We were lucky to catch up with Anna Jehovan recently and have shared our conversation below.

Anna, appreciate you joining us today. Some of the most interesting parts of our journey emerge from areas where we believe something that most people in our industry do not – do you have something like that?

I’ve noticed that many people are skeptical about the high price of handmade products. It often seems like they compare them to mass-produced items and don’t see the difference. But every handmade piece carries not just the cost of materials, but also the time, soul, and energy of the artist.

When I first started working with ceramics, I was amazed at how many details go into the process: from choosing the clay and designing the piece to hand-building and glazing. For example, I once created a set of plates for a client, and each one was handmade with slight variations that gave them a unique character. It’s not just a product — it’s a piece of art that can never be replicated.

This experience helped me understand that the price of handmade goods isn’t just about the item itself — it’s about recognizing the labor, quality, and uniqueness behind it. Unfortunately, not everyone is ready to see it that way. But I believe that through education, storytelling, and open conversations, we can change the way people view artisanal work.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Anna, and I am the founder of Jehovan Ceramics. I create unique, handmade ceramic tableware, including mugs, plates, bowls, candle holders, and vases. Each piece is crafted using hand-building techniques, without the use of a pottery wheel, which makes every item truly one of a kind.

I discovered ceramics after the birth of my second child when I began searching for a passion that would bring me joy and allow me to create. Before that, I worked as a nail artist, but I had always dreamed of doing something meaningful with my hands. One day, my husband asked me if I wanted to sell tableware or create it, and that question marked the beginning of my journey into ceramics.

I take pride in the fact that every piece I create is made with love and attention to detail. My goal is not just to make tableware but to give people a chance to feel the warmth and energy of handmade work. I believe that such pieces can make everyday life feel special.

What sets my brand apart is that every item is unique—no two pieces are ever the same. It’s not just tableware; it’s a story brought to life in clay. I want my clients to appreciate not only the quality and design but also the soul behind every piece.

I’m especially proud of the journey I’ve taken: teaching myself the craft, launching an online store, and now preparing to open my first physical store. This is more than just a business for me—it’s a passion that inspires me every day.

I want my clients to know that behind every piece is a person who creates it with love and genuine care. Jehovan Ceramics is more than a brand—it’s a way to inspire people to see the beauty in life’s simple but meaningful moments.

Can you talk to us about how you funded your business?

My first step was researching grants and programs that support creative entrepreneurs. I found a grant for aspiring business owners and applied, investing a lot of time and effort into writing a business plan and describing my vision. To my surprise, I won! That grant became my initial funding.

In addition to that, I used some of our family savings to purchase equipment and materials. It was definitely a risk, especially with two young children, but my husband supported me every step of the way. He believed in my talent and my ability to build something meaningful.

We’d really appreciate if you could talk to us about how you figured out the manufacturing process.

Yes, I personally create all the products for Jehovan Ceramics. When I first started working with ceramics, I had no prior experience in this field. I started from scratch: learning the basics of working with clay, hand-building techniques, and the firing process. It was a completely self-taught journey that required a lot of patience and time.

Instead of using a pottery wheel, I chose hand-building because it allowed me to connect more closely with the material and create truly unique pieces. Every product I make goes through a lengthy process — from the initial idea to shaping, drying, the first firing, glazing, and then the second firing.

One of the biggest challenges was finding the right materials and equipment. Initially, I used basic tools and clay purchased from local stores. Over time, I discovered suppliers who provide high-quality materials, and that has significantly improved my work.

The most important lesson I’ve learned is that every detail matters. If you rush or overlook something at any stage — whether it’s the quality of the clay or the drying time — it can affect the final result. I’ve also realized how essential it is to stay open to learning and not fear mistakes. Some of my best ideas have come from accidental “mistakes” that turned into unique solutions.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jehovanceramics.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jehovan.ceramics?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr