We were lucky to catch up with Valencia Jackson recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Valencia, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to go back in time and hear the story of how you came up with the name of your brand?

Absolutely. My late grandmother, Ollie, was a significant influence in my life. She exuded poise and creativity. When I started my crafting business, naming it after her felt like a natural choice – hence, Ollie Girl Creations. Later, when I ventured into birth photography, it just felt right to continue the legacy with Ollie Girl Birth Photography. Choosing those names was a heartfelt decision that came quite effortlessly for me.

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

Certainly. After becoming an army wife and a stay-at-home mom, I felt the desire to engage in something enjoyable that could also bring in extra income. My husband gifted me a heat press, and my mom got me a Cricut machine. Initially, I started creating canvas art and personalized onesies for new or expecting moms. As I shared my work on social media, the response grew, and more people expressed interest in purchasing from me.

Birth has always been a profound passion of mine – I consider myself a bit of a birth nerd. Researching extensively about birth was something I could do for hours on end. All three of my children were born naturally, with my first born on the side of the freeway and the last two born at home, unassisted. This deep connection to the birthing process led me to venture into birth photography.

In both of my businesses, my overarching goal is to glorify God and ensure customer satisfaction. Whether it’s through personalized creations or capturing the beauty of birth, I strive to provide value to those who choose my services. I take pride in consistently delivering on this commitment since the inception of my businesses.

How did you build your audience on social media?

Although my following may not be massive, I’ve found that consistency is key. Regularly posting content, leveraging relevant hashtags, and maintaining a friendly and engaging approach with others in the same industry have been instrumental in expanding my presence and growing my following on social media. My advice for those starting out would be to stay consistent, use strategic hashtags, and actively connect with others in your field. Building relationships and being genuine in your interactions can go a long way in fostering a supportive community around your brand.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most fulfilling part is undoubtedly receiving feedback from customers who express their love for the personalized sweatshirts I create. Seeing them share pictures wearing those items brings me immense joy. In the realm of birth photography, offering my services at a discounted rate initially allowed me to capture precious moments for families without them having to worry about the financial burden. It was a blessing for both them and myself.

Contact Info:

• Website: OGBirth.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ogbirth/
• Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/OllieGirlCreations
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/vachenza