Today we’d like to introduce you to Jassmine Smith.
Hi Jassmine, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My mom would take me thrifting often as a kid and I hated it! I would say, “Why are we buying other folks’ clothes?” She would quickly respond, “Girl, do you see these prices?” I didn’t quite understand the significance of thrifting until I was a student in college. Of course, money was tight, but I still wanted to look fashionable. I began to go to thrift stores for the unique pieces and low prices. During my sophomore year, my friend and I decided to serve the girls on campus with the unique thrift pieces we would find at Goodwill. We would style our friends for interviews, photoshoots, parties and etc. You name the event, we had an outfit for it. Fast forward nearly ten years later, and I am picking up where I left off. This time with a better understanding of how thrifting helps us live a more sustainable life. In a world full of trends and influence, I love encouraging women to own their style with thrifting. I love being a supplier of both thrifted gems and empowerment.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
I’ve had several jobs and businesses prior to starting Craft Road Boutique. I was a teacher for four years, and I loved the students, but I was overworked and underpaid. I often felt exploited as a teacher, and I did not have much time to delve into my passion for fashion. Much of my life was consumed with education. I always felt limited in the jobs that I had, especially as it pertained to fashion. I wanted my attire to be professional and appropriate, so I would play it safe. I wanted to be bold and expressive in what I wore. When I stopped teaching the classroom, I felt free to finally be creatively free in my fashion choices, and now I can help others explore their own creative style.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a fashion enthusiast, stylist, and reseller. My favorite genre of fashion is casual chic. A girl’s dream is to look fly while being comfy and that’s what I provide. I share outfit ideas, styling services, and thrifted gems for busy women who prioritize comfort and uniqueness. I am most proud of being a black-owned, inclusive, and sustainable brand.
Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
The biggest lesson that I’ve learned during Covid is to do and wear what feels good. I think many of us became very clear on what we’re willing to sacrifice. Comfort was one of the things that rose to our comfort lists. What truly brings me comfort and peace must come first.
Contact Info:
- Email: jassisserving@gmail.com
- Website: shopcraftroad.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jassisserving/?hl=en
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@jassisserving?lang=en
