Allow Me To Introduce Myself
Hello! My name is Jess, and I am the owner (CEO, Creative Director, Customer Service Representative, etc.) of Florence and Jean. I grew up in Colorado, and although I've lived in Nebraska most of my life now, when asked where I'm from, Colorado is the answer. I like to say I had the best of both worlds (hey Hannah Montana!) - growing up in the 'burbs was amazing, but I got to spend a lot of my time on my Grandpa's farm and with my grandparents in Lincoln, where I ultimately decided to go to college. I live in Utica with my husband (a carpenter/general contractor), three kids (a son and two daughters) and two dogs - mini golden doodles (Mabel and Margot).
Owning a store has been a dream of mine as long as I can remember (although I think I put "J Lo's Personal Shopper" as my dream job at my Senior Banquet for the swim team). I was born with a love of (and knack for) shopping. I come by it honestly - my mom is one of the best in the game. Accessories have long been my speciality. I prefer jeans and a t-shirt as a blank canvas - the accessories are the icing on the cake, so to speak. As the great Rachel Zoe once said, "Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak" - and accessories are the perfect way to express yourself. They don't have to be expensive or super fancy - in fact, mixing "high and low" has always been one of my favorite ways to accessorize.
My love for accessorizing doesn't stop with personal accessories - it spills over into my love for home decor, theme parties and celebrating just about every holiday out there. Again, props to my mom for making every occasion feel special and decorated. This is why, at Florence and Jean you'll find a bit of everything, from jewelry to home decor, party supplies, hats, gifts, art supplies for kids (and grown ups alike). I spend much of my time scouring other small businesses for the most fun and unique items for the shop.
You'll also find many Florence and Jean Originals - mostly bracelets, bag charms, charm necklaces/bracelets, hats and shirts or sweatshirts (the Florence and Jean uniform, if you will). I started making bracelets for myself and my daughters during covid as a creative outlet. I worked many years in the corporate world (turns out, not for me) and felt less than fulfilled. My designs have evolved over the years (hello sports mom era!), while staying true to the heart of what I believe - that you should take your fun very seriously.
If you're still reading along - thanks for being here! I hope you have as much fun here (online and in store) as I do. Happy Shopping!
