Jazz and Charm was created from deep within my heart. A year or so ago, I was talking to my daughter about how I wish I could do more to support our local rescue. As with most rescues, they were always in need of donations and foster homes and their second-hand store was struggling. It was also during that conversation we talked about her love of wreaths and how she needed some new ones for her front door. Something clicked.
As an entrepreneur who had already built a highly successful educational technology company, I knew I could easily channel some of my energy towards helping the rescue become more successful, while surprising my daughter as well.
I immediately began my journey. After long days at work, I found myself consumed with learning all I could about wreath making. Thank God for Google and YouTube Videos.
Believing in the Ready-Fire-Aim approach, I took my first step and bought a couple of wire frames, some mesh and ribbon and went to work. Yes, a few mistakes were made and corrected, because after all it was a learning process but, in the end, I had created what my critics told me was a very sellable wreath. I immediately donated it and helped the rescue spread the word that there was something new and interesting available. Imagine my surprise when it actually sold! I was hooked!
Halloween, Fall, Thanksgiving, Christmas and Valentine’s Day wreaths quickly followed. I had become the obsessed wreath maker. Family and friends now had a wreath for practically every occasion. And the second-hand store was bringing in a little money. I saw every critique as a learning experience and before long, more and more compliments were rolling in.
Fast forward to a few months ago. My family (Ok, mostly my daughter!) finally convinced me to open my own Etsy Shop. With my usual fervor, I started to learn how to create a successful Etsy and online presence. I had found my niche, so I did my research, read everything I could and regularly visited Etsy’s best-selling shops. It was amazing how many of those shop owners were so willing to share their knowledge, expertise and experiences. It wasn’t a competition, it was a community and even being the new kid on the block, I felt I belonged.
It hasn’t been easy, and it has definitely taken a whole lot of hard work, but Jazz and Charm is up and running.
I will be eternally grateful for all the support and encouragement I have received – from Damon Oates telling me to “Just Do It” to my family and friends who offered their heartfelt critiques, while always being there for me! My labor of love has come to fruition!