Jen, a.k.a. Jstephens13, quit her pharmacy day job in order to be able to stay at home with her new baby. It wasn’t until her husband quit his day job in order to go to nursing school that she began supporting the family through her Etsy shop. She claims to be the toughest boss she’s had to date and finds it hard to take a break, even while on vacation. Jen remains humble, advises not to set unrealistic goals, and swears her best marketing tool is a quality product.
How did you originally get into the business of making things?
It all started with the Bedazzler… remember that? Making jeans look super hot and hand-me-down jean jackets look even cooler. I was never the proud owner of a Bedazzler, but I think that made it all the more fascinating. From there, my mother and I dabbled in every craft form, from hair bows to puff paint. We were always creating! In college I started to sew seriously. I knew I would marry my husband the night I wore a hideous handmade-from-an-old-sweatshirt-one-sleeved top and he still wanted to dance with me.
The FIRST class I ever ditched was my junior year in college when I had to bind off a knitting project. My adviser was so worried (I had literally never missed a class) that he called my dorm room. Instead of being creeped out by the call I was happy to announce my new sweater and he was happy that I was alive.
Crafting isn’t just a hobby for me, it defines me. When identifying an era in my life, I always think in terms of what the current craft was.
When you first started selling on Etsy, did you have dreams or goals of eventually quitting your day job?
The deed had already been done. Two weeks after the birth of my son, I gave notice to the job “that I could never leave” and started to redefine myself as a mom instead of a career woman. What I didn’t know however was that my husband would soon leave his job to go back to school for nursing. I joked that when you asked me to interview for this column, it was ONLY because there was no column named “you and your husband quit your day jobs and one of you goes back to school full time.” I imagine that would be a mouthful for an article title, and we are probably the only family crazy enough to try and make it work.
Did you do anything to prepare ahead of time?
After years of gifting handmade, and people harping on me to start a store or a design company of my own, I was peer-pressured by my aunt to give Etsy a try. So, I would say to prepare, I fulfilled my own selfish need to create art and to give it to unsuspecting victims. That was great practice for actually starting my own shop. I also spent about $20 at the Salvation Army to outfit myself with a Singer sewing machine and a lifetime of vintage thread.
What are the most effective ways you have promoted and marketed your Etsy business? What’s your best marketing tip?
I am REALLY old fashioned! The best form of marketing is having a great quality product! I have always believed that what’s on the inside COUNTS THE MOST (in life and in sewing)… so my bags often have really beautiful liners and every detail is given attention! I did start a blog and personal web page and that seems to get plenty of action. I used the template provided through Weebly, I get the “free” business cards from VistaPrint, I purchased a LOVELY avatar and banner from Etsy shop ThompsonDesigns, and I buy all my wonderful labels from Etsy shop RememberWynn.
Walk us through your typical workday.
A typical day does not exist in my house. Every day does include the following however:
- 6 diapers
- 4 baby meals
- 2 dog meals
- 6 adult meals (when squeezed in)
- 3 walks around the neighborhood
- 1 sweep clean through the house
- 2 sewing sessions (if Axel naps)
- 3 runs of the Elmo in Grouchland movie
- 7 calls to my mother (for moral support)
- LOADS of new ideas that I have to write down before I forget
- DANCING with my boys EVERY NIGHT before bed
- LAUGHING till we fall asleep
- And a glass of wine when needed…
What do you enjoy most about not having a day job? Is there anything you miss?
My co-workers consist of Jahred (my husband) and Nana (my grandma). Not many people call their grandma a colleague. I am SOOO lucky to have a family that is with me on this hoop dream! Nana gives me constant ideas, constructive criticism and is a wiz with the Pellon interfacing!
My relationship with Jahred has always been project oriented and this keeps us on our toes and keeps us from worrying about the little things in life. Art is a positive force in our house and we are so happy to be raising our son in a family where we are home a lot and also get in TONS of experiential learning!
I really miss the pharmacy I worked for and our patients. Although people comment on a beautiful bag, or high quality stitching, it just isn’t the same as knowing you are taking excellent care of some one’s sweetheart. I learned a lot from the people of the community. The creativity I use now is fabulous, but my day job was much more intellectual. However, I have filled the void with reading, blogging and journaling. I also have more time to develop my clothesline techniques (darn bird poop) and playing in the dirt with Axel.
What’s the hardest part about running your own business?
