Conversations with Julie Nitz

Today we’d like to introduce you to Julie Nitz.

Hi Julie , 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?
Julie Nitz is a wife, mother to two amazing daughters, artist, graphic designer, and entrepreneur based in Stevensville–Saint Joseph, Michigan. Known for her love of abstract art—where colors guide each creation—Julie turned her lifelong passion for creativity into a thriving business.

JLN Studio, LLC opened its doors on September 10th, 2011, in a small studio in downtown New Buffalo, MI. In 2013, it expanded into a larger space in Three Oaks, MI, and today operates from a 1,400-square-foot art studio in downtown Stevensville, MI.

JLN Studio is more than an art space—it’s also a graphic design company helping businesses elevate their brand with website design, logo creation, packaging, brochures, pamphlets, and SEO writing services. Julie’s mission is to inspire creativity while supporting local businesses and bringing the community together through art.

Outside of work, she enjoys camping, working out, networking, and spending time with family and friends.

Alright, 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?
Being an entrepreneur is hard work—especially while raising two amazing daughters. The tireless effort, the long hours, and pouring your heart into every detail is not for the faint of heart.

Since opening, JLN Studio has grown at a steady pace, but the journey hasn’t been without challenges. COVID-19 was by far the hardest hurdle. At the start of 2020, it looked like it would be our best year yet—then in March, everything shut down. It took nearly two years of steady rebuilding to get back to where we were before the pandemic.

Through it all, our passion for art, community, and creativity has kept us going—and we’re grateful for everyone who has supported us along the way.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
What Julie Nitz Does
Owner & founder of JLN Studio, LLC in Stevensville, MI
Teaches art classes & workshops for all ages
Provides professional graphic design, branding, and marketing services

Specialties
Abstract art (letting colors guide the process)
Creative, hands-on art instruction in a welcoming environment
Branding & marketing design: websites, logos, packaging, brochures, SEO content
Helping individuals and businesses express their vision visually

What Julie Nitz is Known For
Blending artistic creativity with business strategy
Creating a warm, community-focused studio atmosphere
Helping businesses elevate their brand identity
Inspiring creativity in people who didn’t think they were “artistic”

What Sets Julie Nitz Apart
Unique combination of fine art skills and professional marketing expertise
Over a decade of steady business growth in multiple locations
Ability to make art approachable for all skill levels
Personalized, high-quality design work that reflects each client’s personality and goals
Deep community roots and commitment to supporting local businesses

Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
I started JLN Studio out of love and passion for art. I never looked back on my graphic design corporate job as passion was guiding me. My family and fiends have been a huge part of my business growth and I could not have done it without them. It’s ok to accept help and to ask for it.

Pricing:

• Adult art classes range from $30-$48+
• Kids art classes range from $28+
• Graphic design and marketing are on an hourly basis.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://julienitz.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jlnstudio/?hl=en
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JLNStudio
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jln-studio
• Twitter: https://x.com/jlnstudio
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCny3OsM3Wb-OJZi3UYDWFIA/featured
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/jln-studio-stevensville
• Other: https://linktr.ee/jlnstudio