Conversations with Jennifer Gaines

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Gaines.

Hi Jennifer, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Growing up, my parents always encouraged my siblings and me to be our authentic selves. We were given space to explore our interests and mine centered on creating.

I remember times when we would bake and decorate aprons for family members, or I would make bracelets ‘just because’. During the summer, I spent a lot of time at Grandparent’s house (they lived next door).

My grandmother, affectionately known as, Grammy sparked the sewing flame way back during those summers that took off in 2016 when I randomly decided to make a teepee for my daughter, Jennevieve.

So proud that I was able to completely assemble it by myself, I shared the picture in several sewing groups on Facebook and received many offers to purchase. I launched my Etsy shop that same month, June 2016, and named it after a nickname my Dad gave Jennevieve, VivaLaVieve.

During that time, I was a stay-at-home Mom; Jennevieve was the only child. Since then, We have added a dog, Bleu, and two more children, Mathew and Casey, to our family. I work as an educator for a local school system by day and run my business by night. A lot of items in the Boutique are inspired by my crazy, fun family.

VivaLaVieve Boutique now carries a variety of custom (sewn and embroidered) home decor goods, apparel, and much more! Although items are still offered in my Etsy shop, most sales are made locally, in person, by repeat customers and referrals

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I am no stranger to the ebb and flow of life, and I know the hills and valleys are God-ordained and sustained. Being a working mom and small business owner is hard, but both are super rewarding.

When I began working in education, I was required to obtain teacher certification. This also came with the added workload of returning to school for my master’s degree. My husband was the MVP during this time for our household and VivaLaVieve Boutique, assisting wherever he was able.

Looking back, it’s all a blur – the days were super long. I don’t know how I made it through – I always say it was a supernatural strength that God provided.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
We are known for our custom embroidery, monogram, and appliqués! Our items offer a traditional feel but with a modern twist. It is exactly my personality and who I am, I enjoy making my house a home and caring for my family.

I want to exude that love onto my customers. My goal is to make homemaking cool again… but in a new modern way.

We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
I don’t believe much in luck. I know everything happens for a reason and all things work together for my good (Romans 8:28).

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/VivaLaVieveBoutique
• Instagram: @VivaLaVieveBTQ
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vivalavieveboutique