Today we’d like to introduce you to Jahna Becerra.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
As an adult, it’s often hard to recall childhood dreams, but I find that when I do, I am able to tap into my truest self. As a kid, my favorite class was always Art, but I’ve also always had an entrepreneurial spirit. I genuinely loved making things with my hands, but even as a child, I desired to sell what I created.
My family lived in Katy, but my mother’s doctor appointments took the two of us all over Houston. Often times, she would allow me to go to a bead shop during her appointment, and this is how I got into beading and jewelry making. Both my parents also worked for major oil companies in Houston, and during the ‘bring your child to work’ days, I was taught about rock formations and gemstones.
At the end of high school, sitting in my AP Art Class, I recall knowing that I wanted to have my own business one day, and I chose Graphic Design as the asset I would like to have as I grew my business. Soon after this realization, I qualified as a National Merit Scholar. I was then recruited to attend the University of Oklahoma, where I graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design and a Minor in Art History.
Now, as a Graphic Designer turned Product Designer, I seek to beautifully join design and function in every product I create. From greeting cards to jewelry, my products are created to celebrate life and inspire joy.
Please tell us about your art.
In the fall of 2016, I started making Hand-Cut Leather Tassel Necklaces with matching Bracelets, and I wore them almost every day. I was constantly getting compliments, and women were asking me if they could buy one. I was so excited to have found something that I enjoyed making and others wanted to purchase! With this confidence, I started my company, Jahna’s Lavish Market, in March 2017. I was fortunate enough to have my small line of jewelry carried at a local store in Katy, where it has been selling ever since.
My love of typography (fonts and their layout) often finds its way into many of my products, which now includes greeting cards, hand painted gift bags and decorative signs, as well as t-shirts. I cut, paint, and string, every item made and sold by Jahna’s Lavish Market. I even design and build some of my wooden display pieces used for my jewelry.
I am often inspired by nature, and I find that many of my products center on natural materials, including semi-precious gemstones and freshwater pearls, sterling silver, and leather. I am also inspired by my relationships. So many of my products have come from creating something unique and special for an important moment in a friend’s life. For example, my line of Bracelets for Girls, ages 5-12, was first inspired by a friend that wanted personalized stocking stuffers for her girls. These smaller-sized bracelets quickly became a mainstream product for me, and are currently one of my best-selling items!
Many of my products are often purchased as a gift for a special occasion. I hope to bring joy and beauty to people’s lives, whether through a beautiful piece of jewelry or a thoughtfully designed card.
As an artist, how do you define success and what quality or characteristic do you feel is essential to success as an artist?
I define success as an artist as finding an audience for my work, and celebrating them. I am so grateful for all the kindness my customers have shown me, and for their ongoing encouragement. That being said, I think that humility and resilience are two qualities that are essential for success as an artist. Nothing ever seems to go the way I think it will, but this doesn’t have to be a bad thing! I have found a lot of success in being able to adapt to the response of my audience. It is all worth it when someone chooses to purchase something that I have designed, made, and merchandised!
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
My line of handmade jewelry, stationery, gifts and home decor can be found at various Pop Up Shops and Weekend Markets across the Houston Area as well as on my Website. To view my latest work and keep up with where my next Pop Up Shopping Event will be follow me on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 281-862-8704
- Website: www.jahnaslavishmarket.com
- Email: jahna@jahnaslavishmarket.com
- Instagram: @jahnaslavishmarket
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/jahnaslavishmarket
- Twitter: @jahnaslavishMKT
Image Credit:
Jahna Becerra
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
