Rising Stars: Meet Janelle Wald of Cherry Creek/RiNo

Today we’d like to introduce you to Janelle Wald.

Hi Janelle, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Media Bio Founded in Denver, Colorado, AthenaStirs was created by Janelle, a Minnesota native inspired by the wisdom and warmth of her grandmothers. From flour-dusted kitchens in the North to the vibrant culinary-jazz world of New Orleans, Janelle discovered that creativity and courage often begin with a simple act—stirring. Where craft meets courage.

Blending heritage, craftsmanship, and modern design, AthenaStirs celebrates the strength and artistry of today. The brand’s signature aprons are more than kitchen wear—they’re symbols of empowerment, confidence, and creativity in motion. Hand crafted elegance for those that stir the world.

Since beginning product development in 2013 and launching the full collection in 2025, AthenaStirs continues to inspire across generations to embrace the beauty of their everyday and live boldly. Get your apron — live your dreams. Forge your legacy.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Definitely not. Encountered all the struggles of the modern entrepreneur. Initially I could not get any of the fabric suppliers to take me seriously they would not return my calls. Most of AthenaStirs fabric is purchased on the coasts LA and NY. I had to find a mentor that owned an existing yoga clothing company also made in Denver to connect me. That took time and came with its own challenges. The rethinking of the apron design started as a sketch on a cocktail napkin. I had to find a professional pattern maker to bring my ideas to life. People thought I was crazy for focusing on what was at the time a forgotten item. People were not wearing aprons anymore as they rise and fall in popularity, however since then other competitors with great designs have entered the market. Another big challenge has been finding a powerful tag line that really works, however in 2025 we have discovered a few great options that will surface in 2026. Follow us for the reveal!

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?
For the past five years, Janelle Wald has served as Vice President Membership Engagement The Chamber Grand Forks East Grand Forks, President Crookston Area Chamber of Commerce, Executive Director Northwest Private Industry Council Workforce Development Board of Northwest Minnesota. As the Executive Director, she implemented and led, employer-driven initiatives with a $2 million Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) portfolio that leveraged funds through extensive local, regional, national, and statewide partnerships.

Wald has also served as Chair of the Minnesota Association of Workforce Boards Business Services and Economic Development Committee, aligning Minnesota’s economic, workforce development, and education priorities state-wide. Wald has extensive experience managing partnerships across sectors. Other past roles include serving as an affiliate board member for Association Minnesota Counties and as an equal opportunity officer and founding signor for an inclusive workforce employer strategy designation.

Wald earned her Bachelor of Science in Marketing and Management from the University of New Orleans, her Master’s in nonprofit management from Regis University in Denver, Colorado, and is a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Southern Mississippi in Human Capital Development. She is originally from East Grand Forks, Minnesota and is passionate about Human Capital Development, start-ups in the aviation drone industry as she is also an Entrepreneur and Consultant in Denver, Colorado.

So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
Stand out in style with custom aprons designed to elevate your brand. Perfect for culinary professionals, culinary scholars, businesses, and corporate teams looking to make a lasting impression at trade shows, conferences, or in the studio.
Step 1. Collaborate
Work with our founder or sales teams to bring your ideas to life. Share your colors, logos, and style preferences. You can pick fabrics, straps, thread colors, pocket designs, and more! Your brand. Your colors. Your craft.
Step 2. Design
We create your perfect apron mock-up and refine it based on your team’s unique needs. You will get a sample of your custom apron for approval before the order goes to production.
Step 3. Production
Once your sample is approved, your aprons are put into production and handmade using the finest materials to ensure durability and style.
Step 4. Delivery
Your custom aprons arrive ready to impress your team. This apron can stand up to all that you can dish; it’s an AthenaStirs original.
Elevate Your Brand with Custom Aprons
When it comes to making a statement, the details matter. At AthenaStirs, we design premium, custom aprons for culinary professionals, aspiring chefs, businesses, and corporate teams who value artistry, durability, and style. Whether you’re working in a bustling kitchen, leading a workshop, or representing your brand at a conference, our aprons are more than functional—they’re a reflection of your team’s personality and professionalism.
Why Choose Custom Aprons from AthenaStirs?
Your team deserves more than a uniform—they deserve a standout piece that sets the tone. Our custom aprons are crafted to:
Represent your brand with colors, logos, and designs that pop.
Impress at trade shows, conferences, or in your workplace.
Offer unmatched quality with luxurious, durable materials that last.
How We Work
Designing the Perfect Apron for Your Team
STEP 1
Collaborate
We start with your vision. Work one-on-one with our founder or sales teams to bring your ideas to life. Share your brand’s colors, logos, and style preferences, then customize every detail—from fabrics and straps to thread colors and pocket designs.
STEP 2
Design
Our team creates a mock-up of your perfect apron, tailored to meet your needs. We’ll refine the design until it aligns with your vision, and you’ll receive a sample apron for approval before production begins.
STEP 3
Production
Once approved, your aprons move into production. Handmade with premium materials, our aprons are built for style and performance, ready to handle any challenge your team takes on.
STEP 4
Delivery
Your custom aprons are delivered directly to your door, ready to turn heads. From the first impression to the final stitch, your AthenaStirs apron is designed to make your team shine.
Who We Serve
Our custom aprons are the perfect solution for:
Culinary Professionals: Show off your expertise with aprons as polished as your craft.
Culinary Scholars: Celebrate your journey and passion for the culinary arts.
Businesses: From coffee shops to art studios, let your team’s look reflect your brand’s style.
Corporate Teams & Corporations: Create a cohesive, professional image at trade shows, conferences, and events.
Universities: Elevate your team with professional-grade aprons that inspire confidence and showcase school pride.
AthenaStirs is here to turn your vision into reality. Let us help you create custom aprons that showcase your brand’s personality while delivering unmatched quality. Reach out today to get started on designing the perfect aprons for your team.
Ready to Elevate Your Brand?
Your brand deserves the best. Let AthenaStirs help you make it unforgettable. Go to AthenaStirs.com and fill out your first and last name phone and email address. Wear your craft!

Contact Info:

• Instagram: athenastirs.aprons
• Facebook: athenastirs.aprons

Image Credits
Abby Anderson