Meet Trailblazer Jennifer Valdez

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

Jennifer, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Originally, I’m from Texas, I came to Denver when I was 19 looking to start a new life. When I left Texas, I left everything I had ever known, including my family. At first, it didn’t really bother me, my mind was preoccupied with exploring this new world.

Over the years, I found myself surrounded by people but feeling more alone than ever. Feeling down and depressed, I started shopping. Retail therapy anyone?

On one of these trips I left the store with a basket full of flowers. I had no clue what I wanted to do with them, all I knew was that they brought a smile to my face.

When the flowers started to crowd my bedroom, I decided to do something about it. I picked some flowers, grabbed some floral wire, glue gun and went for it!

This was the beginning of my love relationship with flowers. <3

I started sharing my creations with my friends on social media, and their support has been incredible! It’s their encouragement that has led JV Hartly to where it is today.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. There’s been a lot of self-doubts, comparison, wondering if it’s even worth it. But seeing a smile on someone’s face every time they put on one of my crowns, assures me that I’m on the right path. I’ve also been fortunate enough to collaborate with photographers and models, and see how they integrate my crowns with their art. They never stop surprising me with the beautiful images they create together!

The best advice I can give any inspiring young women is to NEVER EVER give up on your dreams. No matter how ludicrous or unachievable they may seem.
I know we hear these words often, but there is so much truth in them.
And last but not least, own it! Be You!! 100%!!
Never stop showing up, whether you have one fan or 1 million. Always show up and spread your message. <3

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about JV Hartly Crowns – what should we know?
I specialize in creating luxurious, fun, artsy flower crowns for all ages and occasions including weddings. This year, I’ve expanded my creations to include premium cannabis crowns and mermaid crowns!

As a brand, I try to create each crown to be special and one of a kind, with a focus on comfort. Before I began creating crowns, I could never wear the ones sold in stores because I would get headaches from the bands. Now, I create wearable art that not only looks good but feels good when worn. No headaches here!

Do you feel like there was something about the experiences you had growing up that played an outsized role in setting you up for success later in life?
Growing up in a small town, I would always hear people around me dreaming of bigger things, but never taking the step to leave their comfort zones and explore the world. In the back of my mind, I knew that if I ever wanted to accomplish my dreams, I would have to take risks and never settle for less.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.etsy.com/shop/JVHartlyCrowns
• Email: jvhartly@gmail.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/jv_hartlycrowns/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/JVHartly

Image Credit:
Blue Eclipse Photography, Model Bet Johnson, Saadiq Creations, Model Jackie Groetken

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