International Women's Day 2020: Interviewing Jade From JallenCreate

International Women’s Day is so important to me as a woman and feminist. Women have been taking gigantic steps since the beginning of the 19th century, right up to the present day to ensure women have equal opportunities and complete bodily autonomy. This International Women’s Day, I wanted to interview 3 businesswomen and find out how they feel navigating the business world as a woman.

My second interview is with Jade, an incredibly talented graphic designer and illustrator, and founder of small, independent business JallenCreate! Jade’s personality beams through in her work, often showcasing her brilliant sense of humour and wit. At the same time, her work is delicate and feminine. Minimalist. Bold. Jade’s art manages to chameleon itself into every complexity of what it means to be a woman, making her the perfect artist to interview for International Women’s Day.

International Women’s Day 2020: Jade’s Interview

Etsy | Instagram

Tell me about your business. Why did you start it?

My business, JallenCreate, is primarily an Etsy store that mainly sells greeting cards and some prints. The idea started because I have always loved receiving and giving cards. I just think you can write a perfect private message which is just between you and the receiver. After getting more than one of the same card for birthdays and Christmas I soon realised that cards tend to be quite generic so I wanted to create some that are different, funny, cheeky and a little bit naughty. All my cards are inspired by puns or private jokes which helps to bring that little bit of personalisation to them. I’m also very aware of the climate crisis so my cards are able to be recycled and the packaging can also be recycled or are degradable. I also do everything my self in my little apartment. I design, print, cut, fold and then package all by myself. I’ve chosen to do it this way as I enjoy every part of the process and want to be apart of it all!

Another part of my business is offering my service in the form of design which would be either for illustration or brand identity, for example, a logo! Basically, as long as I can create something I’m usually pretty happy!

What are the pros and cons of being a woman in business? Do you ever feel disadvantaged as a woman in business?

For me, personally, the main pros of being a woman in business are the option of pursuing my passion and something I love, the flexibility of being able to work around life and also the independence that comes with being a woman in business and more specifically owning a business.

The cons, again for me personally, is that for one I feel that I am underestimated because I am a woman which also means there’s is less respect. This was something I used to let get me down but now I don’t even give it a second thought! The other con is that it is hard work and it doesn’t happen overnight. I work alongside my own business, at its still in its early stages, so sometimes it can feel like you’re working two ft jobs without the benefit however it is very rewarding so I guess it could also be seen as a pro?

What advice would you give to other women who are wanting to start their own businesses?

My advice to other women, looking at starting their own business, is to make sure that they have a passion for what they’re about to embark on. No matter how much work is involved, or how hard it might seem at times, then it will always feel worth it and rewarding! Also, don’t expect to make the big bucks straight away! Or even any time soon! But don’t let this put you off, success isn’t an overnight thing!

Promote your favourite product!

My favourite product at the moment has to be my personalised portrait illustration prints. I originally created one as a gift with no intention of selling them as a product. However, I received so much love for it that I decided it had to go on to the Etsy. This picture is of the most recent one I’ve done. I’ve picked this one because the customer took the time to email and tell me how much they loved it! And that just makes me so happy. And that’s why I love this product because I get to create something that brings joy to someone else life and it’s just the most amazing feeling!

Click here to purchase your own personalised portrait illustration print!

How Are You Celebrating International Women’s Day?

I just want to close this by saying a HUGE thank you to Jade for participating. She answered all of my interview questions so thoroughly and honestly! Hopefully, you all love her cards and prints as much as I do and will head off straight away to support her by following the link to her Etsy and Instagram at the top of the post, just before the interview. Remember, Mother’s Day is coming up fast!

Happy International Women’s Day, everyone! Maybe someday soon, every day will be women’s day. ☺

The last interview post will be up THIS SATURDAY! The 14th of March. I aim to post this at 5pm as I would on a Sunday, so please keep your eyes peeled for that!

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