Today we’d like to introduce you to Jandi Harris.
Jandi, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I’ve always loved to sew and had no problems sewing for myself. I limited my sewing projects for family and friends due to my fear of judgment and tendency to be a perfectionist. When a few of my friends and I decided to start a business in the summer of 2017 (Craft Savvy Market – a marketplace for crafters who create unique handmade products ), the famous adage “Necessity is the mother of invention” became my truth. I wanted to be a vendor at the first Craft Savvy Market and thus, my business idea was born.It was a chance to conquer my fear of being judged about what wasn’t right and to celebrate what was right. Starting Pepperbush Accessories was my way of kicking fear in the face and letting my creative voice be heard. It was also a way for me to blend my love for sewing,and my love for Ankara fabrics. Shortly after, I began making satin lined Ankara bonnets, Ankara totes, and other accessories and I officially opened my shop in March 2018.
A little more than a year later, I have opened an Etsy store and I am excited about what is to come.
Has it been a smooth road?
Certainly, I believe that a handcrafted business also has a unique set of challenges. One of the challenges that I’m still figuring out is handling the creation of inventory. Also, Because each Pepperbush Accessories item is handmade, I have struggledto keep up with producing large quantities needed to participate in larger vendor markets. It is easy to get worn out when you are the only employee of your company. I’ve learned to manage my time by planning ahead and creating inventory in batches as opposed to two weeks before a major event. I’ve also learned to set achievable and realistic sales goals, knowing that each vending opportunity requires the production of inventory.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Pepperbush Accessories – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Pepperbush Accessories is all about bringing the vibrancy and colors that Ankara fabrics represent to our customers. I was born and raised in Liberia, West Africa, and the pepper bush is an integral part of our culture. It provides the spice, the flavor and the uniqueness and sense of culture that is Liberia. I grew up surrounded by Ankara fabric and for me, that is what the patterns and colors of Ankara have provided – a unique addition to my style, and a way to celebrate my culture and set me apart.
Over the years, I have developed love and appreciation for how my culture has inspired and shaped me. I want to bring some of that colorful inspiration to my customers. Currently, my products include satin-lined Ankara bonnets, Ankara totes, Ankara head wraps, and scarves. I am proud that I play a role in all parts of the creation process from purchasing quality pieces to cutting, sewing, packaging and mailing each item.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I love the fact that Atlanta has become a fusion of so many different cultural inspirations. You can meet people from all parts of the world, hear their stories and experience the cultures of so many different lands.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/PepperbushAccessory
- Instagram: @pepperbush_accessories / @brokenforbuilding
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pepperbushaccessories/
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