I am the toughest boss I have ever had, hands down. It’s hard to just take a break. Most weekends the sewing machine comes with me out of town and this once computer-illiterate girl is now connected all the time.
If you could go back in time, what advice would you give yourself? What advice would you give someone else?
I would tell myself to do it all again. I am so glad I allowed myself to let go of the career side of my life and start living the intrinsic art part of my life. Being a starving artist isn’t that bad! I’m not recommending people just go quitting their day job on a whim, but if the situation presents itself, just be open to the opportunity.
- There are lots of concerns about being self-insured, paying your own taxes and stuff like that, but there are plenty of people you may already know who can help you with those things. I have learned, and I would advise others, to stop micro-managing your life and just breathe. It feels good to worry less and dream more.
- Don’t set unrealistic goals, know what you are good at and stay true to yourself. Handmade comes from the heart and it is created to fill a need. Be proud of yourself!
- Don’t spend a lot of money getting yourself off the ground. Start small…just like in 2nd grade math when you couldn’t use a calculator. You don’t need the big guns right away… start with the basics, you might fall in love with them and find higher-end technology is overrated.
What goals do you wish to accomplish in the coming year for your Etsy business?
I never expect to get rich quick, or “be discovered.” I just want to keep sewing on my $20 Salvation Army sewing machine and connect over fabric talk with Nana. One of the first typewriter key bracelets I made had the word “grateful.” I hope to live up to the definition of grateful. Jahred has 15 months of school left and then you can all expect a HUGE sale in my Etsy shop.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I really need to thank my family, and I have to say that if they would have bought me that Bedazzler years ago, I don’t think I would be where I am today. The “chase” of the art is always the best. Thanks for not always giving in, but making me reach further.
Thanks to Jen for sharing her story. Have your own questions to ask? Come on by and chat with her Wednesday, July 22 at 3 p.m. ET in Etsy’s Virtual Labs.
You can see some of Jen’s beautiful work in the related items. Check out previous Quit Your Day Job posts here.
213 comments
Sign in to add your ownBeadinBabe says:
SO sweet!! What a wonderful story, congrats on all of your success, and your beautiful little boy!
2 years ago
uncharted says:
great work - congrats!
2 years ago
baconsquarefarm says:
Congrats to you for quiting that day job, being with your darling lil boy and following your art-designer mode, way to go. Happy for you~! Continued success as well.....
2 years ago
BInspiredVintage says:
Thanks for the tips! That sounds almost like my typical day - except I definitely need to add the dancing before bed bit! Congrats on your success!!
2 years ago
blueberryshoes says:
so wonderful how you broke down how your day goes. its so encouraging to see a mother who finds a way to remain an artist and true to herself, even through the stress and fatigue. hugs and congrats to you!
2 years ago
aimeesarmoire says:
Congratulations! It's always nice to see a full-time crafting family who can make it work!!!
2 years ago
TheBrassHussy says:
I identify with this line. "Crafting isn't just a hobby for me, it defines me. "
2 years ago
BowWowBeds says:
Sounds just like our family! Your perspective really changes when you have a baby huh! We cut a lot of material things in order to help make it work....here we are 10 years later! Best wishes to you all! =)
2 years ago
LoellaMedina says:
Great article and sweet photos! Thanks for sharing your story Jen!
2 years ago
4TheSparrowsNest says:
What a beautiful story, Jen! I love it!
2 years ago
FashionTouch says:
I am very happy for you!!! Good luck!!!
2 years ago
workingforpeanuts says:
Congrats, Thanks, and Best wishes for continued success!
2 years ago
bungalowmarketplace says:
Inspiring and such a cute story! :)
2 years ago
purplelemondesigns says:
This is a wonderful edition! Very inspiring (and very sweet!).
2 years ago
LoellaMedina says:
Great article and sweet photos! Thanks for sharing your story Jen!
2 years ago
EJPcreations says:
So inspiring!!!! Thank you for sharing you wonderful story!
2 years ago
poppyswickedgarden says:
What a wonderful story! I can relate too, my latest vacation consisted of shopping at thrift and fabric stores for the most part! My family always asks when I'm going to take a "REAL" vacation!
2 years ago
HeartSpace says:
Yay!
2 years ago
PookieLovesOlives says:
What a great story!! I love youre work, congrats!
2 years ago
VixVintage says:
I love your work, thanks so much for sharing your story.
2 years ago
JAdamsDesigns says:
So awesome! Inspiring as always!
