I’d like you to meat Jean May Originals.
What region do you live in?
I live in the Midwest in Crestwood, IL, just outside of Chicago
What kind of items do you sell?
ALL of my items are 100% handmade by me and current offerings include fashion accessories such as jewelry and crocheted hats, scarves, belts, purses, headbands. There’s a small, but growing, home decor collection consisting of pillows and flower bouquets. Also available are cold process soap and photo cards using my very own photographs. Other product lines in the development and testing phase are hand-poured candles and hand-dipped incense, and I am currently testing recipes for a new line of edible treats!
How long have you been in business?
Since 2005
Who do you try to emulate in your business? Who inspires you?
There isn’t one person I try to emulate, but I am constantly inspired by other indie artisans who use their own two hands to create items with love, care, and integrity that you just can’t get from a machine made, mass produced item.
Do you work outside of the home?
I do currently work full time outside the home as a Legal Assistant at a downtown Chicago law firm.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? What are your goals with your business?
In 5 years I see myself taking the JMO brand globally, and expanding my business with many more product lines. The goal I’ve always had for my business is to make a quality line of handcrafted products with a name customers can trust.
What is your education as it pertains to your business?
I am completely self-taught! I have no formal training and always say that I’ve tapped into a talent I never really knew I had.
What is your favorite part of owning your own business?
Working with customers on custom orders is my number 1 favorite. I love when my customers convey their satisfaction in my products. Also, I’ve been having alot of fun with the experimentation and testing of new products. Oftentimes new design ideas will come out of nowhere, literally just popping into my head.
What do you do for fun?
I love to watch movies, read books, blog, surf the internet, listen to music, hang with the kids. I can have fun pretty much anywhere, any time, doing anything.
What would you say to another woman in business? How would you offer to help her?
I would say that when you have a strong belief in your business and your products, it shows to potential customers. If you’re dreaming of running your own business, go for it! Learn from your mistakes and enjoy your accomplishments. Be a proponent of customer service. Customers are deserving of your attention and respect.
www.jmayoriginals.com
www.jmayoriginals.blogspot.com
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