I was raised in a small town in South Georgia. After high school, I joined the Army and served as a watercraft operator, where I was assigned to the LT-805 Winfield Scott.
Following my military service, I relocated to Greenville, South Carolina, and eventually settled in Mauldin, where I purchased a home. I’m a proud parent of two teenagers.
One of the things I love most about the Upstate of South Carolina is its perfect location—nestled between the mountains and the beach. I enjoy surfing at Folly Beach and hiking the scenic trails along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
I also have a service dog named Romeo, a Labrador and Pointer mix I rescued from the Greenville Humane Society.
Today, I run my own business, Krischen Painting, Fence and Deck, LLC, specializing in fence construction, interior painting, and staining fences and decks. We proudly serve the Upstate Greenville area with dependable and affordable services tailored to your home improvement needs. We use expert craftmanship to create beautiful outdoor spaces that enhance your property.
Q: Tell us about yourself, including a little bit about where you grew up, your education, your family, interests, passions, and career?
I have a degree in Developmental Psychology with a minor in Parenting and Child Development. I previously worked for a nonprofit organization in Greenville that supports veterans and first responders. While I found that work meaningful, I’ve always valued the freedom to set my own schedule and income, along with the satisfaction of working with my hands outdoors. That led me to start my own fence-building business. My father introduced me to woodworking and fence construction when I was a child, and over the years, I’ve developed a strong and extensive background in the trade.
I have a degree in Developmental Psychology with a minor in Parenting and Child Development. I previously worked for a nonprofit organization in Greenville that supports veterans and first responders. While I found that work meaningful, I’ve always valued the freedom to set my own schedule and income, along with the satisfaction of working with my hands outdoors. That led me to start my own fence-building business. My father introduced me to woodworking and fence construction when I was a child, and over the years, I’ve developed a strong and extensive background in the trade.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in The Golden Strip?
I moved to Upstate South Carolina about 13 years ago, and just over the past two years, I’ve made Mauldin my home.
I moved to Upstate South Carolina about 13 years ago, and just over the past two years, I’ve made Mauldin my home.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I’m pretty transparent, so if there’s anything interesting about me, my friends and family have probably already heard it all.
I’m pretty transparent, so if there’s anything interesting about me, my friends and family have probably already heard it all.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in The Golden Strip?
One of the most interesting people I’ve met in the Golden Strip is the man who stands on the corner near Mauldin High and the Mauldin Open Air Market off of Corn Road, waving and dancing to everyone who passes by—always wearing an Asian conical hat. He brings a smile to people’s faces and brightens their day with his energy and positivity. He’s truly a beloved local character—and in many ways, he represents the heart and spirit of Mauldin.
One of the most interesting people I’ve met in the Golden Strip is the man who stands on the corner near Mauldin High and the Mauldin Open Air Market off of Corn Road, waving and dancing to everyone who passes by—always wearing an Asian conical hat. He brings a smile to people’s faces and brightens their day with his energy and positivity. He’s truly a beloved local character—and in many ways, he represents the heart and spirit of Mauldin.
Q: What current / former local business makes you the most nostalgic about The Golden Strip?
The Mauldin Open Air Market feels like a nostalgic reminder of every classic small-town gathering spot. I love how it brings together people from all walks of life in the community. The staff is friendly, and despite Mauldin’s rapid growth alongside the rest of Greenville, the market maintains that warm, small-town atmosphere.
The Mauldin Open Air Market feels like a nostalgic reminder of every classic small-town gathering spot. I love how it brings together people from all walks of life in the community. The staff is friendly, and despite Mauldin’s rapid growth alongside the rest of Greenville, the market maintains that warm, small-town atmosphere.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about The Golden Strip?
I was raised in a small town in South Georgia, the kind of place that felt a lot like Mayberry—where everyone knew each other. I have fond memories of sitting on the front porch with my family after supper as neighbors strolled by, often stopping in the yard to chat. We were always either hosting someone for a meal or visiting someone else’s home. Family and community were deeply rooted in my upbringing. Of all the neighborhoods I’ve lived in across the Upstate, Mauldin stands out as the one that most reminds me of that nostalgic sense of connection—a place with a strong, welcoming community.
I was raised in a small town in South Georgia, the kind of place that felt a lot like Mayberry—where everyone knew each other. I have fond memories of sitting on the front porch with my family after supper as neighbors strolled by, often stopping in the yard to chat. We were always either hosting someone for a meal or visiting someone else’s home. Family and community were deeply rooted in my upbringing. Of all the neighborhoods I’ve lived in across the Upstate, Mauldin stands out as the one that most reminds me of that nostalgic sense of connection—a place with a strong, welcoming community.
Q: With so much growth in our area, there are always new places popping up. Tell us about the a “new to you” place that you recently tried.
The first time I tried Bohemian Bull was during a surf trip to Folly Beach. It quickly became a ritual for me to stop there every time I visited, especially to enjoy their delicious “That’s My Jam” burger. So, when one opened on Pelham Road, I was thrilled. Even better, a location popped up in Mauldin, just about a mile from my home. I love the outdoor dining experience, and that burger is absolutely to die for.
