We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Janielle Cutner a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Janielle, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear how you think where to draw the line in terms of asking friends and family to support your business – what’s okay and what’s over the line?

It’s generally acceptable to ask friends and family for support in promoting your business, but it’s essential to approach it respectfully. Be clear about what you’re asking for, and avoid being pushy. Striking a balance is crucial, as excessive pressure can strain relationships. It’s important to gauge each person’s comfort level and respect their boundaries.

Open communication and transparency are key in navigating this dynamic.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

From an early age, I was captivated by art, gradually deepening my involvement over the years. My passion for digital arts blossomed in high school, leading me to pursue a college degree in graphic design. I earned my associates degree in 2019, even securing an internship where I designed a security emblem for a hospital—an achievement now proudly displayed across all their facilities. Despite obtaining my degree, the onset of Covid resulted in a job furlough.

Encouraged by a supportive group of women, I took a leap into entrepreneurship, establishing my LLC in 2021. Initially focusing on graphic design with local clients, I expanded into crafting personalized Christmas ornaments, which unexpectedly became a significant source of income during the pandemic. While working for a sign company provided valuable experience, the toxic environment prompted me to return to school for a bachelor’s in graphic design, refocusing on my ultimate goal of running my own business. Now, I’m in the process of transforming my craft store into a standalone company, passionately pursuing my dreams.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist and creative for me is the ability to translate my imagination into tangible expressions that resonate with others. Whether it’s a visually striking design, a thought-provoking piece of art, or a meticulously crafted ornament, the joy comes from seeing my creations evoke emotions, connect with people, and sometimes even become integral parts of their lives. The sense of fulfillment derived from turning abstract ideas into something concrete, meaningful, and appreciated by others fuels my passion and reinforces the profound impact that art can have on both the creator and the audience.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

A driving force in my creative journey is the mission to blend artistic expression with practical impact. Through my graphic design and crafting endeavors, I aspire to create not just visually appealing pieces but also functional and emotionally resonant experiences. My goal is to transcend the boundaries of conventional art by infusing utility and personal significance into each creation. Whether it’s a logo that captures a brand’s essence or a customized ornament that becomes a cherished keepsake, I seek to forge connections and add genuine value to people’s lives through my creative work. This mission propels me to continually evolve, pushing the boundaries of my skills to deliver art that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also leaves a lasting impression on those who engage with it.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.designsbyjanielle.com/
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/designsbyjanielle.llc?igshid=YzAwZjE1ZTI0Zg==
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DesignsbyjanielleLLC?mibextid=LQQJ4dI’m
• Other: https://enchantedcraftsdbj.com/

Image Credits
My friend took the picture and edited them