Meet Jasmine Smith | Stationery Business Owner & Content Creator

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

Hi Jasmine, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
I started my business back in my senior year of college. Not because I wanted to sell stickers and stationery full-time. I did it because I was inspired to start a hobby from my professors at Chapman University. As a graphic design major, something one of my professors really pressed was to do something outside of school work you loved. I loved art and making people smile with my art and that’s when I wanted to do more. I know I was created to spread love, joy, faith and positivity to my community. And one day in one of my art classes, a classmate created stickers for her sorority. That’s when it hit me, I could make and sell handmade stickers. Although, stickers seem so small and insignificant there’s a community who loves it. I found that community online. Without sharing my first moments on social media I would not have gotten my foot in the door. I didn’t have a massive business loan or partners, I had a gifted Cricut, a family printer, and an iphone. I believed in myself and had faith in God that I could become successful. I was working a 9-5 when starting my business journey after graduating college.

Knowing where you come from early on will inspire you to dream big. Even if you start small, be grateful for those moments. The more I posted the more I grew. It took about 2 years to see any traction. However, sure enough I went viral, and that’s when I saw a huge shift. I started pouring my heart and soul into my craft, constantly learning, practicing and making changes. Being consistent through it all, even in my low moments I had to keep going.

Ever since I have been designing and selling stickers and now over 8 different types of stationery goods and accessories.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is inspired by bright colors, gen z trends, and my Christian faith. It really started with quirky sayings that I hand-lettered that tend to incorporate floral elements, shapes, or retro tech. I love being able to use my creative skills to make my designs and products. Some of which are handmade.

It wasn’t easy. I started my business as a hobby in college and opened an Etsy shop with 4 sticker designs. From there I didn’t know what to do. It was almost a spur of the moment when I started selling. I focused on finishing school before taking my business seriously again. Once I did I used my resources, the internet and social media (free) to grow. I posted content about my business. Some behind the scenes and tips that resonated with the right community.

At times, I do wish I could rebuild my community that is more focused on my consumer basis. I went viral 2 years after posting consistently. With that came great success but also meant I needed to better manage my expenses and time. I also wish I created my products my audience would love. There have been a lot of flops and failed products. It hurts. Sometimes I think I care too much about what I think looks good or should be made and less about what my customers want.

At the end of the day I am drawing and creating products to authentically represent myself and what society loves. I want my brand to spread more love, joy, fun, and faith.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
We have to go shopping, to an amusement park, enjoy the beach and eat good food. There’s so much shopping in Orange County but going to South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa and the Irvine Spectrum in Irvine.

Next I would take them to the beaches. Orange county beaches are some of the best. I love Laguna Beach, we could go to Thousands Steps Beach early in the day. Then grab something to eat at Splashes.

Of course we have to spend a day at Disneyland. The happiest place on earth. One of my favorite places ever. Enjoy both Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure. Get ice cream on Main Street, get hots at Award Wieners, get on Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean. End the day with the fireworks show and 20,000 steps.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First God, but also my family. My Mother Cheray, Grandmother Mary, and Sister Brianna. I also have to shoutout Chapman University and the Graphic Design department specifically my professors Rochelle Chuang, Eric Chimenti, and Claudine Jaenichen. Without their support I wouldn’t be here today.

Website: https://www.jasmithdesigns.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasmithdesigns/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jasmithdesigns/

Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jasmithdesigns?lang=en