Today we’d like to introduce you to Ryann Jarrard.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Hi, I’m Ryann Jarrard and I am the owner and graphic designer behind nine0nine creative – a custom invitation company.
I’m a native Houstonian and I worked in public relations for about 7 years before I realized my true passion was graphic design – specifically print design. Around that same time, I had my second child and my husband and I decided that I would stay home to be with our kids (my son was 3 at the time).
Now you might think I am crazy because I had a toddler and a newborn and started my own business but it was a great outlet for me. The name of my company actually came from my son – it is his birth month (September) and birth year (2009). Its been almost five years since I made the leap and I have learned so much about paper AND running a business. I cannot explain how rewarding it is to hold a finished design in my hands, and my heart is so full when my clients are in love with the finished product.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
This question literally made me laugh out loud! It has definitely not been a smooth road – I mean, where would the fun be in that?! Early on one of my biggest challenges was sourcing quality vendors because that is such a critical part of my end product. I thought for a hot second about bringing flat printing in-house but quickly decided to leave that to the professionals! I’m definitely proud of the vendor relationships I’ve built over the past few years – they are truly like an extension of my company and believe in my mission.
Another challenge is most definitely time management, which I hate to admit is something I still struggle with. It’s especially top of mind right now as both of my kids just got out of school for the summer. Thankfully, they are getting to ages where they can self-entertain and they love to do summer camps and activities which makes working a lot easier.
Like any creative – I also struggle with saying “no” to projects that just don’t fit my brand or aesthetic. It has definitely become easier as I’ve been in business longer because I realized that saying “no” to those projects left room for the right project to come along.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I’m an invitation designer for the timeless bride who loves a beautiful monogram and a classic invitation. I’m also an invitation designer for that bride as she moves on to other life milestones like having babies. Obviously, I love a good monogram but I also love trying other special details in from a couple’s wedding like the florals the bride will be carrying or a vintage map of the wedding location as an envelope liner. I also love an understated kid’s birthday invitation that is still fun and whimsy but also has a little bit of prep or elegance.
I’m proud of the way I serve my clients. For most, this is the first time ordering wedding invitations and so I walk them through every step of the process and am available to answer any questions along the way. I also love that each invitation is uniquely theirs and speaks to who they are as a couple. For my mama clients – I pride myself on a speedy turn around time and taking their vision and executing it beautifully.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ninezeroninecreative.com
- Email: ryann@ninezeroninecreative.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/ninezeroninecreative
- Facebook: facebook.com/nine0ninecreative
Image Credit:
Dana Fernandez Photography, Luke and Cat Photography, Lindsey LaRue Photography, Meg Ruffing Photography, Cathy Durig Photography
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