2 years ago
sherrytruitt says:
It's just great how everything works out, isn't it? Continued success to you and your lovely little family.
2 years ago
PookieandPierre says:
So incredibly sweet! Thank you for sharing and I wish you and your family much success in the future!
2 years ago
SiamSquare says:
Such an encouraging and imspiring story. With my husband being laid-off I thought about getting a day job but I think I will hang on and stick to Etsy to see if I can do it, too. Thank you for sharing.
2 years ago
humblebea says:
Another inspiring story, thank you for sharing!
2 years ago
emilane says:
Great Great Great story! Very inspirational! We wish you the best! Oh and thanks for all the good tips!
2 years ago
monkeyandsquirrel says:
so wonderful and realistic! thanks for sharing :)
2 years ago
EnfinLaVoila says:
What an optimistic and inspiring story! Congrats on your cute little boy!
2 years ago
MoonLightSally says:
Great story, I loved it! I couldn't resist buying destash lace from her though!!
2 years ago
IceCreamCandy says:
what a cute baby:) great story!!
2 years ago
beautifulbridget says:
Beautiful work and great story!
2 years ago
odiliafu says:
Congrats!! Very inspiring story!
2 years ago
1AEON says:
yess!! another great success story!!!
2 years ago
lovelygifts says:
Great story! Congrats!
2 years ago
dimplekids says:
this is so great! congrats friend!
2 years ago
greenpeadolls says:
lol love your list of typical work day.. YOU GO!!!
2 years ago
CarolineCreates says:
With a husband in school as well, this was very inspiring!
2 years ago
jenharruff says:
Your stuff is really beautiful! Congratulations!
2 years ago
BPyarns says:
Thanks so much for sharing/ Jen, your family is beautiful!
2 years ago
breadandroses2 says:
Truly inspiring. Congrats to you and your supportive family!
2 years ago
nativevermont says:
Great story! Love your work!
2 years ago
Morado says:
Wonderful wonderful story! I aspire to be my own boss one day :o) and i hope that day comes soon http://twitter.com/MoradoShop
2 years ago
sagittariusgallery says:
Hehe, great article!
2 years ago
BurnoutBazaar says:
An inspiration to us all. Well done Jen and good luck in future endeavours.
2 years ago
karalmava says:
Thanks for the inspiration!
2 years ago
HendersonArt says:
What an incredible story! I appreciate all your pointers, and take this as inspiration. Thanks.
2 years ago
eightXeight says:
Lovely items! Great luck to you!
2 years ago
BelleMereBelleFille says:
Very inspirational.
2 years ago
OnTheRound says:
Yeah for jstephens13! ps we watch a lot of Elmo goes to grouchland too... Cheers!
2 years ago
LisaFerinDesigns says:
Jen is certainly an inspiration! Great article.
2 years ago
staceylyndesigns says:
Really enjoyed this read. Nice, down to earth advice like staying true to yourself. Love all your cute creations!
2 years ago
clothpaperstitches says:
Love this story!
2 years ago
postroadvintage says:
You sound so lovely and down to earth! Congratulations and keep up the great work!
2 years ago
LaLah says:
Love this article! So happy for you that you made your shop work so wonderfully for you! I'm sure your hsuband was pretty happy too!!! thanks for sharing!!!!
2 years ago
LaLah says:
oh and by the way I LOVE YOUR AVATAR!!! adorable and cool
2 years ago
isabellasvintage says:
A wonderful story ~ a big congrats for taking that big step. I hope you and your family continue to have a happy and healthy life together.
2 years ago
TickledPinkKnits says:
This is, hands down, the most enjoyable "quit your day job" interview I've read in this series. So well-written, engaging, down-to-earth, and an inspiration in more ways than one. Thanks for sharing your story! :D
2 years ago
GreenLeafPress says:
What a good column! I love your products... I wish I had read this sooner.... I did exactly the same but didn't set my etsy shop until now ... she is 5 mths and a handful!!
2 years ago
brun says:
yes I dream of it.
2 years ago
MinceCo says:
yes, a quality product is your best marketing tool..well said!
2 years ago
holoholo says:
thanks for the inspiration! you give me hope that one day I can be a fulltime etsy seller! keep up the lovely work.
2 years ago
Linelle10 says:
...some day !!
2 years ago
ikabags says:
Thanks for sharing lovely post , very very nice ...Good luck all handmade lovers !
