About Jess (Sep 2023-Aug 2024)
From Sep 2023 through Aug 2024, this was my About.
Stories evolve. Perspectives shift. I like to keep things fresh, but I also find growth shows up in the written history. So here I’ll be keeping my previous “Abouts”.
Since June 2022, when JA Murphy Designs LLC was officially founded, I’ve been wandering through the world of self-employedness. It all started with 10 Zenspo (TM) designs, sold originally through print-on-demand. Since the launch of the initial design line, I’ve created 100+ designs, developed several entirely custom gift bundles, learned how to bring all production & logistics in-house, re-outsourced (Zazzle), and have rebranded / re-released with major overhauls my website 4 times. There are so many milestones in there. My first sale. My first Instagram follower. My first sale on Etsy. My first sale to a stranger on my own website. My first in-person event. My first in-person sale. The list goes on and on, and each deserves it’s own celebration.
Since the very beginning I’ve been supported by family, friends, other creators, and each customer who stops into the City of Rochester Public Market booth. I’ve been overwhelmed by perfectionism, lists of things I want to try and make, and often times fear this is all going to fail. When those feelings pop up, though, I remind myself of the people I’ve connected with over the past year. Often times complete strangers. Strangers who have said things like “I feel like you’re making these [designs] for me.” and “We should be friends because we share so many hobbies.” These types of interactions mean a lot to me as a small business owner. I’m full of gratitude for all the support, feedback, and kindness I’ve experienced over these months of in-person selling.
It’s my distinct hope the community gets two things from my designs: joy (maybe in the form of a chuckle or laughter) and feeling seen. It’s my goal to reach people who maybe aren’t normally reached. Touch their souls and hearts in ways maybe not normally touched. Help them feel special and loved. It might be in the form of a sarcastic mug design about crime shows, or it might be a serious sticker for encouragement. They might not remember who designed it, but it’s my hope when they interact with my designs on whichever media they choose they feel lighter, connected, and a bit happier.
Read more about my mission and values below.
Updated: August 11, 2023
