Discover How Alice Kitrell Founded Outgift And Revolutionized Gift-Giving with Personal Experiences

Ever felt the frustration of not knowing what gift to get someone special? I’ve been there, and that’s exactly why I founded Outgift. We created an intelligent gift recommendation platform that harnesses the power of artificial intelligence and a carefully curated product portfolio to help you find the perfect gift in under a minute. Our mission is twofold: we want to help consumers discover unique and thoughtful gifts tailored to the recipient’s profile, while also connecting retailers with the right audience just in time for important occasions.

The inspiration for Outgift struck me during a personal experience a few years ago. While preparing for a three-month work trip to Switzerland, my husband surprised me with a beautifully wrapped birthday gift. I couldn’t wait to open it, only to find a pair of nail clippers and filers inside! While he argued they were the best on the market, I realized he could really use some help finding better gifts. As someone who often generates gift ideas for friends and family, I saw a gap in the market and knew I could do something about it. And that’s how Outgift was born!

How did you come up with your business idea? What inspired you? 

A few years ago, I had to travel to Switzerland for work for three months and before I left, my husband bought me a birthday gift in a beautifully wrapped box and I couldn't be more excited to open it.  My excitement was short-lived when I opened it to find a pair of nail clippers and filers (which my husband enthusiastically claimed to be the best on the market and reasoned would come in handy when I wouldn't be able to find a manicurist in a foreign country).  It hit me then that he could use help in finding better gifts and I just happened to be the resident go-to gift idea generator for our friends and family - viola, Outgift was born.  In his defense, I still have and use the manicure set and it really is best-in-class.

What were you doing before this?  How did it prepare you for the entrepreneurial life? 

Before starting Outgift, I spent the better half of a decade working in consulting, investment banking and private equity investment.  All of my roles required me to manage deals, projects, budgets, deadlines and teams which prepared me well for managing a startup.  Working in a generally cut-throat environment also gave me the thick skin I need to power through rejection and learn from my mistakes without letting it get me down. 

How do you generate new ideas to stay relevant on the market? Is it important to innovate in your space? 

I generate new ideas and stay relevant in the market primarily through conversations and building strong relationships. Engaging with others—whether it’s customers, industry peers, or even friends—opens up a wealth of perspectives that can spark innovative ideas. I genuinely enjoy discussing Outgift's mission and goals, as these discussions often lead to valuable insights and fresh perspectives that I might not have considered otherwise.

Additionally, I make it a point to listen closely to unsolicited feedback, as it frequently offers a glimpse into what people are truly looking for in a gift. I can't emphasize enough how many incredible products I've come across simply by chatting with people about their recent favorites or what they wish existed. This real-time pulse on consumer preferences is invaluable, allowing me to adapt our offerings to meet current demands effectively.

Moreover, I believe that staying innovative is crucial in our space. The gifting industry is constantly evolving, with new trends and consumer needs emerging regularly. By actively seeking input from various sources, I can ensure that Outgift not only keeps pace with these changes but also anticipates future trends. This proactive approach not only enhances our product selection but also strengthens our brand’s relevance in a competitive marketplace.

What are some pros and cons of having (or not having) entrepreneurial parents?  

Having entrepreneurial parents can profoundly shape one's approach to business and risk-taking. In my case, growing up in a family of entrepreneurs in the restaurant and real estate sectors provided me with a unique vantage point on the complexities and nuances of running a business. Their ongoing reminders about the difficulties inherent in entrepreneurship served not merely as cautionary tales but as a form of mental conditioning. This upbringing equipped me with a realistic understanding of the challenges I would face, fostering resilience and a strong work ethic that are essential for navigating the entrepreneurial landscape.

On one hand, this familial background instilled in me a sense of determination and the belief that I could forge my own path, despite their attempts to steer me toward a more traditional corporate career. Their insights illuminated the unpredictability of entrepreneurship, making me acutely aware of the need for adaptability and strategic thinking. However, this perspective also carries the weight of expectations. While I possess a keen understanding of the entrepreneurial journey, there is an inherent pressure to succeed that can be daunting.

Conversely, not having entrepreneurial parents might lead to a different set of advantages. Individuals from non-entrepreneurial backgrounds may approach business with a fresh perspective, unencumbered by preconceived notions about failure or risk. They might be more inclined to embrace uncertainty, viewing it as an opportunity for innovation rather than a potential pitfall. Ultimately, whether one comes from a lineage of entrepreneurs or not, the journey of starting a business is profoundly personal and influenced by a myriad of factors, including individual drive, ambition, and the ability to learn from both successes and setbacks. In my case, while I acknowledge the complexities of my upbringing, I remain undeterred in my pursuit of building my own company, firmly believing that the apple doesn't fall far from the tree, but it can also grow in new and unexpected directions.

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