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Vendor Spotlight: Cat Coven

Cat Coven @ Broad & Jones

Founded in 2013, Cat Coven began as a means of cleaning up a workspace while Kjersti was studying at the School of Visual Art. Over time, her Etsy shop evolved into what Cat Coven is today. A brand synonymous with the occult, feminism, cats and tattoos. With style, all her own, Cat Coven continues to offer magical pieces of art that are easily worn or can be featured in your home. Can we just take a moment to embrace the pillows? YES because they are everything.

Q: First things first, let’s get the basics. Where are you from? Zodiac sign? Least favorite hairstyle you’ve had?

I grew up in Long Island, but now I live in Brooklyn. I’m a Capricorn on the cusp of Sagittarius. Probably when I was a little kid and my mom gave me a bowl cut.

Q: How do you prefer to read? A hardcover book on your lap, audiobook or reading with a tablet?

I like holding an actual book, but for the convenience of multitasking, I usually do audiobooks.

Q: One thing you can’t live without.

My cat(s)

Q: Last thing you binge-watched on Netflix.

Currently re-binging Arrested Development.

Q: What’s the one piece of advice for anyone wanting to build their own brand you wish you were told in the beginning?

Learn the business side, not just the art side – take classes. Learn what taxes are all about. Get an accountant ASAP. Learn about how to collect sales tax properly.

Q: Every business owner has that moment that gives them the warm and fuzzies and completely reminds them what their purpose is. What was yours?

It’s mostly those little moments when you get an email or a note attached to an order about how inspired or connected to my artwork someone is, that I made them feel something.

Q: Favorite Movie? Food? Curse word? 90’s Jam?

The Harry Potter movie series! Also Moulin Rouge. Food? I think I just love all food a lot. All the food. Fuck is a very satisfying word to say. Always Blink 182.

Q: If you could bring back one canceled TV show back to the airwaves, what would it be?

Pushing Daisies!

Q: Would you say you are more of a Broad or a Jones?

Style wise, Broad, but my heart is truly with Jones.

Q: Let’s say it’s the end of civilization as we know it, and you know you’re going to be stranded on an island for the rest of your life. What three albums would you bring with you?

Yggdrasil by Wardruna, Alright, Still by Lily Allen and  - this is embarrassing, but I will admit it - Let Go by Avril Lavigne for sentimental reasons.

Q: What was the one character trait about yourself that was the hardest, but most empowering to embrace?

My anxiety and perfectionism go together well (in a negative way most of the time). I get easily overwhelmed and anxious about little details. I want everything to go smoothly and for all my customers to be happy 100% of the time but obviously that is an impossible goal. I’m still learning to only worry over things that are worth worrying over and embrace life’s imperfections. Once you do everything goes smoother on its own anyway.

September 30, 2016 by Jessica Evans
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Vendor Spotlight: Sable & Gray

Kristin @ Sable & Gray

After graduating college with a degree in Architecture, Kristin learned that the career she envisioned for herself wasn't likely in a field focusing more on technology than the arts. Determined to not live her life in front of a computer, and focus on her love of watercolors and stationery....Sable & Gray was born. Best known for stunning custom wedding invitations, they also have a line of beautiful greeting cards. Kristin's designs are charming, whimsical and I can't get enough. 

First things first, let’s get the basics. Where are you from? Zodiac sign? Least favorite hairstyle you’ve had?
I grew up in Traverse City, Michigan, aka "The Cherry Capital", and was always encouraged to play outside and do creative things. My sister and I would entertain ourselves painting rocks, playing in the creek, and building tree forts (she actually just finished her second Children's book about this, aptly named, "Secret Tree Fort". It's amazing.) We also always had tons of animals... everything from pet chickens, a brown snake we found in the garden, to my horse, Sable and my cat, Gray. 

I moved to North Carolina after I graduated from High School to attend the NCSU School of Architecture, where I earned a double bachelor degree in Architecture and Design, fell in love with my future husband, Ryan, and gave myself the worst haircut ever (attempting to look like Sienna Miller in "Alfie").  I also fell in love with the Carolinas, and after graduating from NCSU Ryan and I tried out a few different cities including Charleston, SC and Asheville, NC. But I got very homesick and convinced Ryan to move back to my home town about a year and 1/2 ago. But I miss North Carolina very much... especially when it's still snowing here in April. My husband and I found out we were expecting the day before we made the move, which was pretty insane timing (... let's do ALL the changes), and now we have the cutest baby girl named Hayes. So now my days are filled with the balancing act of being a "momtreprenuer". 

