Meet Kristine Munro | Connection & Community Builder

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kristine Munro and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kristine, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
This is definitely an evolution story.

When I started my first business, my motivation was money and the need to create wealth and freedom for myself. During that time, I was “successful” from the outside looking in, but lacking fulfillment and purpose.

When I started The Illume Collective, I started it based on a need I felt was lacking in the market. I searched for a community of like-minded female entrepreneurs but didn’t find any with whom I connected. I also had a tug at my heart to gather women together to connect on a deeper level and develop meaningful relationships to find the support they need for their life and business.

I built this organization with passion and purpose as a motivator instead of money, and have never felt more fulfilled and aligned.

What should our readers know about your business?
Illume Collective, formerly known as Business Bosses who Brunch is a mentorship and networking community for female entrepreneurs to connect on a deeper level. To create a space for support, mentorship, and accountability in order to thrive in both life and business.

What’s different about our community, is we go beyond networking and focus on personal development, in addition to business education.

I am most proud of the transformations I have seen in the members, and always excited to see them continue to grow.

Although I have found fulfillment in the work I do now, it wasn’t an easy journey to get here. I started my career in Finance/Real Estate 25 years ago, doing what family and society wanted for me. For 20 of those years, I was constantly searching for that missing piece that would give me purpose. I am, however, grateful for my business and entrepreneurial background, as it has served me well and has brought me to where I am today.

I’ve learned that if you look within, you already know the answers to what your heart is calling you towards. Lean in, follow your intuition and go after your big dreams. It’s when you do the scary things outside your comfort zone, you can be sure that everything you ever wanted and more is on the other side.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
My favorite spot to take friends, whether it’s day or night, is Cherry Creek. There is great shopping, cute local boutiques to check out, and great dining. I just love the vibrant energy in that area!

Wash Park is my favorite local park to walk around and have a picnic in. Also in our neighborhood is one of our favorite restaurants for a fun vibe and great cocktails – Perdida!

If it’s the weekend, I love taking guests out to the mountains! Either Vail, or Breckenridge so ski, see the sights and walk around the village!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d love to shout out my husband, Jason. During my growth journey of trying to find my way after a 15-year career, I felt lost, searching for a new identity. I was heavily investing in myself in mentors and education and traveling for these mentorship programs. Jason supported my big vision financially, and emotionally, but also by holding down the fort with our two small children.

Website: www.businessbosseswhobrunch.com

Instagram: @kristinekmunro

Other: Depending on when the article is published, the company name and website will be changed to Illume-collective.com

Image Credits
feature photo: Hazel’s Roots Photography Other photos in order as they are uploaded: Erin Cassidy Photography Allie Jorde Creative MPR Photography Girl Squad Media