Meet Trailblazer Jennifer Ortiz

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Ortiz.

Jennifer, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I’m originally from Dorado, Puerto Rico, an island girl that always knew she would make the move to the US and fulfill her goals. I lived in Puerto Rico for 25 years and acquired my bachelor’s degree in Marketing. Always being involved in the arts and dance, I became fascinated with fashion. I’m guessing it was because of the costumes I would wear, it was all very inspiring to me. I then decided I wanted to do my masters in Fashion Design and that’s when I moved to Atlanta, GA. I did two years in the program and just felt that I didn’t see myself in that industry, so I transferred to Accessories Design where I fell in love with the craft. Working with leather, making handbags and shoes was mind-blowing to me. Especially going through the process of having an idea and then actually seeing that shoe or handbag come to life. Now that I have fulfilled my goal, I can officially say I’m an Accessory Designer.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not been easy, especially moving from Puerto Rico and not knowing anyone once I got to Atlanta. This has certainly been a tough road. I don’t get to see my loved ones or spend holidays with them. Also, having the reality that I wasn’t on the correct field and had to transfer to accessories came with moving to another city where I didn’t know anyone again. On top of that, I was not sure if I was going to like my new chosen field. But all of this was everything that needed to happen. I believe that things happen for a reason and looking back, I know I am where I’m supposed to be.

My advice for young women that are starting would be to always try to do what you are passionate about and never stay with “what ifs.” Take risks if you have to because you never know where the open doors will lead you. Work hard and stay true to yourself.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about JMOR – what should we know?
JMOR is my accessories brand which is my full name initials and I’m working on building my studio in Atlanta GA. The studio will consist of making handmade leather goods, handbags and upcoming soon shoes. The aim is to be able to have a space for teaching customers the experience of making their own leather goods. I feel that what sets me apart is that I want the customers to have the experience of making something on their own, the feeling of achieving something makes it more special and memorable.

Contact Info:

• Website: j-mor.com
• Phone: 787.242.1881
• Email: byjmor@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/byjmor/

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