Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to JaEllisa Patterson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
JaEllisa , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?
I have always loved to create things. I started small and sold tutus and bows throughout college but I always knew I wanted to take it to the next level. I started doing research on how I could create different thing that people wanted personalized. At that time everyone was buying a cricut but I knew I didn’t want that. I invested in a machine called a silhouette and an industrial heat press. From there I would only create cups. One day my god brother asked me to do shirts for his birthday party and from there my business took off!
Initially when starting I had the thought that is was already a saturated market but them I added more products to personalized and people loved it. Another thing I did was cut down on the turn around time. I would accept orders that people needed within 2-4 days and produce the same product that people were telling them they needed 2 weeks to complete, sometimes even better. I also figured out a way to make the customer feel as if they created the product even though I had creative control. They always say “you can create the design” but I always question them to get to know them and i always let them edit the design I create.
JaEllisa , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
JP Vinyl and Designs Ltd. Co has been in business for over 7 years. We initially hit the ground running creating personalized items. This items range from cups, shirts, invitations, aprons, business logos, and more. Although we still offer that option we have moved towards more of a boutique style.
I initially started with creating tutus and bows for parties and different fundraiser walks. It eventually spread into creating shirts for birthday parties and thats when Jp Vinyl and Designs was created. Currently we are expanding and working with other small business to do. Collaborations and adding more products to the line up! Currently we have tumblers, glass cans, shirts, sweatshirts, keychains, candles, bags and more! Majority of the time if you have an idea in mind we can see it through!
How do you keep in touch with clients and foster brand loyalty?
One of the main ways I keep in touch with my clients and build brand loyalty is through social media. Anytime I do promotions I tag them and thank them for their purchase. I also ask them to send me pics of them using/wearing the product so they can be tagged. I send them special invites to events that I am attending as a vendor along with special discounts. Another way is I acknowledge my repeat customers. When the place orders, I will give them new items prior to the release for free, I will sometimes give them a discount on items, or If they or a bulk of shirts they will receive a few of them for free. One thing a customer likes is to be noticed and when you notice them they keep returning for more!
Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?
Ghat most effective strategy for my business has definitely been word of mouth. My family and friends are a big support in referring me as a great business. I have also started attending a lot of vendor shows and meeting new clientele there. Networking is key when trying to start a business so attending these vendor showcases has bought in not only individual customers but it has also allowed me to start collaborating with other small business. I have either created products for these small businesses or we have collaborated and took our businesses to the next level. We have also been able to share clientele.
Contact Info:
- Website: jpvinylanddesigns.com
- Instagram: @jpvinylanddesigns
- Facebook: JP Vinyl and Designs