How do you prefer to read? A hardcover book on your lap, audiobook or reading with a tablet?
I'm still a sucker for an old-school hardcover book, especially if it's Harry Potter. 

One thing you can’t live without.
I can't live without my piano. Singing and playing the piano are my biggest stress relievers and are sometimes the only way for me to unwind. When I moved away to school I couldn't exactly bring my piano with me, and would have to walk a couple miles to the music building and hope that one of their practice rooms would be available so I could play. For Christmas that year my parents surprised me and got a keyboard for me to bring back to my dorm room, and it is still to this day one of the most meaningful gifts I've ever received. I'm sure I was the most annoying person on the hall when I would be playing the same song over and over again at midnight (sorry, guys!), but it really was the best. I think it's probably the only reason I survived Architecture school. 

Last thing you binge-watched on Netflix. 
Oh gosh this is definitely a guilty pleasure of mine. Ryan and I are currently binge-watching The Walking Dead, and before that it was Orange Is The New Black. It should be illegal for it to autoplay the next episode. Every single time I'm like, "well, it's already started..." 

What’s the one piece of advice for anyone wanting to build their own brand you wish you were told in the beginning?
It's okay to not have it all figured out. I am such a perfectionist that I never would have started my business if my husband hadn't given me so much encouragement because I wanted to make sure that everything was PERFECT. The perfect logo, perfect website, perfect packaging, perfect products...But I've learned that a brand is an ever-changing, ever-growing, living thing. Since I started my business almost 3 years ago, I've redesigned my logo, revamped my website, reworked my products, and fine-tuned my mission and my brand. Letting go of things that didn't end up working for your brand isn't failing, it just means that you're listening to your ideal customer. You can take that information and hone in on what works and make your brand even stronger. 

Every business owner has that moment that gives them the warm and fuzzies and completely reminds them what their purpose is. What was yours?
Over the summer I did an artist market and it was a million degrees outside and I was feeling pretty miserable. But then I had a girl come up to me and say, "It's you!". I guess she had been following my Instagram account for over a year and was so excited to meet me in person and see my products first hand. It was such an amazing feeling to know that my voice was being heard. You spend so much time putting yourself out there and it can start to feel like you're yelling into the void, but then something like that happens and it makes you realize that you are making an impact and that people really care about the things that you're creating and investing your time in. 

Favorite movie? Food? Curse word? 90's jam? 
I think I might be able to recite "The Princess Bride" by heart. 
I'm a sucker for any kind of Mexican food. 
As terrible as it is, there's something about the F-word that is so satisfying. 
"You Oughta Know" will forever and always be my favorite angry girl song. 

If you could bring back one canceled TV show back to the air waves, what would it be?
Probably Clarissa Explains It All. 

Would you say you are more of a Broad or a Jones?
Well, my dad is a die-hard David Bowie fan and would sing "Oh You Pretty Things" to wake us up in the morning, and my mom is like Martha Stewart with more personality and less jail time, so I think that makes me a pretty solid Jones. 

Let’s say it’s the end of civilization as we know it, and you know you’re going to be stranded on an island for the rest of your life. What three albums would you bring with you?
This is such a hard questions. My pandora stations have everything from Billie Holiday, to Radiohead, to Opera... I think I'd probably have to take Amy Winehouse's "Back to Black" album because it never gets old, Adele's "21" album because I would definitely be feeling sad and lonely at some point, and The Ya Ya Ya's "Fever To Tell" album for when I'm like "F it". 

What was the one character trait about yourself that was the hardest, but most empowering to embrace?
Definitely my perfectionism. It can be crippling. And it makes me be a total control freak. But I hired an intern over the summer and made myself delegate tasks, and it was so nice to let go a bit, but still have a really high standard of quality. 

September 23, 2016 by Jessica Evans
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Vendor Spotlight: Ænon's

Aenon's

 

Founded in 2014, Queenie sought out to create a brand that was minimal, versatile and honest. Mission accomplished. Ænon's is known for blending science and the art of craftsmanship into natural products. Not only are the products incredible, but the packaging is swoon worthy. And can we just talk about Queenie's flawless sense of style? If you haven't had a chance to try their quick fix masks and scrubs - you're missing out. I'm never without them. 

 


Q: First things first, let’s get the basics. Where are you from? Zodiac sign? Least favorite
hairstyle you’ve had?
I’m originally from New York City but I’m currently living in Los Angeles.
Virgo.
A mullet. Yup, you read that right. It was an accident.

Q: How do you prefer to read? A hardcover book on your lap, audiobook or reading with a tablet?
Kindle app on my iPad. I like to read several books at once so it’s easier to have everything in one place.

