We had the good fortune of connecting with Jennifer Collins and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jennifer, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Hello there! I’m Jennifer Collins, a proud Texan from Houston’s Oak Forest neighborhood. My business partner and husband, Brian, and I have been happily married for 17 years and together for a whopping 24 years. We’re blessed with two incredible boys, Preston (9) and Mason (8), who are both bursting with creativity and an insatiable thirst for knowledge. Before embracing motherhood, I spent 13 years working in the corporate world as a Regional Loss Prevention Manager. My expertise lies in forensic interviewing and interrogations – quite fascinating stuff!

Now let’s talk about Brian! He served our country in the United States Airforce for five honorable years while studying finance and business administration on the side. After his separation from the military, he embarked on a fruitful career over seas in the Oil & Gas industry as VP of Global Operations – talk about impressive!

Fast forward to 2016 when we returned to the US after 5 years as expats, that year marked a turning point in my life as I fell in love with Early Childhood Education while strolling through my son’s preschool halls. The experience was so magical that I made the decision not to return to corporate life and pursue a career as a Preschool Director and watch my boys grow.

The year 2020 brought even more excitement into our lives when Brian completed his EMBA at Rice University. This milestone presented us with an opportunity to delve deeper into the idea of owning our own business. After three thrilling years of operating a preschool, a world-shocking pandemic, and a house filled with boredom-busting artwork, I made the difficult but necessary choice to shift our focus solely on our Art Studio.

Our mission is simple – we aim to become Oak Forest’s premier enrichment program, providing children with unparalleled opportunities for holistic development through art education and creation. At Kidcreate Studio, we offer a vibrant space where kids can engage in art classes, camps, and art-themed birthday parties. Our projects encompass a wide range of artistic mediums such as drawing, painting, clay work, mixed media, and so much more. We firmly believe that engaging in art nurtures various developmental areas in children, from enhancing motor skills and self-expression to fostering problem-solving abilities and sensory output. We can’t wait to get messy with you!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Get your day off to a fantastic start with a steaming cup of coffee at Luce or any of the delightful independent coffee shops in Houston. The city is brimming with options, each offering its own unique charm. Afterward, head over to the Stomping Grounds Garden Oaks. This vibrant venue caters to millennials and families alike, ensuring everyone has a great time. Finally, wrap up your day by immersing yourself in the captivating world of performing arts at The Hobby Center or Alley Theatre. Houston boasts an abundance of talent and entertainment that you simply cannot afford to miss.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I credit my daily determination and triumphs as both a mother and entrepreneur to the endless support of my husband. He continually pushes me beyond what I thought possible, exceeding all expectations and boundaries. However, the true catalyst behind my journey is my sons – their influence ignited the desire within me to establish a space where children can thrive. They continuously inspire me to embody unwavering support, kindness, empathy, and boundless love.

Website: kidcreate.com/houston

Instagram: kidcreatestudio_houstontx

Facebook: KidcreateStudioHoustonTX

Image Credits
Hi.Ke Photography (Family Photograph)

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