Today we’d like to introduce you to Kayden Carey.
Hi Kayden, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
From a very young age, I knew I was meant to create. As a kid, I took dance lessons and collected tons of costumes from my recitals. My younger sister and I would throw mini fashion shows for our family, sneaking makeup and jewelry from our mom’s closet to style wild, over-the-top outfits. Dance was my first real love, but unfortunately, the program I was in shut down, I later irreparably injured my ankle, and I had to let go of that dream.
After that, I threw myself into anything and everything creative—trying to figure out what truly lit me up inside. I didn’t know exactly what I was looking for, but I knew I was meant to do something that allowed me to express myself. In middle school, I got really involved in student council and found myself constantly organizing events—fairs, performances, fundraisers, you name it. I earned the nickname “Renaissance Girl” because I did a bit of everything: costume design, event planning, singing, baking, painting, writing, creative direction, makeup, styling, graphic design, short film making, acting……… If someone needed something, everyone knew to come to Kayden.
I had so much creative energy, I didn’t know what to do with it all. Often I’d be awake late at night sketching designs, writing briefings, creating different pieces, editing or even just laying there dreaming about all that I wanted to do. I would always feel anxious unless my hands weren’t doing something creative.
After high school, I discovered cosplay and instantly fell in love. I entered a local cosplay contest, ended up winning, and started gaining attention online for my unique style and DIY projects on TikTok and Instagram. That led to me making custom pieces for my own outfits, and because my city was relatively small, people began to recognize me. I’d get approached by photographers and creators who wanted to work with me, especially for modeling.
At first, I was hesitant. I loved putting looks together and being in front of the camera, but calling myself a “model” didn’t feel right. I knew I had so much more to offer, I just wasn’t sure how to channel it all. In the early days I’d often reject shoot proposals. Eventually, I started taking modeling lessons with my sister, and that’s when I met Phillip Newton—my mentor and now close friend, who’s also the founder of Thee Haus. He opened the door for me into the worlds of art and fashion.
From there, I started attending pageants, art shows, and networking with other creatives. Right now, I’m focused on growing my brand and building something much bigger: Stargirl Studios—a production and art house dedicated to bringing together a diverse network of creatives. My dream is to provide a space with real resources and support for collaborative artistic projects across all kinds of mediums.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My journey hasn’t been easy, and one of the biggest challenges has been staying motivated and encouraged. The creative community here in The Bahamas is small and often centered around tourism. There’s not much space for artists whose work doesn’t fit the familiar “sun, sand, and sea” narrative—and for beginners, resources are scarce. At times, it’s hard not to feel invisible, like my work goes unnoticed simply because it doesn’t fit the mold.
Still, even in those moments of doubt, I’m deeply grateful for the people who’ve believed in my vision and given me space to grow.
Before I fully committed to creative direction, I worked a full-time job that left me emotionally and physically drained. I barely had the energy to create, and my mental health—especially my struggle with depression—was deteriorating. Around that same time, I was also in an abusive relationship with a partner who didn’t share or support my creative dreams. Beyond the emotional manipulation and control, there was a constant undermining of my passion. I was discouraged from working at my desk, ignored and treated poorly when I was creating, and given ultimatums about how many projects I could work on. I was told that what I was doing was pointless—a waste of time, energy, and resources. My interests and personal style were mocked, and over time, I felt myself shrinking. I was becoming a shell of who I was, pushed toward a version of myself that fit someone else’s idea of a “dutiful” partner, rather than the artist I knew I was meant to be.
The day after I left that man—and eventually that job—it felt like a light turned back on inside me. My creativity returned stronger than ever.
Now, I’m focused on fully immersing myself in the creative world. I’m learning, evolving, and constantly sharpening my skills. My current partner fully shares my creative vision and is aiming for the stars right alongside me. I may not have it all figured out yet, but I finally feel like I’m on the right path. And for the first time in a long time, I feel free.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I like to think of myself as a professional fashionista and a cross-functional creative—a true jack of all trades. I’m best known for my vibrant, bold style and my unwavering dedication to every project I take on. What really sets me apart is the fact that I’m not limited to just one lane. I have a knack for a wide range of skills, and I bring that versatility into everything I do.
When I collaborate with clients or other creatives, I don’t just show up to do one job—I look at the full picture. I tap into my skill set and network to make sure every element of the project comes together beautifully, right down to the smallest details.
At my core, I’m a stylist, couturier, model/muse, and creative director. But I also love exploring beyond that—whether it’s performance art, set design, editorial makeup, cake making, or digital and traditional art. I find joy in creating across different mediums, and I think that multidimensional approach is what gives my work its unique edge.
What matters most to you?
Community. That’s what matters most to me. Whether I’m working behind the scenes on set, sitting on the floor with my team at 3 a.m. adding the final touches to a gown, or stepping in with a last-minute idea to save a project from falling apart—I feel the deepest sense of connection in those moments.
Because the creative industries in The Bahamas are so small, collaboration isn’t just important—it’s essential. We rely on each other to bring visions to life, to lift each other up, and to make magic happen, especially under pressure. It’s those late nights, tight turnarounds, and collective problem-solving moments that make everything feel so meaningful.
There’s a special kind of energy that fills a room when creatives come together to support one another. That energy fuels me more than anything else. Creative collaboration is my love language, and I’m always looking for ways to build community and invite more people into the process.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
Dorien Rose, Chappell Whymns (CNWJ Photos), Elijah Higs (Saturnoak), Nathan Faustin(ShotbyFaust) Lifestyles Digital Media Group
Xavier Morris (Dazed Photography)