Q: You're at your local coffee shop, and before you even open your mouth to order - the barista already started making it. What’s your usual?
Large cold brew! 

Q: Last thing you binge-watched on Netflix.
I just finished season 2 of Reign. I like to have background noise when I’m in the studio so I go through TV series pretty quickly.

Q: What’s the one piece of advice for anyone wanting to build their own brand you wish you were told in the beginning?
I’ve gotten a lot of great advice from people but I also realized that what worked for them might not work for me. It’s cliché but trust your instinct. You’ll be pulled in a million different directions and it’s important to internalize ideas and advice and see how or if it can apply to your business. 

Q: Every business owner has that moment that gives them the warm and fuzzies and completely reminds them what their purpose is. What was yours?
When I got my first repeat customer and review!

Q: Favorite Movie? Food? Curse word? 90’s Jam?
A Chinese Odyssey
Tacos
F*@k
Jamiroquai / Virtual Insanity

Q: If you could bring back one canceled TV show back to the air waves, what would it be?
It’s not my favorite show of all times but I wish Hello Ladies had more than just one season.

Q: Would you say you are more of a Broad or a Jones?
A bit of both!

Q: Let’s say it’s the end of civilization as we know it, and you know you’re going to be stranded on an island for the rest of your life. What three albums would you bring with you?
Alice in Chains / Dirt
Fiona Apple / When the Pawn
MGMT / Oracular Spectacular

I think that’s a good mix?

Q: What was the one character trait about yourself that was the hardest, but most empowering to embrace?
I’m stubborn but I know what I want and where I stand. 

September 16, 2016 by Jessica Evans
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Vendor Spotlight: The Genesis

The Genesis Bradford is the queen when it comes to merging together beauty and nature in the form of gorgeous, unique jewelry. The Genesis was founded to simply fill a need. Lauralie couldn't find jewelry that suited her tastes, so she taught herself the skill of jewelry making and voila! Six years in, and she's created a brand recognized for its quality and adventurous designs. As a person who has bought quite a few pieces of her work for my personal collection, I can confirm that when you wear The Genesis - people notice. We also have the same taste in music, which is just another reason why I adore her. 

 

Q: First things first, let’s get the basics. Where are you from? Zodiac sign? Least favorite hairstyle you’ve had?
I'm born and raised in Clearwater, FL. I'm a cancer. And when I was 14, I cut my ponytail off which was the biggest mistake I've ever made in life.

Q: How do you prefer to read? A hardcover book on your lap, audiobook or reading with a tablet? 
A physical book. I get too distracted with an e-book or audiobook. It takes me out of it.

Q: You're at your local coffee shop, and before you even open your mouth to order - the barista already started making it. What’s your usual?
I actually get different things every time! But I love earl gray tea with soy milk and nitro cold brew!

Q: Last thing you binge-watched on Netflix.
I watch Netflix all day while I make jewelry. The past two days I watched the two seasons of Don't Trust the B in Apartment 23. RIP. 

Q: What’s the one piece of advice for anyone wanting to build their own brand you wish you were told in the beginning? 
I wish someone had explained the logistics of running a business to me. I'm a creator And it's really hard for me to run the logistical side of The Genesis.

Q: Every business owner has that moment that gives them the warm and fuzzies and completely reminds them what their purpose is. What was yours? 
There was this one time that I was at the mall buying something and when I handed the cashier my debit card, she recognized my name and asked me if I was The Genesis. I was gushing for about a week after that.

Q: Favorite Movie? Food? Curse word? 90’s Jam?
My favorite movie is Jurassic Park. I've just loved it my whole life. Definitely tacos. I think the f word carries a great weight to it. Whether used in a sexual, mean, or funny way. The majority of the music I listen to is from the late 90s and early 2000's. I'm stuck in my childhood. Destiny's Child always makes me happy.

Q: If you could bring back one canceled TV show back to the airwaves, what would it be? 
This one is a hard one. I want all of my shows. Maybe Pushing Daisies or Freaks and Geeks?

Q: Would you say you are more of a Broad or a Jones?
I'm gonna say Broad.

Q: Let’s say it’s the end of civilization as we know it, and you know you’re going to be stranded on an island for the rest of your life. What three albums would you bring with you? 
This is going to be embarrassing. But definitely Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge by My Chemical Romance. Is a Real Boy by Say Anything. And Lemonade from Beyonce.

Q: What was the one character trait about yourself that was the hardest, but most empowering to embrace?
I'm an incredibly extroverted and selfish and stubborn person. And I'm working on finding the balance between improving and accepting those things.

September 10, 2016 by Jessica Evans
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Vendor Spotlight: Taylor Street Soap Co.




