We had the good fortune of connecting with Jenna McKinlay and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Jenna, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
I opened up my brick and mortar boutique in 2011, and the first thing I did for decor is put a quote on the wall: “As a matter of fact, I rather feel like expressing myself now” – Audrey Hepburn. Not only is Audrey my fashion muse, but I love this quote and it was perfect for my type of business. Expression through greeting cards, notes, custom invitations to events, and a multitude of gifts. I was also expressing myself at a scary time in my life of starting a new business at the age of 26. Such a risk financially and a large sacrifice of time and energy. I had an opportunity to express myself in the boutique build out and reaching out to different vendors to offer my clients and decorate my shelves. Artistic expression has always been important in my life – in fashion, stationery, decor, and in relationships. If you are not expressing your true self and your unique genuine ideas, then who are you expressing to people?
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I have been in business now for 10 years. Though my business has changed over time, my love for what I do has stayed consistent and unwavering. I love working with my clients one-on-one. They are amazing people to work with, and I really enjoy the customer service aspect of my job. I love graphic design and printing, because each project is very different and exciting. It has not been an easy road, and is very unpredictable – the past year has been the most difficult with my entire industry completely coming to a halt due to the pandemic. It has been very very scary and worrisome on many levels. But I will always work hard and never give up. I am determined to set goals and grow my business more and more each year. It is so rewarding to be able to help people with their designing and printing needs, and creating wonderful relationships in the process. I strive to show expert professionalism and creative expression and make my clients happy, as well as the best quality product for a wide range of budgets. FLEUR DE LIS is a custom paperie with extensive experience in custom design and printing. I specialize in everything “paper” you may need for your wedding, event, personal and business – save the dates, wedding invitations, stationery, return address stamps/embossers, menus, programs, itineraries, place cards, wax seals, gift bags, letterheads, business cards, marketing items, etc. In addition to offering quality printing in every medium – letterpress, engraving, foil, embossing, thermography, digital flat – I also offer beautiful and customizable blank stock you can take home to create a masterpiece yourself. I can print your own special artwork to showcase your unique personal touch and expression to set the tone for your event or stationery. No matter your budget and style, I can help you create something beautiful! Consultations are always free and welcome. Located in Denver, Colorado but also online anytime and anywhere! I work with clients all over the nation, and really enjoy what I do.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Denver is such a special city! I was born, raised, and now enjoy rearing my own young family here. We have four seasons, the most beautiful parks in the summer and the most magnificent mountains to escape to in the wintertime. Our restaurants have been growing and have such variety, at least pre-pandemic – and I hope that with lots of local support, they will grow again and open back up. When friends visit, I love to take them to the area our studio is located – in LoHi. There are fun bars and restaurants and the view of next-door downtown is spectacular. It’s a great walkable area to go from one place to the next. One of my favorite spots for prosecco and apps is Il Postino – they have yummy gluten free options I very much appreciate and a beautiful view of the city. I also adore Union Station for a staycation in The Crawford Hotel and late night drinks in the Cooper Lounge. Breakfast and mimosas on Gaylord Street in East Wash Park is delicious and charming at Devil’s Food. Or a margarita at Agave Taco Bar around the corner. And of course, Washington Park is a must for a nice walk, picnic and lawn games or a bike ride. Denver has grown so much in population and developments, but it’s sweetness is still very much apparent in the people and places.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband has been unconditionally supportive since day one opening my business, and we had just gotten married. Now ten years later, he is still supportive and my cheerleader for everything – doing business, being a mother, and also encouraging me to take care of myself and my health. It has been a hard road opening up a boutique, closing almost 3 years later and changing to my current business model. Now with three little boys, it is a constant daily struggle balancing life as a person, wife, mother, business woman. It is a gift being my own boss, but it also brings a huge level of stress and responsibility for myself and providing for my family. Thank you William for being my partner and for lovingly encouraging me to follow my dreams.
Website: fdlpaperie.com
Instagram: @fdlpaperie
Twitter: @fdlpaperie
Facebook: facebook.com/fdlpaperie
Image Credits
Ashleigh Miller Epic Imagery Meredith Moran Scobey Photography