Today we’d like to introduce you to Jenna Roland.
Jenna, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Northern Michigan has always been home to me. I was born and raised in Boyne City, and even after spending over a decade away for work in North Carolina, I always knew I’d find my way back. My background is in Biology and Adult & Pediatric Cardiac Sonography, and I now work in Clinical Research. While my career has always been rooted in science, I’ve found balance and joy in exploring my creative side — and that’s where NoMich® began to take shape.
If you know me, you know I’m almost always in a hoodie and hat — a style that’s followed me since growing up on the ice, playing hockey, and spending long hours at the rink. That easygoing, comfortable lifestyle is what inspired the heart of NoMich®. Over two and a half years ago, the idea started as a small spark — a way to celebrate the beauty, lifestyle, and laid-back spirit of Northern Michigan. What began as an idea has grown into a reflection of everything that makes this region special.
When you wear NoMich®, it’s a reminder of where pines meet shorelines, small-town charm fills the air, and life moves at an easy northern pace.
This past summer, I had my first craft show in Boyne City over the July 4th holiday. I was blown away by the local support — reconnecting with friends I hadn’t seen in over a decade and meeting so many people who connected with NoMich®. I was truly humbled by the response. Since then, I’ve done additional craft shows in Boyne City, Traverse City, and Charlevoix, and I’m excited to continue this journey as I build the brand.
I’ve been incredibly lucky to have so much encouragement from those closest to me. My husband, Bryce, has been my biggest supporter from the very beginning — always reminding me to believe in myself and my vision. My friends and family have cheered me on every step of the way, and my mom has been by my side at shows, helping make it all possible. It’s also been a joy to see my niece and nephew excited to wear NoMich®, which makes all the hard work feel even more rewarding.
Today, NoMich® represents more than apparel — it’s a way to share the feeling of Northern Michigan. The lake views, the pine trees, and the strong sense of community all capture what I love most about living here. I spend as much time as I can outdoors with Bryce and our chocolate lab, Tank, exploring local trails and lakes — always soaking in the inspiration that surrounds us.
One of my biggest goals with NoMich® is to give back to our local 231 community — the people and places that make this region so special. I feel so lucky to be back home, surrounded by family, nature, and endless inspiration. Through NoMich®, I hope to share a little piece of that northern feeling with others.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
One of the biggest challenges has been figuring out sizing, colors, and which items to bring to shows. It can be tricky to predict what will be most popular at different times of the year, from the sizes people need to the colors that resonate. I really enjoy hearing customer feedback. For example, at one show, several people asked for zip-up hoodies. I hadn’t thought of that, but it was a great suggestion, so I added them for the next couple shows—and they were a hit. Experiences like that make each show exciting and help me better anticipate what will connect with my customers.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My background is in Adult and Pediatric Cardiac Sonography, and I now work in Clinical Research.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
For me, success isn’t just about numbers or sales—it’s about creating a brand and a lifestyle that reflect the beauty and spirit of Northern Michigan. Success is seeing people enjoy and connect with NoMich®, whether it’s someone slipping on a cozy hoodie at the lake, discovering a design that reminds them of home, or simply smiling at the small details that make our products feel personal. It’s about growing in a way that lets me stay true to my creative vision, involve my family and community, and give back to the place I love. Every show, every order, and every story shared by our customers feels like a step toward that success.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nomich231.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nomich231/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nomich231