When it comes to handcrafting luxurious bar soap, body scrubs and linen sprays - Rachel at Taylor Street Soap Co. is the maker you want. Rachel launched her brand, out of need. To find a bar of soap that wouldn't irritate and itch her skin (something I can completely appreciate!). With chemistry on her side, she created her recipe for cold pressed artisanal soaps, and they are perfect. Now she's added other amazing products with stunning packaging. 

Q: First things first, let’s get the basics. Where are you from? Zodiac sign? Least favorite hairstyle you’ve had?
I’m Rachel, and I live in Chicago (real Chicago, not the suburbs)
Cancer
My awkward attempt to tease my bangs in the 1990s. It doesn’t work on thin, fine hair.

Q: How do you prefer to read? A hardcover book on your lap, audiobook or reading with a tablet?
I love to hold an actual book, turn the pages and hand it to a friend to share. But for convenience, I do love my Kindle and iPad reading apps.

Q: One thing you can’t live without.
Intelligentsia coffee—iced in the summer and hot in the winter. I'm a zombie without coffee.

Q: Last thing you binge-watched on Netflix.
The Get Down

Q: What’s the one piece of advice for anyone wanting to build their own brand you wish you were told in the beginning?
Be wise about how you spend money and learn to differentiate between necessary purchases and items that are nice to have. Find creative solutions until you make money!

Q: Every business owner has that moment that gives them the warm and fuzzies and completely reminds them what their purpose is. What was yours?
For me, it's the small customer interactions when I sell in person. I've had customers pull one of my lip butters from their pocket and tell me how they take it everywhere and love it. I'm still excited every time I get an order from repeat customers. It's so humbling to know that people love what I've created and want to give me their hard earned money.

Q: Favorite Movie? Food? Curse word? 90’s Jam?
Sixteen Candles
Peanut butter (preferably with chocolate)
“Shit a brick.”
Let’s take it old school -- Darude “Sandstorm.”

Q: If you could bring back one canceled TV show back to the air waves, what would it be?
The original Dark Shadows. I’ve been watching old episodes on YouTube, and I’m obsessed.

Q: Would you say you are more of a Broad or a Jones?
I’m a Jones. I believe life should come complete with glitter and glam rock.

Q: Let’s say it’s the end of civilization as we know it, and you know you’re going to be stranded on an island for the rest of your life. What three albums would you bring with you?
Beatles “Abbey Road.”
Rolling Stones “Let It Bleed.”
The National “High Violet.”

Q: What was the one character trait about yourself that was the hardest, but most empowering to embrace?
I had to learn to fail, which is very hard for a perfectionist. I suspect that fear is what keeps most people from ever attempting to start their own business. I had a prior business in letterpress printing, and it wasn’t my forte and I never really had much success with it. I learned from that experience and found something I really loved with soapmaking. But taking that leap the second time was more difficult.

September 02, 2016 by Jessica Evans
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Vendor Spotlight: Craft Boner

I'm fairly sure that Kiwi of Craft Boner may be a mind reader. There have been too many times that I find myself at CVS looking for the perfect snarky card, or fun little trinket and have come up empty handed. In 2012, she was tired of the same ole' boring Hallmark cards and resolved to make something sarcastic, and fun for those with an actual sense of humor.  Since then she's expanded the brand by creating wall art, flair, and drinkware. Thank God for all of this because I would haven't my favorite keychain or coffee mug without Craft Boner. 

Q: First things first, let’s get the basics. Where are you from? Zodiac sign? The least favorite hairstyle you’ve had?

I was born in New Zealand, raised in the mountains of Colorado and lived in a whole bunch of places after that before settling back down in Denver.

I’m a Gemini, and I’m totally the person who nerds out about horoscopes and tarot cards and all of that kind of thing even though I don’t put too much stock in it. But, really, what a Gemini answer to that question, amiright?

The worst hairstyle I ever had was when I was about 2 or 3, and my mom gave me a baby mullet - I’m sure I didn’t realize it at the time but looking back, man, it’s truly terrible.

Q: How do you prefer to read? A hardcover book on your lap, audiobook or reading with a tablet?

God, I wish I had more time to read! But, ideally, I’m reading a paperback in a hammock on a deck somewhere with a thunderstorm in the background. In reality, it’s more like a paperback hastily thrown in my bag that I can read a few pages of here or there when I’m out and about. It’s nearly always paperback, though. I like the idea of audiobooks and e-books, but they tend to make me a bit sleepy. And hardcover books are way too frou-frou for my tastes.

Q: One thing you can’t live without.

