So today we're going to visit Jes, an interior designer by trade and crafter at heart, owner of Etsy Store "DearJes". I stumbled onto Jes's store as I was trying to find Easter related artifacts to write about since Easter is just a little over 3 weeks away....and I just literally gasped at how beautiful her clay eggs were, perfect for easter and a host of other uses. I quickly decided to contact her and see if she could answer a few questions for me. She graciously agreed. But first, take a look at a few of the goodies in her store:
You can see more at DearJes on Etsy.
Here's my interview with Jes:
BB. What inspired you to start your business?
J: I have always been artistic. I have been making gifts for my friends, and decorative items for my home for as long as I can remember. When I found Etsy I knew that it was the perfect forum for my new little venture.
BB: Did you have any formal training?
J: My degree is from Virginia Tech in Interior Design. It's actually a really great foundation for me. Although my focus in school was much more focused on commercial design, and interior architecture (as opposed to "decorating") I carry so many principles of design and color with me. I apply them daily.
BB: What's your typical day like?
J: I have two sweet rowdy little boys (Cole 6 and Mac 3). So, most of my day is spent caring for/entertaining them. Also, cooking, cleaning, breaking up fights... It's all very glamorous. My Dearjes work is always secondary to my primary "job" as a stay at home Mom. My Dearjes duties come in small bites throughout the day when I can fit them in. My Husband Troy is my photographer... so when he is home, we have "photo shoots". My assistant/friend, Claire does all of my packing and shipping. She does an outstanding job.
BB: Where do you get your inspirations from?
J:I am inspired directly from nature. I like my nests to appear as if they were discovered in a tree, created by a very smart and literate bird. I also am inspired greatly by the change of seasons. I change the accessories in my home seasonally, and my shop evolves as well.
BB: How do you come up with the color/design themes?
J: Many of my designs are a tribute to the creativity of the brides I have worked with. We work together to find the prefect cake topper, or ring bearers nest for their wedding. Often that item becomes a regular Dearjes offering. I am a total color-snob. I cringe when a bride asks for fushia eggs. I will make them of course ...though it be through gritted teeth. I just think of the poor diseased bird that laid them. I love colors that appear in nature.
BB: What's your target market?
J: I'd guess that 80% of our business is bridal. To be honest I was leery to enter this market. I was fearful that I'd be dealing with lots of Bridezillas.... but the truth is that the brides I have had the privilege to work with have been wonderful. Maybe it's the Etsy culture? I feel so lucky to do what I do. It's such joy filled work. I get to play a tiny role in a monumental day in the lives of my customers. I feel so fortunate.
BB: Anything else you'd want my readers to know about you and or your business?
J: I take so much pride in my work. I would never ship something that I would not display in my own home, or would have used at my wedding. Dearjes is not a wealth driven venture. It's has been very successful, but at the core I want a creative outlet that inspires me. It's not about putting food on the table. I never want to be out of reach for a bride. We have a very attainable price-point and I am proud of that. I love being a part of the handmade community for this reason. Since opening Dearjes last year, I have become so much more aware of how products are made. It's been a wonderful adventure.
I hope you have all enjoyed my chat with Jes and her wonderful creations! Have a lovely day.
These are adorable! I love the idea of a personalized nest of eggs. So cute.
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