2 years ago
lilworkerb says:
Love this story! Taking care of kids AND making time for your craft can be tough, even though I have no children of my own, I run a daycare 10 hours a day, and the fact that you can squeeze all that in is very inspiring.
2 years ago
aBreathofFrenchair says:
Great story and sweet pictures!
2 years ago
beccamari says:
Thanks so much for sharing!
2 years ago
SimonandRuby says:
thank you for your wonderful story! I am in the process of leaving my job "that I could never leave." While I am will still have a day job, I am one step closer to my dream. Thanks for continuing to inspire me.
2 years ago
VintageTwenty says:
I love your advice to others, "to stop micro-managing your life and just breathe."
2 years ago
sandali says:
AWESOME article -- I Love to hear all these inspiring stories -- getting me 1 step closer to that BIG step -- happy days ;)
2 years ago
christyscrafts says:
You are very talented and have a beautiful family. My best wishes to you.
2 years ago
atomicblue says:
That sounds a bit like my own day in the life...but without diaper changing! Thankfully, they do learn how to go potty at about 2 1/2 ;)
2 years ago
JustLiv says:
You're like a great philosopher of our time. My fav quote, "I have learned, and I would advise others, to stop micro-managing your life and just breathe. It feels good to worry less and dream more." Classic!
2 years ago
Chaiwat15 says:
Very cute!!! Please visit "www.chaiwat15.etsy.com" that have a beautiful crytal bag for everyone.
2 years ago
poppychicdesigns says:
Long live the creativity born from the "Bedazzler"...back in the day it inspired me too!
2 years ago
IsabellaKaitlyn says:
very inspiring, yet realistic. i very much enjoyed this article!!
2 years ago
lizzibelle says:
what a sweet story. I love 'Elmo in Grouchland" I've had to watch it so many times!
2 years ago
Jenifersfamilyjewels says:
Another fabulously inspirational article! Thank you marymary for sharing with us!!
2 years ago
gretchenmist says:
lovely story ~ am so pleased to read that a family situation like this is working so well ~ yay for you :)
2 years ago
tree2 says:
I love your story, thank you for sharing!
2 years ago
LoveBlossomTrue says:
great story and lovely designs!
2 years ago
littleANGELboutique says:
Very encouraging article. You have a beautiful supportive family.
2 years ago
bazketmakr says:
wow, what a great story. So inspirational! Congratulations on your wonderful family and attitude. I am so happy it is all working out for you.
2 years ago
BrazanDesign says:
Thank you so much for sharing your story. Much continued success to you and your family!
2 years ago
trunkofprettys says:
Thanks for sharing your story! bravo to the dedazzler....and i wish you the best for you and your sweet family :-)
2 years ago
apiecebydenise says:
Such a sweet story! Thanks for sharing
2 years ago
metalicious says:
What a heartwarming story! I love that you get to work with your Grandma and dance with your guys every day. Thank you for sharing your story!
2 years ago
lemonadehandmade says:
this is an inspirational story- gives me hope that I can actually make a living doing what I love so much! Thanks for the boost, Jen- and mad props for the lovely family and the lovely product.
2 years ago
sakizome says:
A lovely story - hug your baby for me!
2 years ago
sunbasilgarden says:
I'm such a fan of JStephens and I keep coming back for more of your eye catching, quality designs. It was a great treat to read about you and your family and your sucessful business. Love your philosophy too! Best wishes and keep all those OOAK's coming our way. I need more bags!
2 years ago
OwlandMouse says:
This is a great success story! We totally identify with the fact that if you make great work, people will help you with the things you aren't sure about. Thanks for sharing your story.
2 years ago
AuntCrafty says:
I love to hear from Moms who have the courage to stay home with the kids. It makes me feel more normal. I tried to go back to work as well and just couldn't do it. It takes a lot of sacrifice, but I do love the time I get to spend with my kids. Congrats on your success.
2 years ago
twinkletoes27 says:
This is so inspiring! I don't have a kid or a husband back in school, but I'd love to quit my day job! Thanks for the great advice.
2 years ago
ellainaboutique says:
I love your story!!! My family was "crazy enough" to try it too... I quit my day job to do Etsy full time just before I had my son and my husband is currently going back to school for a Sculpture degree! We are squeeking by on my Etsy sales and like you, we are loving staying at home and raising our son :) Congrats on your success!!!
2 years ago
iLuvKOSHi says:
The Bedazzler! Who knew... Cute story. Great inspiration.