Cheeseburgers! Stuff to draw with! Dry shampoo! Wi-fi!

OK, the list could go on forever but in reality, I’m pretty good at adapting to different situations. Unless I don’t have my phone - then I’d be like a lost puppy. So, yeah, my phone is the most realistic answer.

Q: Last thing you binge-watched on Netflix.

The last thing I binge-watched was every damn episode of the ten seasons of Bones. My current binge is Supernatural. They’re both terrible/amazing but exactly what I need as background noise because you never need to pay that much attention to them to get the general idea. The last show I binged and paid attention to is Stranger Things because it’s literally mesmerizing and I really wanted to soak in every single second (though I’ve watched it twice more since then).

Q: What’s the one piece of advice for anyone wanting to build their own brand you wish you were told in the beginning?

Fuck up a lot!

OK, maybe not a lot, but when I first started out I took forever to actually dive in because I thought everything had to be perfect in order for me to put it out into the world. Now I try things, and I either fuck up, or I don’t, and then I go from there. I never, ever totally know what I’m doing, and I’ve come to realize that nearly all of my mistakes actually made me a stronger business owner. The other biggie I’d tell people is that they should be prepared to be the most patient they’ve ever been in their entire lives. People think that if you make something awesome, then you’re going to become an overnight success - it just doesn’t happen like that. The people who are the huge “successes” (and I put that in air quotes because success is different for everyone) are the people who have been busting their ass for months or years or however long without any accolades or recognition because they truly believe in what they’re doing, and they’re too stubborn to quit. Nobody makes it happen all at once so if you really, really want it you’ll stick with it. And if not you’ll quit and move onto something else. Either way is fine - just know that there isn’t just one path out there.

Q: Every business owner has that moment that gives them the warm and fuzzies and completely reminds them what their purpose is. What was yours?

Oh man, I get that moment a bunch when I get to make people laugh when they see my stuff IRL! But I guess one of the times was when a guy used one of my cards as part of his proposal for his girlfriend - that nearly made my heart burst.

Q: Favorite Movie? Food? Curse word? 90’s Jam?

“To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything, Love Julie Newmar” - I can literally quote the entire movie. Curse words are in constant flux but my favorite at the moment is asshat. I don’t know if I can pick just one 90s jam - I’m pretty much blasting Spice Girls Pandora for 90% of every day. 

Q: If you could bring back one canceled TV show back to the air waves, what would it be?

Again, I don’t think I can pick one! Freaks and Geeks if I had a time machine and could just blackmail the studio into not canceling it in the first place so everyone would still be the same age. Otherwise maybe Firefly, Wonderfalls or Dead Like Me, but I feel like if they were resurrected now, they wouldn’t be nearly as good as they were.

Q: Would you say you are more of a Broad or a Jones?

Definitely Jones. I will rock florals and pastel until the day I die.

Q: Let’s say it’s the end of civilization as we know it, and you know you’re going to be stranded on an island for the rest of your life. What three albums would you bring with you?

Man, I don’t even get to take a Spotify playlist - that’s rough. Uhhhhh, I’m not great at knowing albums inside and out (which is a constant disappointment to my boyfriend), but I’d probs bring some Beatles, some Dolly Parton, and some Steve Miller Band.

Q: What was the one character trait about yourself that was the hardest, but most empowering to embrace?

Being an extreme weirdo. When I was younger (like, seriously up until college) I used to mind every single thing that came out of my mouth because I wanted nothing more than to fit in and be seen as normal. I’m not totally sure when it clicked that being a freak is way more fun, but there’s been no turning back since. I’ve abandoned doing/saying/being things that are conventional just so I can be conventional. I do the things that my weirdo little heart desires and it very rarely steers me wrong. I also realized that by being true to myself and my personality that I’ve attracted the very best gang of weirdos into my life, and that’s truly fucking incredible when it happens because I know that they love me because all of my quirks and faults and not in spite of them. Now I let my freak flag fly high because I know that there are way better things to spend energy on than censoring myself.

August 26, 2016 by Jessica Evans
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Vendor Spotlight: Fresh Pastry Stand





Deva America of Fresh Pastry Strand has cornered the market on beautiful tea towels, and all natural soy candles. Her shop speaks volumes for how much pride she takes in every product she offers. Founded in 2012 offering vintage pastry stands, the brand has grown so much in a mere four years and now offers totes, aprons, bracelets, magnets, tea towels and candles.  

Q: First things first, let’s get the basics. Where are you from? Zodiac sign? The least favorite hairstyle you’ve had?

