Today we’d like to introduce you to Jen Scheffler-Johnson.
Hi Jen, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
RBJ was born out of the need for catharsis as when it was launched, I was fresh out of grad school, working as a teacher, and going through a divorce.
Having the creative outlet really help me process what I was going through and the network of amazing people that I met in the process of growing the company has been the glue that held me together during that difficult time and also what has shaped me into the person that I am today!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The last fifteen years have FLOWN by when looking back and are full of the ups and downs of entrepreneurship just trying to stay afloat during our ever-fluctuating social, cultural, and financial times! I started the company at the beginning of 2008 so the fact that I made it through the first years was a miracle! I would say that the struggles are the normal bootstrapping struggles of a fledgling company.
I didn’t come from retail and I was given a chance to be a part of a company that was retail facing and an avenue to sell my creations. I learned a lot in that process about what I wanted to do and what I did not want to do. I was supported by my hometown – New Prague, MN and so many people from my undergrad and grad networks – St. Bens and the University of MN. I was given so many amazing opportunities and always tried to say yes… I asked for what I needed and didn’t get discouraged when I was rejected….again, again, and again…
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
realia by jen is a jewelry company.
We care a lot about how people feel on the inside because we know how much that impacts how people treat themselves and others. This company was started by a language teacher and so it is quickly evident, when you view the collections, just how much words matter!
Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
Yes, of course! We made it through to this stage in the game and learned so much on the way.
Financially, 2020 was the most difficult year we have ever had and we made it through by leaning into our current customer base and really focusing our efforts on online sales and social media since there was no way to be in person! We have had to continue to transform and evolve the designs and the way that we get them in front of people!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.realiabyjen.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realiabyjen/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realiabyjen/
Image Credits
Megan Stans Photography