2 years ago
steinschmuckdesign says:
What a beautiful story! And incurage! Thank you!
2 years ago
zeropumpkin says:
all the stuff so cute & sweet :)
2 years ago
evihan says:
great article:-)thank you for sharing with etsians:-)
2 years ago
lostintheforest says:
Excellent story and so well told! You have such a sweet way of putting everything into perspective :)
2 years ago
LianaDim says:
Very inspiring! I wish you the best!
2 years ago
Stargazer02 says:
GREAT Stuff!
2 years ago
LittleWrenPottery says:
I love these quit your day job stories, so inspiring - keep them coming!
2 years ago
mishimoudesigns says:
What an eloquent article, reflecting such a grounded, humble and inspiring individual. This article, and the huge list of comments left, give me hope that a high standards in a product and a realistic business focus/high ethics are a surefire way to personal and professional success! Excellent commentary and well written!
2 years ago
momochas says:
Very sweet and inspiring story. Thank you so much for sharing and congrats on your success!!
2 years ago
katieanneclothing says:
Very encouraging story! Congrats to you! Cheers!
2 years ago
eclecticmoi says:
Really Lovely article :) thanks so much for sharing ~ Your shop is lovely!!!
2 years ago
CastleBeadBiz says:
Such a sweet story! Congrats to you and your family!
2 years ago
nomadcraftsetc says:
Good for you! And Hooray for the Salvation Army! This is great and a hopeful reminder to all of us who want to follow our dreams! :)
2 years ago
LoveForEarth says:
What a great store and great article! I remember my bedazzler days, that quite defines an era when we could all spot each other from a satellite view :)Congratulations on your success!!
2 years ago
jenglo says:
This story is so inspiring...CONGRATULATIONS to you and yours, Jen, for making it work so well! :)
2 years ago
HannahPhelps says:
Great article! Thanks for the inspiration!
2 years ago
mobina1122 says:
In these times, it can sometimes seem irresponsible to an outsider to quit your "sure thing" job to do something that you are passionate about, let alone having both members of a couple do it. But I don't think so. What you have done for yourselves will reward you over and over again and will serve as an excellent example for your son to do what brings him joy. Congratulations and best of luck with your shop!
2 years ago
beachhouseblues says:
Great story that so many can relate to!
2 years ago
blackrockdesign says:
I'd love to see myself doing what you are doing someday. At this point I can't imagine dropping the day job, but your story is very inspirational! Thanks for sharing.
2 years ago
thestapeliacompany says:
Wonderful work. She makes all that not-so-attractive 70s fabric into things of beauty. Nice.
2 years ago
moonovermaize says:
Fabulous story! Congratulations on all of your success!
2 years ago
thebestvintage says:
I think the heart you put into your product really come through. I wish you great sales!
2 years ago
aprilfoss says:
love to see that you are form MN. Congrats on all your success!
2 years ago
maryellenscrafts says:
Enjoyed this!!! Congrats!!! YEAH MN GAL!!!!! Good luck to you and your husband!!!
2 years ago
LizsDivineCreations says:
I enjoyed reading aboout your ETSY story. Thankyou so much for the encouagement and the hope that even if I am a slow starter there is still the hope of a brighter future.
2 years ago
DalkullanJewelry says:
That's great that you get to spend so much time with your family, from your Nana to your little boy. Love that you use a 20$ sewing machine instead of a computerized latest and greatest model. Wish you every success and happiness in the future.
2 years ago
GeorginaKay says:
gorgeous products and wonderful story
2 years ago
ShabbyChicHome says:
Great Article. Lovely Story. Congratulations on your success!
2 years ago
jswank says:
Thanks so much for writing. You are doing what I want to be doing whenever I have kids. :) Actually, you are doing what I want to be doing now! LOL. I love reading success stories like this. I hope you are encouraged by your feedback - you are an inspiration to all of us sellers. Especially the new ones like me!
2 years ago
jennkristen says:
Wow...incredibly moving and inspirational! You have given me hope--I want to be able to quit my day job and get a shop up and running. Your son is absolutely gorgeous, by the way. :-) All the best!
2 years ago
girltuesdayjewelry says:
I loved reading this! Thank you and best wishes for continued success.
2 years ago
kenjiku says:
I love this story! Sounds like me to a tee! Even a 15 mointh old.
2 years ago
detailinminiature says:
loved your story, very sweet!