I am a Jersey Girl gone south. I moved to Florida in 2007 and have been in Gainesville since 2013. While I have a lot of NJ nostalgia and miss my folks and friends, Gainesville is definitely home. My favorite things about this small town are the locally made tempeh, Ben Hill Griffin Stadium and a 9 month summer. I am a Capricorn, true and true. I would definitely describe myself as hair-experimentation-positive so I’ll say my least favorite hairstyle was the interim of growing out my Bic razor shaved head a couple of years back. Lots of awkward moments--like the time I attended a cancer fundraiser and people were giving me the fist bumps and telling me to keep on fighting. 

Q: How do you prefer to read? A hardcover book on your lap, audiobook or reading with a tablet?

Reading! I love a great wi-fi connection and do most and all my reading online, either on my laptop or phone. I adore reading and as a kid I read every cereal box and women's magazine my mom had in the house. I did go through a strong "book" period from my mid-teens to early twenties but, ever since becoming a mom in 2003, have reverted back to shorter doses of prose. The New York Times, NPR, Buzzfeed, Jezebel and The Wall Street Journal are my daily routine. Also, I thoroughly read my Facebook feed multiple times a day. I see it as modern folklore. So basically, I am all about reading brief news articles, memes and quizzes that deduce my age from my favorite Olivia Benson hairstyle.

Q: One thing you can’t live without.

Vegan Mayo. I'm gross like that.

Q: Last thing you binge-watched on Netflix.

Difficult People.

Q: What’s the one piece of advice for anyone wanting to build their own brand you wish you were told in the beginning?

Be careful who you take advice from. There is a lot of general business advice out there that is probably applicable to all or most but in the end, you have to know your own product and your own market. Over the years I have taken advice from friends who are successful at their own businesses. Their advice didn't always turn out to be the best course of action for me to follow. In the end, I realized they are experts in their own fields and I need to become an expert in mine. Starting your own brand really is like having a baby. You will get tons of well-intentioned, unsolicited advice from people who are emphatically passionate that you are doing it wrong and they have a better way. But ultimately, this is your brand, your baby. You are responsible for it's health and welfare. 

Q: Every business owner has that moment that gives them the warm and fuzzies and completely reminds them what their purpose is. What was yours?

Recently, I was set up at a craft show in Atlanta and a woman saw my "Bitch" tea towel and was super psyched. She bought it to wear as a head wrap. That's the kind of thing that keeps me excited about my work. Customers who add their own creativity to my products. They use the tea towels as kitchen curtains, mounted and framed as wall art, even to cover chair cushions. But this was the first time someone was going to wear it on her head!

Q: Favorite Movie? Food? Curse word? 90’s Jam?

Favorite movie is Rocky IV. Favorite food is the steamed dumplings at Yuan Fu Vegetarian in Rockville, Maryland. Fave curse word is definitely fuck and all it's variations. Favorite 90's jam is Two Princes by Spin Doctors. There is no shame in that.

Q: If you could bring back one canceled TV show back to the airwaves, what would it be?

Benson.

Q: Would you say you are more of a Broad or a Jones?

#TeamJesus #TeamNorah

Q: Let’s say it’s the end of civilization as we know it, and you know you’re going to be stranded on an island for the rest of your life. What three albums would you bring with you?

This is a really tough one for me. I am more of a Spotify Radio/Greatest Hits kind of person. Assuming this is a tropical island, I am going to spend all of my time drinking coconut water and working out. Because when the Destiny's Child rescue helicopter comes to get me, I'm gonna have abs like Kelly Rowland. So basically, I need tracks I can move to and, essentially, shout profanities while I shadowbox like Chad le Clos, but the first place version. Kanye's The College Dropout, Eminem's The Marshall Mathers LP and Nicki Minaj's Roman Reloaded. I dunno. Maybe I will have enough time to burn some cd's before the apocalypse. If so, I'm adding Kendrick Lamar, Ludacris, Biggie, Rihanna, Weezy, Dolly Parton, R.E.M. and Depeche Mode. Basically, if the end of the world doesn't have Spotify, I need not live. 

Q: What was the one character trait about yourself that was the hardest, but most empowering to embrace? 

I used to live with regret about choices I’ve made. But then I realized I could make different choices.

 

August 19, 2016 by Jessica Evans
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Vendor Spotlight: Miss Violet Lace

In less than six years, Miss Violet Lace has created a brand known for their high-quality wigs, as well as luscious skin and body products. Krista, the face of the brand, can be seen modeling wigs on their Instagram account. This small business is a family affair with Krista's mom, Sandy, working behind the scenes. Viewing nature and skincare as a symbiotic relationship, you'll find the highest quality ingredients in their products.  Also, they just released new packaging and it's to DIE FOR. 

