We recently connected with Jill Klee and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Jill, thanks for joining us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

The greatest risk I’ve ever taken is opening my business. Prior to this, I was a Police Sergeant with the Los Angeles Police Department. In 2020, I had to medically retire after 15 years in law enforcement. I retired in March of 2020, which was the start of the pandemic and the world had changed. Shortly after retiring, I went through a divorce and had to navigate the world as a single mom. To say I was lost would be an understatement. While trying to find purpose again, I had the idea of opening a craft studio. I have never owned a business and I wouldn’t consider myself an artist; crafty, yes but definitely not an artist. I decided to take a risk and open my business in the middle of a pandemic. I’m glad I took this risk; it has given me purpose again and changed my life forever.

Jill, 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?

Hammer and Stain-SoCal is a DIY wood craft studio that isn’t DIY because we Do-It-Together. We are more than wood signs; we are an experience. I pride myself on providing an experience that will let you have fun, relax, and be creative; even when you aren’t the creative type! Bring your beer and wine and enjoy a night of fun with us. We want to make sure every piece of art that is made in our studio is as unique as you! We have so many projects and designs to choose from and you will even get to choose your own paint colors. We will walk you through the entire process and make sure that your project is something you will be proud to display in your home or give away as a gift!

We are the perfect place for birthday parties, business events, team building and especially for a girl’s night out. If you can’t make it to the studio don’t worry, we can come to you! Our mobile events range from small parties at your home to large school events.

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

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being creative is watching others pride themselves on the project they make. The majority of people coming into my studio for the first time are hesitant and skeptical because they believe they are not “crafty”. I assure you, one of the amazing things about my studio is you don’t need any artist skills. Not only will I walk you through the entire process but the process we use to make our projects is simple and leaves little room for error. Watching someone complete their first project, they have a sense of accomplishment and pride and it is very rewarding to watch.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My mission in my creative journey is to provide an experience for those that come into my studio. My journey has given me peace again, given me a purpose. It is now my goal to help others experience the peace and joy I have gotten in my studio. I provide a safe environment for my customers to come and relax, destress and just “check out” of life for a few hours; and to top it all off, they leave with an amazing home decor project.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.hammerandstainsocal.com
• Instagram: hammerandstainsocal
• Facebook: Hammer and Stain-SoCal