A Closer Look|Interview With Jenneva M.
Today's Beauty and Brain’s gal is Jenneva M. You probably follow this beauty on Instagram. She's always sharing a daily dose of gorgeous selfies that slay, words of encouragement surrounding self-love and resilience, and you can't forget the hilarious memes. This entrepreneur and owner of Jennevam.com sells pieces ranging from swimwear to personalized jewelry. I got the pleasure of speaking with Jenneva about her blossoming business and what keeps her motivated. Check out our conversation below!
Have you always had an interest in owning your own business, what prompted Jennevam.com?
Yes! It’s always been something I was interested in doing for as far back as I can remember. Jennevam.com was birthed when I was in a rut. I was super unhappy with what I was doing at the time and just wanted to pursue something I actually had some interest in, so I took a leap of faith.
Your brand has brought on great success in a short amount of time, did you ever think it would grow and expand this fast?
To be honest, no. When you become an entrepreneur a lot of people will tell you they’ll support but they never do. I prayed and saged for the best lol. It’s been great so far but I haven’t hit where I want to be and I’m looking forward to seeing where I’ll go.
You've stated before that your brand and business is a one-woman show, you have built and done everything on your own. What are some of your responsibilities as a businesswoman and how do you stay motivated to keep going?
It would be easier to go over what ISN’T a responsibility LOL. I am literally everything from a replacement model, to a marketing/management team, to a creative director, occasionally a photographer, and even an unskilled graphic/web designer LOL. I do it all. Hopefully within a year I won’t have to do everything alone. What keeps me going is seeing the end product, seeing everything I do when it’s all done and it finally makes sense.
Do you think social media has played a major role in promoting your brand?
Absolutely, aside from word of mouth this is the only place I market my brand(for now.)
What tips do you have for young girls and women who want to start their own business?
Go for it! No matter how many others are doing something you want to do, WHO CARES! There are billions of people in the world to market to. So many people are there willing to support your business. There’s this quote I love “No one is YOU and that is your power.” NOBODY can run your business like you, NOBODY will give customers the same exact experience your brand does, and no matter how many others do what you do they’re not YOU. Whatever you want to do even if it’s not a business, do it. You’ve got one life to live in your purpose, and to be happy. In the end we’ll probably regret what we didn’t do more than what we did do.
Working hard and maintaining the hustle is important, but so is self-love and self-care. What do you like to do on your down time, what makes Jenneva happy and relaxed?
Right now I don’t get much down time, but when I’m not working I’m kinda boring lol. I like reading, talking to my boyfriend and outdoor adventures; I’m a homebody really.
Are there any other business ventures we can expect from you?
Yes! Two or three coming up by March 2017. I’m working on everything now. I’m so much more than a clothing site and I’m so excited to share everything with everyone!
Stay connected with Jenneva:
(Shop)
Jennevam.com
(Social Media)
Instagram.com/jennevam
A Closer Look is a series on my blog which spotlights young men and women in the world of media, business, and other creative career pursuits. This segment shares their story, experiences, and is geared to inspire and help others on similar journeys.