Q: First things first, let’s get the basics. Where are you from? Zodiac sign? The least favorite hairstyle you’ve had?

Born and raised in Minnesota, I'm a Scorpio, and my least favorite hairstyle has to be the short, spiky black hair I had ten years ago. We just don't talk about it and pretend it didn't happen.

Q: You're at your local coffee shop, and before you even open your mouth to order - the barista already started making it. What’s your usual?

Hot chocolate! I can't stand coffee.

Q: One thing you can’t live without.

Music!

Q: If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Anywhere warm, tropical and with palm trees.

Q: What’s the one piece of advice for anyone wanting to build their own brand you wish you were told in the beginning? 

Be true to yourself, and if you have an idea that you are passionate about and truly believe in, ignore what others say. It's okay to take criticism if it can help you see what you can improve about your brand, but staying true to your vision and pursuing it wholeheartedly will take you far!

Q: Every business owner has that moment that gives them the warm and fuzzies and completely reminds them what their purpose is. What was yours? 

It's always heartwarming to hear praise from customers. I remember one customer in particular was ecstatic about our clay mask that had cleared up her hormonal acne, when she had tried everything and been to multiple doctors, nothing up to that point had worked. It makes me beyond joyful and grateful to be doing what I'm doing. If it helps even one person, then I'm fulfilled.

Q: Favorite book? Cereal? Curse word? 

My go-to book is Goddess of the Night by Lynne Ewing. I LOVE Fruity Pebbles and Lucky Charms - really any fruity cereal is my kryptonite… I have the taste buds of a 6-year-old. And I don't swear. I just make angry dinosaur sounds when I'm crabby. I'm not kidding! (since I don't have any point of reference for what dinosaurs sound like, I just combine a random jumble of sounds from various movies and go with it).

Q: If you could bring back one canceled TV show back to the airwaves, what would it be? 

MOONLIGHT! I love vampires. It had a potential to be such a great show, and it was ended after just one season. Ugh.

Q: Would you say you are more of a Broad or a Jones?

Broad, for sure!

Q: Let’s say it’s the end of civilization as we know it, and you know you’re going to be stranded on an island for the rest of your life. What three albums would you bring with you? 

1. Any Christmas album, because Christmas music is just cheerful and if you're stuck on an island forever you need to have something peppy.

2. Heartstrings by Leighton Meester. I love her sound, and vocally she sounds a lot like me (closet singer, here) so I like that I can sing along easily.

3. Kaleidoscope Heart by Sara Bareilles.

 Q: What was the one character trait about yourself that was the hardest, but most empowering to embrace? 

Apparently, I'm passive aggressive when I'm feeling feisty. Not an attractive trait, but I can exaggerate it around family and laugh about it. 

August 12, 2016 by Jessica Evans
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Vendor Spotlight: Bang-Up Betty



Stacey of Bang-Up Betty
Stacey, the mastermind behind Bang-Up Betty, has created a jewelry brand praised for its minimal design paired with a strong message. Whether you need a simple reminder hanging from your neck that everyone can "Suck It", or it's one of those days where all you can do is shrug it off - Bang-Up Betty has got you covered. Named after her cat, the brand has been featured on BuzzFeed, POPSUGAR, Bustle and more. The best part of the brand? Stacey is pretty awesome and has a heart of gold, donating proceeds to certain items to an Arkansas-based Women's Outreach Center. It may be cheesy, but I think that calls for a "You Go Girl!" 

Q: First things first, let’s get the basics. Where are you from? Zodiac sign? The least favorite hairstyle you’ve had?

I grew up in North Little Rock, Ark., went to school in Shreveport, La., and now I live in Little Rock, Ark., which I swear is a different city than North Little Rock. I’m a Virgo, and I don’t know what that means. This one time in like the 8th grade, my aunt tried to perm my bleached hair, and it melted off, so… lesson learned.

Q: What’s your favorite 90’s jam?

It barely makes the cut, but “Freedom! ’90” by George Michael, because I don’t belong to you, and you don’t belong to me (yeah, yeah).

Q: One thing you can’t live without.

Cats.

Q: Let’s get real. If I were at your place, what would I find in your refrigerator right now?

Really, really old food.

Q: What’s the one piece of advice for anyone wanting to build their brand you wish you were told in the beginning?

Don’t rush! Take your time, really think it out, and launch something flawless. I think it took at least a year and one logo redesign for me to really get into the look and feel of Bang-Up Betty. I was really excited, so I rushed a lot of stuff.