2 years ago
peaceandmagic says:
I love your advice about "starting small" keeping it basic. Thanks for the inspiration. I'm off to photograph some new work!
2 years ago
slumptown says:
Great story. Thanks for the inspiration. What a cute family, best of luck in your future success.
2 years ago
YuriMiku says:
You're so encouraging! Keep up the good work! I like the fact that you started small with your $20 Salvation Army sewing machine! That's awesome! I hope I can attain the same goals.
2 years ago
YuriMiku says:
http://www.yurimiku.etsy.com
2 years ago
GRACEnDIGNITYColl says:
That is a great and inspiring story!! You get to do what you love, be at home with your kids and bring in money to support your family. Wow!!I wish you all the best!!
2 years ago
babook says:
Sooooooooo quality shop with the sweet family : )
2 years ago
voleurdebijoux says:
Great story...truly inspiring! Congrats on your success, Jen! :)
2 years ago
lizjewelry says:
I'm jealous in so many ways!
2 years ago
tldgrainwear says:
Great story, congratulations Jen for all your hardwork! Cheers everybody!
2 years ago
PhineasandLou says:
I LOVE this story! This is so inspring especially since I have a little one and husband in school. Congrats on making it work, it's so worth it :)
2 years ago
SimpleTraditions says:
I love your typical workday! I also LOVE your banner!!!Thanks for inspirational story!
2 years ago
LittleMissDressUp says:
Excellent interview! Such a down-to-earth Gal and one after my own heart! Best of luck to the 3 of you!
2 years ago
gooddaystudio says:
I am just starting up myself, thanks for the inspiring story!
2 years ago
michellearnold says:
What a great story! Best of luck to you and your family! nice bags :)
2 years ago
JeweledAmbrosia says:
great article! we are a young college student family too, so we definately know the crunch!
2 years ago
cbartist says:
Jen, way to go! Keep up the quality sewing!
2 years ago
Everythingelse2 says:
Jen, I love your story and motto! It's true higher technology is very overated. What a wonderful reason to quit your job....you'll never regret it!
2 years ago
kristend12 says:
Congratulations, what a great story! I'm inspired!
2 years ago
capitalcitycrafts says:
Great story- you are so fortunate! live long and prosper!
2 years ago
polkadotsbycathy says:
Thank you for sharing your story. Very inspirational and I hope you will be blessed as you chose to be a stay at home mom. God Bless.
2 years ago
thepurplefinch says:
Lovely story, so inspired
2 years ago
Ebruk says:
lovely story.
2 years ago
dafnadagan says:
grate artical! love your Bracelets:)
2 years ago
MonjioCreations says:
Wonderful story! So inspirational!!
2 years ago
KendraRenee says:
Thanks for sharing! You are so inspiring!
2 years ago
MyPatternedMind says:
Cute stuff!!!
2 years ago
BelieveInHappy says:
THANK YOU! Thank you for sharing your story. How wonderful to finally hear a story like mine! I miss being a medic/firefighter but it holds little flame to my hillarious son and beautiful grandmother! Thank you for embracing your deeper meaning and being grateful for that! Much love!
2 years ago
BizzieLizzie says:
YAYYYY for quitting your day job!! I'm right there with ya! AND, a fellow bag lady! Yes, it can be done! Your story is sweet as ever! Best of luck to you! It appears as if a bit of luck (lotsa talent) is already on your side! Woot!
2 years ago
gwbdesign says:
Thank you for sharing your wonderful story. It is encouraging to see people making it with their ETSY shops. I wish you and your family the best.
2 years ago
contempojewels says:
Thanks for the story... inspiring!
2 years ago
erinsuniqueboutique says:
Thank you for sharing your story. As always congrats on making it work. Its great being able to follow your dream and live the life you want.
2 years ago
Darkmina says:
Very inspiring:) Needed to read this, especially on a day like today when things seem a bit bleak. Thanks and much luck my dear!
2 years ago
bluerthanblue says:
Thanks so much for the encouragement!
2 years ago
sunnysmile says:
Your story inspires me. I hope that one day, I may be able to Quit my Job!! Be a stayhome Mom and Work from home. Thank you for sharing your story.
2 years ago
BeadDelirium says:
Wonderful story.. continued good luck with your family and Etsy Shop.
