Today we’d like to introduce you to Janna Volmert.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I studied Fashion Design and Product Development at Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri graduating in 2009. Originally, my plan was to move and find a job in Dallas after graduating. Instead, I was offered a full-time position at a bridal boutique I had interned with in my hometown. I accepted (thinking it was a short-term plan) a position as the in-house seamstress and lead bridal consultant. I learned so much about the bridal industry making friends along the way. I met my husband, got married, and settled permanently in Jefferson City. Over time, I felt major burnout in the bridal retail scene. My long-term goal had been to design bridal but my creativity and passion for fashion in general was dwindling. I decided to quit with no other job in place. I planned to take some time to develop a small collection of dresses (non-bridal) but I was overwhelmed and had no plan nor belief I could even do it. I felt lost. I let go of the design dream and found a job within the insurance industry. It was a nice change of pace, predictable, stable, better pay, and surprisingly good at it, but it was not what I truly loved. My heart still tugged me in design. I did design projects here and there for close friends and family creating custom bridal and formal gowns for fun. Fast forward 5 years, a conversation with a friend really lit the spark to revisit a career in design in some way. Many had told me this but something about that conversation was different or maybe I was just more receptive. I knew custom bridal and re-design was something I really loved, and I could do, on my own, in my hometown of Jefferson City. I didn’t have much of a plan, but I knew I just needed to start. JM Couturiere began in late 2018 as a side job to my full-time job in insurance. I serve clients mostly in the Mid-Missouri area with custom bridal and formal gowns, alterations, and re-design services. In March 2021 I officially made JM Couturiere my full-time job. My long-term goal is still to design a line of bridal. I dipped my toe in original design development this summer designing two styles of non-traditional bridal. In just 3 years, the business has grown and I look forward to what the future holds for my love of designing bridal and formal wear.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
I would say, yes, that it has been fairly smooth. The biggest struggles have been confidence in myself, getting my name out there, and managing the many facets of a business by myself. Some days, I feel invincible, that I can do anything. Some days, I feel like I have no idea what I’m doing and want to give up. I quiet the negative voice by just moving forward, little steps at a time. As a self-proclaimed perfectionist, I have had to let go of the idea of doing everything and doing everything perfectly.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I provide a fashion design service of custom-made bridal and formal wear, alterations, and re-design. Although alterations and re-design make up much of my clientele right now, my niche is custom-made or couture (hence part of my business name couturiere). I love creating a one-of-a-kind wedding garment from scratch for a client. It is as unique as the wearer, which is pretty special.
In addition, I also design and make accessories (some original, some custom) in bridal such as veils, belts, skirts, and headpieces. Having a degree in fashion design, I have put my schooling to practice utilizing patternmaking, draping, embellishment, garment construction and development planning. This background brings a uniqueness to similar services in my area. There are many who provide an alterations service, but my foundational knowledge in design sets me apart. Everything is made by me in my studio from sketch to pattern to the final product. Not only do I create for others on request, but currently offer two original designed bridal gowns. The micro-collection is called En Fleurs meaning “in bloom”. They are non-traditional, limited edition and made to order bridal gowns.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs, or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Years ago, I read The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. I recently picked it back up to re-read. I highly recommend it. I belong to a Facebook group of women entrepreneurs. I know it isn’t the only group of its kind so I would encourage readers to join similar groups as well as a group(s) specific to their field of industry. A great place to pose questions to other business owners, offer advice, see how others navigate difficulties and simply connect. In regard to the art of couture, Brooks Ann Camper’s blog (brooksann.com) has been a great resource for me. She also offers patterning and sewing classes (hobby or professional). Don’t toss those college textbooks! I often revisit mine whether it is from my marketing or design related textbooks.
Contact Info:
- Email: jmcouturierejc@gmail.com
- Website: www.jmcouturiere.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jmcouturiere/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jmcouturiere/
Image Credits
Amanda Musselman Photography
Love Tree Studios
Jess White Artist
K Hulett Photography
Ben Nickelson Photo