Q: Every business owner has that moment that gives them the warm and fuzzies and completely reminds them what their purpose is. What was yours?

Anytime someone shares a story with me; it validates all this silly stuff I do. When someone tells me a friend got her one of my pieces to remind her that she’s strong enough to fight cancer, or someone tells me about the phenomenal friend she’s sharing a friendship necklace set with, or when someone walks up to my booth at a craft show and just nearly pees himself laughing… those are my warm and fuzzy moments.

Q: Favorite book? Cereal? Curse word?

Book: The Last Unicorn. Cereal: Cap’n Crunch (the roof of my mouth would disagree). Curse word: That’s like asking me to choose my favorite child.

Q: If you could bring one canceled TV show back to the air waves, what would it be?

King of the Hill.

Q: Would you say you are more of a Broad or a Jones?

I’m probably more of a Broad. I have an embarrassing number of skulls in my home. You’d think I live in a morgue.

Q: Let’s say it’s the end of civilization as we know it, and you know you’re going to be stranded on an island for the rest of your life. What three albums would you bring with you?

1.) “Make It Big” - Wham!

2.) “Midnight Vultures” - Beck

3.) “Turn on the Bright Lights” - Interpol

Q: What was the one character trait about yourself that was the hardest, but most empowering to embrace?

Self-doubt, I think. Sometimes it’s crippling, but it also keeps me humble, grounded, and always completely surprised and in awe of myself when I hit a milestone, and only occasionally in the fetal position.

 

Above photo courtesy of Katie Childs

August 05, 2016 by Jessica Evans
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Vendor Spotlight: The Crybaby Club


Photo by Amanda Hill of the Memphis Bombshells


In less than a year, Natalie Meagan has cultivated a community that embraces sensitivity, tears, and the undeniable fight we all have inside when it comes to personal demons. The Crybaby Club is a beacon of light, hope, and acceptance which is much appreciated in a society that seems to focus on negativity, shaming, and the day in the life of Kimye. We're so happy to have her, and The Crybaby Club as members of the Broad & Jones squad.


Q: First things first, let’s get the basics. Where are you from? Zodiac sign? The least favorite hairstyle you’ve had?
Oh gosh, hey! I'm from Memphis, Tennessee, but I was born and raised on a tiny farm in a tiny town on the outskirts of the city. Seriously, we fished for our dinner, grew all our own veggies, and my summer job was boxing up Catawba worms to sell to the bait shop in town. I'm a Capricorn, and according to MyerBriggs an INFP, and oh man, senior year of high school, I wanted a pixie cut (my first of many) and the lady who did it, basically just hacked off all of my hair and did nothing to style it at all. I looked like a very feminine 12-year-old boy. It was a rough year for me.
Q: If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
I want an impressive answer like Egypt or Japan, but honestly, I'd just love to live close enough to Disney World to be able to go whenever I wanted to.  🙈
Q: One thing you can’t live without.
ONLY ONE!? My laptop.
Q: You're at your local coffee shop, and before you even open your mouth to order - the barista already started making it. What’s your usual?
The local coffee shop that I frequent, City & State, knows I have to have my iced smoky salted caramel latte. Maybe even 2 of them.
Q: What’s the one piece of advice for anyone wanting to build their own brand you wish you were told in the beginning?
Don’t be afraid to fail, and don't let one failure make you feel like the whole thing is a failure. Oh and, everything you do, do with a genuine heart.
Q: Every business owner has that moment that gives them the warm and fuzzies and completely reminds them what their purpose is. What was yours?
Every time I get an email from a crybaby who has been especially touched by our message of inclusion and sensitivity celebration. I'm always so happy and full of fuzzies when I know my message resonates.
Q: Favorite book? Cereal? Curse word?
The Mercy of Thin Air by Ronlyn Domingue
Cocoa Pebbles  
Goddamn
Q: If you could bring back one canceled TV show back to the air waves, what would it be? 
Seinfeld
Q: Would you say you are more of a Broad or a Jones?
Definitely more Broad.
Q: Let’s say it’s the end of civilization as we know it, and you know you’re going to be stranded on an island for the rest of your life. What three albums would you bring with you?
The Format- B-Sides and Rarities 
Florence + the Machine- Ceremonials 
My Photo Album :)
Q: What was the one character trait about yourself that was the hardest, but most empowering to embrace?
My mental health. I have depression and anxiety, along with a bunch of other words that fall under the umbrella, and for a long time, I just wanted to be healed. A person can be affected deeply by something, I am that person, and I guarantee I'm affected.



Above photo courtesy of Amanda Hill of the Memphis Bombshells
July 29, 2016 by Jessica Evans
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