2 years ago
clubviv says:
so sweet!!!!! Thanks for sharing the story. http://www.clubviv.etsy.com
2 years ago
rockinmommasjewels says:
I love your dedication to family and creating . I am inspired yet again by another Mother, who had to leave her day job and is able to make something of her talent. I am trying to launch my little shop off into success.As I know it is possible because I read inspirational stories like yours daily. I am even more pumped about making my new passion of jewelry making Rock!
2 years ago
mireillemanuel says:
love your story... wish i could quit my job too! haha! maybe next year...
2 years ago
Tina669 says:
great work - congrats!
2 years ago
Iammie says:
Nice shop! http://iammie.etsy.com
2 years ago
FreshlySkweezed says:
What a grounded gal you are! I agree that not always having a "Bedazzler" (insert item of desire) makes you think/work harder and takes you to new directions! Bravo!
2 years ago
CelloRaisen says:
I love your bags! I am working toward being a "stay-at-home-mom-with-my-own-etsy-business" and reading these stories get me through the day here at "work". Thanks for being an inspiration.
2 years ago
wristcandycreations says:
What a sweet story! Congrats and best wishes for continued success!
2 years ago
K9KreationsbyKara says:
As a new etsy seller, I found your spotlight very inspring. I hope one day my canine treats will carry me out of employment! :) I love your products!
2 years ago
Jmp7302 says:
This story is so incredibly inspiring. I always feel that no matter what, it is possible to do what makes you happy in life. Good luck in everything and congrats on your success!
2 years ago
lovahandmade says:
Very awesome shop and inspirational story!!! I have to say I really like that North Face jacket as well!
2 years ago
clclcl says:
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2 years ago
johnnlizzieruedy says:
We are so proud of our Niece, Nephew, and of course Axel! You are truly a sweetheart! Happy Birthday Jen! Hope it is as wonderful as you are! Love, John and Lizzie
2 years ago
psitsinthedetails says:
congratulations on your success!!!! :-)
2 years ago
GatheringSplendor says:
Thanks for sharing. I am inspired.
2 years ago
AWEshop says:
Thanks for sharing your story. It's always inspiring to hear people's stories, it's like getting a little peep behind the scenes!
2 years ago
BayBeeGee says:
Aaaaaaaaaamazing! I love your bags, your bracelets, everything, your story! You are an inspiration to me! The store I managed closed its doors, so I am now a stay at home mom (which I LOVE), and my husband starts school in 2 weeks. Ahhh! Thanks for the tips!
2 years ago
bazketmakr says:
What a great article! I am inspired by her vision and presence of mind to do what she wants to do when it is important. I, too, quit my day job. I am also HONORED and EXCITED to be her blog giveaway winner! Don't miss the blog! http://www.jlstephenscouture.com/b-l-o-g.html
2 years ago
theweddingcontessa says:
Great ideas! Love your suggestions and working from home is such a great way to go! Way to follow your dreams and make them come true! Best of all- thanks for sharing ways for others to become successful too!
2 years ago
AzitasSurprises says:
wonderful article! so inspiring.
2 years ago
sugarandcandy says:
Bar none, the most inspirational article for me, in the Quit your Day Job series. I absolutely relate to you Jen, and love your outlook on life and work. You are living my dream, and I hope to have the confidence to just go for it - and soon! Thanks for making my day :)
2 years ago
LHogan says:
Really wonderful! Thank you for sharing your story!
2 years ago
harvestmoonbyhand says:
Very inspiring!
2 years ago
ChellaBellaDesigns says:
I love this story. I too quit my day job before knowing what I would do to make ends meet. I crafted for gifts, not for a living. Rescued Greyhounds came into my life and I opened an in-home boarding facility just for them. Greyt Escape Accessories (www.greytescape.etsy.com) and Chella Bella Designs both evolved from my love to sew, create and make everything beautiful, tied into the local rescue by donating a portion of our proceeds each month. Love Greyhounds, Love Sewing, Love Helping...thanks Etsy! These stories are fabulous!
2 years ago
christinadesigns says:
do what you love and love what you do...what a gift do be able to do that. what a wonderful way to spend the day creating beautiful things and enjoying your beautiful baby. good luck from a newcomer peace christina
2 years ago
SublimeMood says:
these few lines hit home for me too " I have learned, and I would advise others, to stop micro-managing your life and just breathe. It feels good to worry less and dream more. Don't set unrealistic goals, know what you are good at and stay true to yourself."
2 years ago
kidgiddy says:
I hope for even half of your success. Congrats!!
2 years ago