Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jocelynn Jasper. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Jocelynn thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with 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.

I’ve always worked in sales. I’ve always done well. I think back to how much time and energy I’ve invested into multiple jobs and how I’ve helped companies build wealth. I finally realized that it’s time to build wealth for my own family and if I put the same effort into myself that I’ve contributed to past jobs, I will be abundant! Every time I bet on myself, I never lose.

Coincidentally, years ago someone once asked me if I play the lotto. I replied, “No, because what are the chances I’d win?” This person replied, “Well, if you don’t play, you’ll never win.” This has been ingrained in my mind ever since.

Taking this risk to pursue my passion unapologetically is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made! I have the ability to earn my potential, network with tons of great people and have ridiculous amounts of fun while doing it! The reward of the risk is greater than the pain of regret.

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

I reside in the San Francisco east bay area, a native of Pittsburg, CA. I’m a single mother of 3 children and frankly, I was looking for a side hustle in addition to my full time job. I’ve always had a knack for art, but didn’t realize the fulfillment it would bring in my life.

Years ago, I had Director, Melissa, who had a great idea for our department to attend and sip & paint event. It was my first time painting on canvass. There were 60 folks in the room, and the host would visit my area and tell me how he admired the texture I added to my painting and that he wanted to incorporate the same technique in his own. At the end of the event, he pulled me to the side to take picture together (holding my painting), then whispers to me, “You should be hosting your own paint parties.” From there, I was inspired.

I started hosting private parties on the weekends, then began building relationships with local restaurants, wine bars and malls. This became fulfilling because restaurants love the customer traffic so paint parties would bring in a ton of business plus repeat customers for them. As the parties became more frequent, I started to feel a sense of community and purpose and began hosting charity events. Recently, I hosted a women’s empowerment paint event to promote women owned businesses in my community and build bridges between us all. Every 15 minutes I would highlight a local owned business on the microphone and introduce the owner. It’s a wonderful feeling!

Throughout this painting adventure, I am most proud of me. I am my own brand. I come alive in front of a crowd and Iove hosting, laughing, singing karaoke and gathering like-minded/positive individuals. Most folks think, “Well, I’m not artist and can’t even draw a stick figure!” And they’re right!!! However, paint events aren’t just about painting…it’s about socializing, networking, laughter, community and support.

I especially enjoy women that attend alone, because we talk and many times they make friends and return to future events. It’s amazing how many outstanding individuals I connect with just because I’m able to be my fun & authentic self.

As of now, I enjoy hosting parties and different locations because I’m able to support business owners. One of my goals is to travel and expand my vision with a wider audience, and use this as a vehicle to open more doors to creative endeavors.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

Do the weird thing. Initially, I started off trying to be like other artists in my industry, however, it didn’t work. Most folks offering the same service, do the same things. Brand yourself and people will attend/purchase just because they like YOU. So be the unique weird-o you are :)

Don’t focus on quantity, focus on quality and authenticity and people will come regardless. Your audience/customer is will find you, be yourself.

We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?

I was always anti-social media and technology! My old co-worker, Kim, got sick of it and built my Instagram page for me. Now, I’m rebuilding my new website, have a new logo and I’m in the process of creating other platforms. Most people that attend my events are referred by previous painters and people I randomly meet at bars, restaurants and grocery stores. Also, I’m taking a public speaking class to better articulate to my audience when making video posts.

One huge tip: Don’t be afraid to market yourself in-person. Talk to people and carry business cards (physical or digital). Please don’t rely just on social media platforms. Show your personality to the world in-person, then encourage folks to follow you on social media (in front of you) while you’re marketing yourself.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://jocelynnnscott.wixsite.com/mysite
• Instagram: @customartbyj