Today we’d like to introduce you to Christina Alexander-Jiles.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Christina. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Birthing the idea…
With two teen daughters (pre-teen at the time) who have to have EVERYTHING, my husband and I figured a great way to teach them responsibility would be to teach them about entrepreneurship and utilizing their gifts and abilities. I set out to teach them how to sew and in the summer of 2013, we launched! Now, mind you, I didn’t know how to sew but I knew I wanted to learn and that we’d figure it out together. It’s great because it teaches them how to hone their skills, trust themselves creatively and also how to offer great customer service when we attend events. Now that we have two daughters in high school and one soon to be graduate, the thrill has gone for them but I continue to sew, create and grow. Once school is out for the summer, they jump back on board and help with the shopping and design when they’re able so it really is a family affair!
When I’m not sewing, I am usually at home being a total nerd. I love to read, watch documentaries and learn a little about everything! It is our birthright to create and when creators create, everyone wins! Oh and music. I LOVE music!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
There have been many bumps in the road but I chose to look at them as learning curves. From finances to burn out and everything in between I have endured it. Entrepreneurship is not for the faint of heart. As you grow, you learn and you have to adapt. The biggest issue I’ve come across is not having a clone or two to help in this entire process. It gets hard. It can be very time consuming so you have to be sure that you love what you do while at the same time finding your balance. Another struggle of mine is being what’s called an Introverted Entrepreneur. I can become very overwhelmed at events and speaking engagements which keeps me from attending as much as I’d like to. I challenge myself yet I am learning to be gentle with myself as well. Entrepreneurship is two-fold. It is to provide a service or products to others but the other side of the coin is that you learn much about yourself in the process. Although a struggle, it’s been a beautiful journey. I wouldn’t trade it for the world!
Please tell us about Nerdgirlchic Custom Pillows & More.
I specialize in custom/personalized pillows & home decor for the home or office. I offer a variety of items at different price points so everyone can experience NGC Pillows & More for themselves. Our NGC Pocket Pillows have proven to be successful in years past but our NGC Collage Pillows are this year’s hot item. I pride myself in great customer service and well-made products. Oftentimes, great customer service is overlooked but not for me! I believe in treating people with kindness because that’s how I’d want to be treated. Once a client contacts me for a consult I listen, I suggest, and most of all I try my absolute hardest to bring their idea into fruition for them. What sets me apart? Clients come to NGC as clients and leave as family! I value our clients because I know if it weren’t for them there’d be no us.
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
I’m not sure. I don’t really think I’d do much differently. It was all a learning experience that I’m thankful for.
Contact Info:
- Email: nerdgirlchic@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nerdgirlchic/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nerdgirlchic/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/NGCPillowsnMore
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