Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Hooten.
Hi Jennifer, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I loved to do anything related to crafts as a young girl. During high school, I took floral design, interior design, and even shop lol! I absolutely enjoyed learning every aspect of the creative side. In 2012 I opened a small boutique where I started to make jewelry with refurbished pieces. Later on, I started making shirts, mugs, keychains, baby hats and bibs, coin purses, signs, leather earrings and the list goes on. I was happy making these items but I still wasn’t sure what my niche was. Then in 2021, I started clay; I renamed my business to Lilly and Fran after my great-grandmother and grannie who now soar high. I found clay so interesting and relaxing at the same time. It’s mesmerizing mixing the colors and trying different techniques to see the end result. I have been making clay jewelry since and enjoy every minute of it!
Alright, 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?
Definitely not a smooth road! As a creator, I did so many things that I was constantly learning new techniques and not spending enough time on just one or two items. It took almost 10 years until I found my passion in creating with clay.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I found that I needed to focus on just one thing that I really enjoyed doing and put my full heart into it, then shortly after opening my clay business came the creation of the heart signature necklace. I really liked the idea that no two pieces of jewelry would ever be identical as I only specialize in one-of-a-kind pieces.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
Austin is a great place for the young at heart. Tons of places to eat at and venues to attend as well as live music. I dislike Austin because of the trash and safety issues there.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://lillyandfran.etsy.com/
- Instagram: @lillyandfran
