Today we’d like to introduce you to Jenna Kator. Them and their team share their story with us below:
The fading automotive industry may have pushed Jenna Kator out, but not out of her home state; she created a handbag company.
After graduating from Michigan State University Jenna Kator worked in advertising on automotive-related accounts. In 2008 Metro Detroit underwent an economic downturn that left many having to leave Michigan to find employment. Jenna lost her job during this time of uncertainty; she wanted to stay and prevail.
Jenna took this as an opportunity to go after her lifelong dream of being an entrepreneur and began showcasing her collection of quality handbags that fulfilled the need of an affordable price point. She believed this was an excellent time to restore the self-confidence of women by giving them an extra-bounce in their step while bringing some light back into the Motor City, its suburbs, and the State of Michigan.
Jenna is proud of her roots and pays tribute to her home state by naming each showpiece after a place in Michigan that exhibits great beauty, character, and charm.
Jenna Kator has grown a community fan base in her home state over the past 12 years while working full-time alongside her husband Michael Kator.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
With anything in life there is hard work. If things were easy, then so many others would be doing the same thing. With hard work comes sacrifices and always challenging your weaknesses.
When you are your own boss, you set your own standards for success and the funny thing is… the bar is always moving. It’s all about never settling and constantly evaluating your position. You never stop learning.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a Michigan-based handbag designer and I love connecting people through design while embracing life’s simple joys.
The Jenna Kator Collection is versatile, classic, yet trendy. Vegan leather is only used; it is the belief that one can dress stylish and sensibly while helping to protect animals. Versatility is the signature to the success of the brand by offering multiple styling options that take you from day to night.
What were you like growing up?
When I was younger my favorite movie was Baby Boom staring Diane Keaton. I recall feeling very inspired while watching it as it fueled a certain entrepreneurial energy that I am still driven by today.
From there I found myself creating many different little odds and jobs from decorating recyclable jars, selling candy, starting a babysitting club all while being under the age of 12.
I really enjoyed creating something that people would also be excited by. There was surely something special about seeing a result after putting your heart into it.
Pricing:
- $44 – $149
Contact Info:
- Email: Sales@jennakatorhandbags.com
- Website: www.jennakator.com
- Instagram: @jennakatorhandbags
- Facebook: @jennakatorcollection
