We were lucky to catch up with Jennifer Debiaw recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Jennifer thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Risking taking is a huge part of most people’s story but too often society overlooks those risks and only focuses on where you are today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – it could be a big risk or a small one – but walk us through the backstory.
I’ve always been a very risk averse person. Throughout my life, I always made safe and easy choices. I went to Texas A&M. It was close to home, but not too close. I started out down the Engineering path, predictable (especially because that’s what my dad wanted me to do). When I discovered I really didn’t like Engineering, instead of doing a complete 180, I found Industrial Distribution which got me into the business side of things, not too far off the Engineering path. While my degree got me some great jobs, I always dreamed of business ownership. In the background, I was always trying to find something I was passionate about. I went to University of Houston and obtained my MBA while working my first job out of college. I took a side job with Sur La Table, working beside the chef during cooking classes. I subscribed to email distros for businesses up for sale. I talked business ideas with friends. I looked at a few, but the risk always seemed too great even as a single woman without too many responsibilities. Meanwhile, I worked hard, saved money and finally got into a position at work that I loved. I dropped the business pursuit at that point, got married and started a family. Then, as almost every story has these days, “COVID happened” and as did everyone’s world, mine did too. I will skip all the details on that because there really isn’t anything too interesting. Through the isolation, I got serious about a sewing hobby, formed an LLC and started selling my hand sewn burp cloths at the local farmer’s market. I loved getting out and being involved in the community. By complete coincidence, I came across The Rustic Brush – Katy/Fulshear and before I could even enjoy it as a customer, I found out that it was about to close. I can’t really explain what lead me to pry and ask questions other than to say that God intervened in my life. I knew it was a huge risk for me and my family, and my husband was hesitant, but God knocked down all the barriers and everything started falling in place. We took over the business and it was a little scary, but I continue to have faith that God has a plan for me, my husband and kids with this business. I have no idea what it is, but I am excited to experience what’s in store for us. By our standard definition, this was a huge risk because my kids are young (3 and 6 at the time), my husband has a full time, demanding job during the day and so do I, there was a significant monetary investment up front and the rent is not cheap. Much of our work is simply to pay the Landlord, but this risk feels so right Blessed every day to be exactly where I am.
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?
The Rustic Brush – Katy is a DIY crafting mecca. We focus on wood sign and home décor workshops for building projects our guests will proudly display in your home or office. We guide our guests to complete their customized piece from start to finish, no experience required. We have a relaxed and social environment that is perfect for entertaining and having a good time.
Beyond wood, we collaborate with other small businesses to provide more learning to our guests on skills like cookie decorating with royal icing, charcuterie arranging, flower arranging, wreath and blanket making and more. We offer Spring Break and Summer Camps for Kids.
We are a BYOB establishment and welcome groups big and small from corporate events to date nights. Come alone, bring your family, friends, or co-workers and share in a social crafting experience! Get creative, learn new skills, and just make memories with your friends and loved ones.
What’s been the best source of new clients for you?
Word of Mouth
Any thoughts, advice, or strategies you can share for fostering brand loyalty?
Social Media & Email
Contact Info:
- Website: https://therusticbrush.com/locations/katy/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therusticbrushkaty/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therusticbrushkaty/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-rustic-brush-katy-fulshear