonds between people is comparison. It’s easy to get caught up in numbers, trends, or perfection, and lose sight of why we started— to create, connect, and inspire. What restores those bonds is authenticity and support— cheering one another on, sharing ideas openly, and celebrating each other’s wins. When we return to genuine connection and remember that there’s room for everyone at the table, community becomes stronger and more meaningful.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There was definitely a time I almost gave up. In the early days of content creation, I poured my heart into my work but felt like no one was really seeing it. The long hours, constant comparison, and self doubt can take a real toll when you’re creating from a place of passion. What kept me going was remembering why I started— to inspire others to find beauty in their everyday spaces and to create a life they love at home. The support from my community, even in small ways, reminded me that what I was sharing mattered, and that’s what helped me push through and keep creating.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Is the public version of you the real you?
I like to joke that I’m the “cozy hot mess express.” I’m just lil’ ol’ Krystle— I make mistakes, decorate things I end up not loving, and have more than a few failed DIYs under my belt. But I share all of that, because it’s me. The public version of me is the real me— just with a little more good lighting. I think showing the imperfect, behind the scenes moments keeps me humble, keeps me real, and reminds everyone that creating a beautiful home (and life) isn’t about perfection— it’s all about heart.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope when people tell my story, they say I was someone who always rooted for others— who clapped the loudest when it wasn’t my turn to shine. That I poured what I learned, through years of trial, error, and growth, into helping others believe in themselves and their dreams. I hope they remember the way I made them feel— that I was a light when the day felt dim, that I brought a smile to their face and a spark of inspiration to their heart. More than anything, I hope they say I reminded them that home— and life— isn’t about perfection, but about creating warmth, love, and meaning in every little corner.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.krystlemarieblog.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/krystlemarienickels
