Meet Aubin Tankersley: Founder of Jane Designs

We had the good fortune of connecting with Aubin Tankersley and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Aubin, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Initially, I started making jewelry as a hobby. I had fun creating my own designs and loved that I was learning more and more each day. Eventually, I started giving this jewelry to my friends, who all gave me very positive feedback. Without a job to fund my new hobby, I realized the only way I could continue making jewelry was to start selling it. This way, I could pursue my newfound passion while making a profit. 

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Question: What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story? Although I sell an array of jewelry, I enjoy designing earrings the most. Jewelry is definitely an overcrowded market, so I differentiate myself by designing jewelry that is fun, expressive, and accessible to everyone. I love giving people the freedom to wear a new pair of earrings every day that helps enhance their outfit. I want to give everyone the opportunity to express themselves in a unique, personal way. I am motivated by the idea that jewelry can help an individual feel like a truer version of themselves.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’m a student at Colorado State University in Fort Collins, so I would start off with breakfast at Lucile’s, my favorite breakfast spot in town. I’d order her a benedict with a beignet on the side, my personal favorite. Next, we’d make a stop at Horsetooth Reservoir, a must if you’re visiting Fort Collins. Before leaving town, I would make sure to grab a scoop of ice cream from Josh & Johns. From here, I would drive her to Rocky Mountain National Park, making our way to Grand Lake via Trail Ridge Road. This road has some of the greatest views in Colorado and is a must for out-of-towners. Once we made it to Grand Lake, we’d spend some time canoeing, hiking, and hammocking while enjoying the stunning mountain views. After a few relaxing days in Grand Lake, we would drive down to Denver to walk around Washington Park, better known to locals as Wash Park. After these stops, I would be confident that I had shown her some of my favorite places in Colorado.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to thank my family for encouraging me to pursue what was initially a side hobby. They saw something in me that I didn’t; I wouldn’t be where I am today without their daily encouragement. I’d also like to thank my friends, who have inspired many of my designs and been my biggest supporters. Finally, I’d like to acknowledge the middle school students I lead through a non-profit ministry that takes kids to camp for a week each summer. When a few students couldn’t afford to go, I had these girls sell my jewelry to fund their way to camp. Without their sweet friendship, I wouldn’t have realized the possibility of selling my jewelry on a larger scale.

Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/janeeedesigns
Instagram: jane.jewelryy