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

Hi Jennifer, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I didn’t start my journey as an artist/creative. I have always been a rule follower, existing in the workforce as an assistant to others and always behind the scenes. I’m an introvert at heart, and always will be, but my creativity was always lying beneath, waiting to come to the surface and shine. I think taking a risk and the fear of failure is what keeps your talents hidden. I believe that as you grow older, more confident and observe others succeed, you find the courage to take more risks. I have also learned that if you find something that soothes the soul, you have a happy soul. A quote that has always stuck with me is “If you don’t build your dreams, others will hire you to build theirs!”

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
When I first named my business, Sew Rustic LLC, I had envisioned including woodworking and woodcraft items as well. Three years later, during Covid-19 we were able to take that risk and add a CNC Router Machine and began producing our woodcraft product line. I’ve always leaned toward the modern and trending. Embroidery is a traditional art and so is woodworking, I love to design with a more modern eye in both of these arts. I love making heirloom items that will last for generations with a modern twist. Quality products that people love to give and receive. Including gifts for babies, children, adults, home decor and pets. I spend hours doing research and testing products so that they are durable and will withstand time. Everyone has failures, you just have to use your problems solving skills to overcome those failures and challenges that pop up along the way. Designing also takes a great deal of time. I’m thankful for the skills I have developed over the years and my eye for colors. I also like to find humor and include my religion in my designs.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Houston is a great city of diversity. I would start with ChinaTown (and assuming this tour would be post Covid-19) out to eat! Houston is definitely a foodie town, with plenty of fine dining to make any palate happy. The Museum district is educational and an art lovers dream. Everyone who comes to visit always ask to go to Waco to see Magnolia and even though it is not in Houston, it is a fun day trip. Along with Spring and its many antique shopping.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband, David, definitely deserves credit for being a strong support system in starting my business. After Hurricane Harvey devastated Houston, it took a great toll on my mental health. David saw me through that dark period and encouraged me to find some type of “physical therapy.” When I told him I wanted to begin sewing again, he jumped right on the internet and found a sewing machine dealer and we drove there and purchased my first machine. We returned six months later to upgrade to a second machine and six months after that a third machine. With David’s support, time, talent, strength and love we have been able to bring the business full-circle.

Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/SewRusticLLC
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sewrusticllc/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sewrusticllc

Image Credits
E. Townsend; Jennifer Lamden

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