Q: What 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME or NEIGHBOR?
Warmth and belonging, Friendly faces, Shared moments.
Q: If you had a free day with no plans, what would you do? Or where can we find you on the weekends?
I work a lot, so when I finally have a free day with no plans, I love being outside—especially near water. Whether it’s the pool, the beach, or a cool, quiet lake, that’s where I feel most at peace. I enjoy finding quiet spaces, relaxing in a hammock, and just being barefoot in the grass. It’s the simple things that help me recharge.
Q: If you were cast into a major motion picture and had your choice of anyone to be your co-star, who would you choose?
I was raised Mennonite, and we didn’t have a television in the house. I wasn’t allowed to watch TV growing up, so even now, I often feel a little out of the loop when people talk about their favorite shows or movie stars. It’s just a world I never really grew up with.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
I’ve had the chance to do a lot of exciting things in my life and have seen some truly beautiful places around the world. So when it comes to a bucket list, mine is pretty simple now—I’d love to buy a piece of land a little off the grid and start my own homestead. That’s how I picture retirement: peaceful, self-sufficient, and rooted in nature.
Q: What advice would you give to a crowd of people?
If I could offer one piece of advice to a group of people, it would be this: treat others with kindness and respect. We’re all here for just a short time—our lives are like a vapor. Cherish the ones you hold dear, and don’t hold back from saying the things you’re afraid to say. Most importantly, extend grace and mercy, even to those who may not deserve it. We’re all just trying to make it through this life, hoping to create meaningful memories along the way. As we grow older and gain a little wisdom, we start to realize that some of the things we once thought were so important really aren’t. Don’t get caught up in comparisons or in chasing what someone else has. Instead, focus on creating a life that holds meaning for you—a life that leaves space for peace, purpose, and connection. Be genuine. Be true. We only get one life to live—make it count by living it with heart.
Q: Who would you like to see nominated for this project, The Faces of The Golden Strip?
My friend Tasha Forshee recently started her own bookkeeping business, and I couldn’t be more proud of her. Sometimes I don’t think she fully sees the positivity she brings into the world or recognizes the strength she already carries. Tasha has the potential to be a true pillar in our community, just like she is for her family. She’s not only a dedicated professional—she’s also an incredible mom. I believe in her, and I hope she always remembers just how much she’s capable of.
The first time I tried Bohemian Bull was during a surf trip to Folly Beach. It quickly became a ritual for me to stop there every time I visited, especially to enjoy their delicious “That’s My Jam” burger. So, when one opened on Pelham Road, I was thrilled. Even better, a location popped up in Mauldin, just about a mile from my home. I love the outdoor dining experience, and that burger is absolutely to die for.
Q: What 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME or NEIGHBOR?
Warmth and belonging, Friendly faces, Shared moments.
Q: If you had a free day with no plans, what would you do? Or where can we find you on the weekends?
I work a lot, so when I finally have a free day with no plans, I love being outside—especially near water. Whether it’s the pool, the beach, or a cool, quiet lake, that’s where I feel most at peace. I enjoy finding quiet spaces, relaxing in a hammock, and just being barefoot in the grass. It’s the simple things that help me recharge.
Q: If you were cast into a major motion picture and had your choice of anyone to be your co-star, who would you choose?
I was raised Mennonite, and we didn’t have a television in the house. I wasn’t allowed to watch TV growing up, so even now, I often feel a little out of the loop when people talk about their favorite shows or movie stars. It’s just a world I never really grew up with.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
I’ve had the chance to do a lot of exciting things in my life and have seen some truly beautiful places around the world. So when it comes to a bucket list, mine is pretty simple now—I’d love to buy a piece of land a little off the grid and start my own homestead. That’s how I picture retirement: peaceful, self-sufficient, and rooted in nature.
Q: What advice would you give to a crowd of people?
If I could offer one piece of advice to a group of people, it would be this: treat others with kindness and respect. We’re all here for just a short time—our lives are like a vapor. Cherish the ones you hold dear, and don’t hold back from saying the things you’re afraid to say. Most importantly, extend grace and mercy, even to those who may not deserve it. We’re all just trying to make it through this life, hoping to create meaningful memories along the way. As we grow older and gain a little wisdom, we start to realize that some of the things we once thought were so important really aren’t. Don’t get caught up in comparisons or in chasing what someone else has. Instead, focus on creating a life that holds meaning for you—a life that leaves space for peace, purpose, and connection. Be genuine. Be true. We only get one life to live—make it count by living it with heart.
Q: Who would you like to see nominated for this project, The Faces of The Golden Strip?
My friend Tasha Forshee recently started her own bookkeeping business, and I couldn’t be more proud of her. Sometimes I don’t think she fully sees the positivity she brings into the world or recognizes the strength she already carries. Tasha has the potential to be a true pillar in our community, just like she is for her family. She’s not only a dedicated professional—she’s also an incredible mom. I believe in her, and I hope she always remembers just how much she’s capable of.
