Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Hill.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Jennifer. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
My story… it’s been quite a journey to get to where I am today, as is true for most of us. I’m a midwest transplant, born in Chicago and raised mostly in the suburbs. I have three siblings that I’m very blessed & grateful to have. My father worked as a social worker and my mother a Homemaker, and I capitalize Homemaker because this has become a lost profession through the years and yet is one of the single most important jobs. I adopted a few of my Father’s philosophies early on in life: “if you’re going to do something… do it right!” And “treat people with kindness & fairness.” I’ve tried my best to apply this in every aspect of my life. I was always creative and colorful, especially in my wardrobe. Mom said I would change my outfits several times a day as a child. One day while getting ready for 1st grade, I walked out the door in a satin white lace slip. I remember my Mom running out the door telling me to change… I was simply a little ahead of the times, after all, Madonna got away with it! Designing, styling and creating have always been some of my many passions. In middle school and high school, I couldn’t wait to decorate the interior of my locker each year; spending most of my summer thinking of various color combos, wallpaper, and accessories to style with.
After high school graduation, I pursued a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts: Graphic Design from the University of Kansas. I graduated and moved back to Chicago working in advertising. A few years in, I found myself back in the suburbs as a Homemaker, raising three energetic boys who give me a purpose in meaning in my life… every day. Life took a different turn and I found myself as a single Mom raising these three blessings for over 16 years now. It certainly hasn’t been easy, but I always feel a sense of happiness and joy every day; even in the most difficult times. I choose to be happy and laugh… a lot. Colorado certainly makes that simple and easy. I wake up and look out my window every morning and pinch myself… yep, I’m here, living the dream. I moved here less than two years ago, so maybe I’m still in the “honeymoon” phase, but I can’t imagine not being in awe of this beauty that surrounds us. I don’t EVER want to take it for granted. Which brings me to my present status and one of my proudest achievements, other than my incredible boys… Denim & Duke Home Staging and Styling. My company includes myself and my mostly silent partner Duke. He’s a 14lb. Cockapoo whom I am madly in love with. What sets me apart from other designers and home stagers, I design authentically. What does that mean? I’ve adapted my Father’s philosophy, treat people with kindness and always be fair. I listen to my clients, and not just about what “stuff” they want in their home or businesses, but I listen & hear their story… where they come from? Where are they going? Their families, passions, hobbies, lifestyle and more. I’m not decorating for me, and my style – it’s about them. I style for everyday people who want a cohesive look that reflects their lifestyle. I love the challenge of using what my clients have in their home and simply moving things around creating a whole new look. I respect their budgets, It’s an amazing profession, I never know who I’ll meet each week and where I’ll go. I’ve met some incredible people along the way, creating many friendships. Especially home staging, this can be a difficult time selling a house; emotional and stressful. I can relate. I sold most of my belongings in my home of 20 years where I raised my boys and moved out to Colorado. I respect my clients and carefully listen during this process. I am always honored and humbled when hired for each job or project. Denim & Duke is not only my company but it is my energy and passion… it has taken my whole life to get here – I feel grateful and truly blessed. My journey continues…
Has it been a smooth road?
Has this been a smooth road? Absolutely not. But I’m grateful for the “bumps” that’s what gives me depth and character, and courage. Being a single mom for many years, I’ve encountered many “bumps” but I got creative and found humor, every day. Maintaining balance in life is always a struggle; mothering, work, finances, relationships… and so much more. We are all being bombarded daily with so many challenges. Finding that balance is always a struggle. Personally, maintaining who you are and being true to yourself has been my saving grace. And surrounding yourself with people who are positive and nurturing. We all need a little help sometimes and having these relationships to help guide and lift you up from time to time is a blessing. Some advice for young women, stay true to yourself and trust your gut. Take it all in every day, listen and look around you. Meet people and talk to them… and most importantly, listen. We all have stories to tell and be heard. Lift each other up-especially women, let’s be supportive.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into Denim & Duke Home Staging | Styling story. Tell us more about the business.
Denim & Duke is a home staging and interior styling company. I am the proud owner and currently the primary Designer. I am HSR certified (Home Staging Resource) and a CCE (Certified Color Expert) and also have a bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design from KU. I’ve always had an eye for style and creating design with accessories that already exist in a home-which makes me budget friendly! It’s a challenge that I am always up for in any space. For example, I’m currently working with a realty company that gives me 2 hours to stage a home before the photographer arrives… I always think that would make for a great HGTV show! I’m a little anxious before arriving at the property, you never know what to expect, but I’m also energized by the experience as well. Every job or project is different and I respect this; I tailor each design and create with you to your needs and wants. On my website; denimandduke.com, it says “AUTHENTIC LIVING DESIGNS” that’s what sets me apart from other designers-authenticity. I design for you. I want to hear about your story and together create spaces that reflect your lifestyle & passions in your life. I work with your budget and respect your hard earned money. My clients are amazed that I mostly use accessories right from their home. And if I’m staging your home, I respect your belongings and your time. This is a stressful and emotional time; I will make time for you & listen. I will be objective but respectful and get your house sold quickly and for more money. I am proud to say that all of my clients I consider friends. They welcome me into their homes and businesses and trust me to give them a more cohesive design and I am humbled by each experience.
Do you have any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general? What has worked well for you?
I love networking because I like meeting people in all walks of life. My company really took off after joining the Louisville Chamber. It’s a great way to meet people locally and establish partnerships. It’s important to make these connections in your community and to be open to new experiences and events in the area. It’s also a lot of fun; so many events & parties! And of course branding & marketing on social media. I’m still working on the social media avenue. I love my brand; I worked diligently with a local graphic designer, Melissa Beckwith of Melissa Beckwith Designs and photographer Liv of Tiny Dragon Photography, and together created an authentic website that really captures me and the essence of Denim & Duke.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.denimandduke.com
- Phone: 6302777476
- Email: denimandduke@gmail.com
Image Credit:
Tiny Dragon Photography: tinydragonphotography.com
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