We had the good fortune of connecting with Jill Callan and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Jill, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I studied fashion in college, then started my career in NYC. I started designing menswear right out of college, then moved into children’s wear since it aligned with my personal creative side. In 2008, many people in my industry were being laid off due to the jobs going overseas. I felt bad for my employees as well as all the others in the industry. I was trying to think of a way to employ us “artists” so as to not be dependent on large companies. That’s how the idea started. I wanted to open a shop that sold a collective of local artists designs. I expanded past my town and found many designers on etsy who were willing to sell to me wholesale. There was a good variety of product geared towards children. It was “the” place to shop for unique items. Over the years, I’ve expanded my view by reaching to European countries as well for their unique items. That brings me to today, a beautiful store with European and local designs, all the while maintaining exclusive yet affordable products.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I started out in NY designing children’s wear. I was immersed in the industry for almost 20 years. I travelled to Europe for inspiration and China for the technical side of things. This has given me a great overview of the industry and gives me the ability to make sure the lines I carry are not only aesthetically pleasing but also made of great quality. That’s what I would like people to take away from shopping with us-that my background greatly impacts the way I stock my store today. My creative side also gives me an advantage when merchandising the store and finding the best products available.
I’ve enjoyed every minute of my journey. I can confirm that it hasn’t been “easy” but it has been an achievement in every sense. I am doing something I enjoy and couldn’t imagine doing anything else. It fulfills my inner creative person, my social side in talking and meeting customers which become more like friends, and the business side which keeps my mind sharp by learning every day!
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?
Since I am immersed in Parker, my first stop would be to Main Street. We’d stop at my store because someone always needs to get a gift for a little one in their life! Then I’d go for a martini at Parker Garage, a burger at Tailgate and then hang out at Black + Haus ( a new restaurant here on Main Street). I’d then go to Kilwin’s for a chocolate treat for later. Then do a little shopping at The Local and buy something amazing for myself at Parker Panache! A perfect day as far as I am concerned!
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
This is a strange way to start, but I won’t let anyone say I “can’t do something”. Before I even opened my first store, I went to a local Chamber event. I remember talking to the President who completely downplayed my knowledge and experience and he didn’t think I would proceed. Fortunately for me, I had already made up my mind… his negative input only made me work harder to succeed. So thank you Ira-I really mean that!
More people than not, have encouraged me along the way. One such person is Kathleen McGill. She is a woman in overdrive! I came to Colorado about three years ago and was quite shy and apprehensive. She made me get out of my shell and be proud of what I have and going to accomplish!
Another person that is dear to me since he was so encouraging was my mentor Robert Anderson of the Colorado Enterprise Fund. He helped me “start” my business here in Colorado. But he did so much more than that with his positivity and advice, he literally had the confidence that I could do this. That means a lot when starting out (again)!
And one more person that I owe so much to is Lindsay. She was a local business owner in Parker. We talked daily, both encouraging each other. Her personality is such a “go-getter” that I learned a lot from her, especially in the sense that she just drove forward regardless. We still talk daily even though she has since moved to another state.
Website: www.petitparker.com
Instagram: @petitparkerandco
Facebook: @petitparker
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2lQoaYj-PdUAQGtYpKvSCg
Image Credits
Nicola Jane Photography Wonderstruck Photos
You sound like a true and gifted entrepeneur. I am impressed.