Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Laber.
Hi Jennifer, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I originally started my business when I was studying fashion design at Penn Valley. While I was watching a home movie, young me greeted the camera with “Hello, cheeseburger!” and so my business name was born.
I first began making graphic tees and accessories. That eventually evolved into making handmade jewelry, and then into an online boutique featuring curated fashion jewelry and handmade pieces.
Life happened and I had to take a very long break from my business. In late 2019, I was desperate for a creative outlet and began dabbling in making jewelry again. I picked up some polymer clay and was quickly hooked!
I decided in November 2020, I was finally ready to start selling what I was creating. I have been releasing new collections each month since then, and have no plans of slowing down.
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?
As a mom of 3, juggling home life with creative life has been super tough. I tend to work in the evenings when everyone else is sleeping, so I have to regularly schedule some off time so that I can sleep.
The pandemic has affected getting materials to make new pieces, so I’ve had to become a little bit more creative at times to make things work. One of my favorite parts of having this business is connecting with people, so pop-ups and markets have been a little tricky.
Thankfully we’re able to start having these safely again and I look forward to getting out there.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
With Hello Cheeseburger, my main focus at the moment is on creating great earrings.
My pieces are known for making a statement, both through shape and color. I spend a lot of time working on new designs, learning new techniques and hand-mixing colors I know my customers will love.
I think that earrings can be the finishing touch to any look. I am proud of the items that I create and that my work can be an instant confidence boost for my customers.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I have found that the easiest way to connect with others has been through social media, and specifically Instagram.
I have reached out to other polymer clay makers, boutiques, creatives, coaches… most have been receptive. I think taking the time to learn about the person you’re interested in connecting with (especially try to learn their name) makes a huge difference.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: https://www.hellocheeseburger.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hellocheeseburger/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hellocheeseburger
