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

Hi Jori, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
What started as a hobby turned into a boutique, and that boutique evolved into a lifestyle. I didn’t wake up one day and decide to start a business—I was led to it. My journey as an entrepreneur came from a deep desire to help others see themselves in a greater light. I’ve always believed that we are all equipped with purpose; sometimes, we just need the right tools to activate it. Confidence, self-expression, and vision are at the core of everything I do, and that’s what fuels JModish Couture.

JModish is more than just a fashion brand; it’s a movement. At its heart, JModish is about freedom—freedom for women to embrace their true selves and express who they are with confidence. The fashion we create isn’t just about clothing; it’s about identity, empowerment, and reclaiming space in a world that often tries to limit us. Too often, women neglect themselves in the busyness of life, falling in and out of love with who they are. But when we show up for ourselves—when we dress in a way that honors our truest selves—we activate a power that can’t be ignored. JModish is a place where women can evolve, love themselves deeply, and believe only what God says they are.

A huge part of that journey is through our fashion shows, where we redefine the traditional model. Our models aren’t just the stereotypical runway types—they are nominees who are celebrated for being great influencers in their communities. Each one of them is coached in confidence and is chosen not only for their beauty but for their influence, impact, and authenticity. Our fashion shows are about freedom: walking a path of self-ownership, bold expression, and empowerment. It’s not about conforming to society’s standards; it’s about creating your own.

I believe in the power of personal transformation, and JModish is here to guide women through that journey. Whether it’s through a stunning outfit that makes them feel unstoppable or the encouragement to step into their full confidence, my goal is to help women reclaim their space and their power.

At the end of the day, JModish isn’t just about fashion. It’s about helping others see beyond the surface. Whether it’s styling someone in a way that makes them feel unstoppable or encouraging them to step boldly into their purpose, everything I do is rooted in helping women recognize that they are already enough and worthy of greatness.
My mission is to create a legacy of impact. I don’t just want to be known as a business owner; I want to be remembered as someone who empowered others to dream bigger, walk boldly, and embrace the freedom to be who they truly are. Because when you see yourself clearly, you don’t just exist—you thrive!

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.
My art is more than fashion—it’s transformation. JModish Couture isn’t just about clothing; it’s about confidence, identity, and empowerment. What sets my brand apart is the deeper meaning behind every piece. I believe a woman’s freedom is in her style, and how she shows up for herself is a reflection of how she feels inside. My goal is to help women rediscover their confidence and embrace the greatness that has always been inside them.

I’m most proud of the impact JModish Couture has on the women who wear it. What was just a hobby turned into a boutique, and that boutique turned into a lifestyle. It’s about helping women understand who they are and who they belong to. We are all equipped with purpose—we just need to activate it, and that begins with self-love and self-expression.

But my work doesn’t stop at fashion. Jax of All Tradeique allows me to extend my creativity through custom designs and personalization, helping people bring their unique visions to life. Lastly my soon to surface project iVisionDifferently, Where I challenge people to declutter their thoughts, develop strategies, and embrace the liberating thrill of setting and achieving their goals. Each of my businesses serves a different purpose, but they all have the same mission—to help others see beyond what the eye can see, beyond their circumstances, and into their limitless potential.

This journey hasn’t been easy. Balancing life as a self, mom, wife, social statues and business owner often leaves me in overdrive—mentally overstimulated and emotionally drained. There have been times when I’ve questioned where the next strategy or breakthrough would come from. But I’ve learned to trust God fully, not leaning on my own understanding. I know there are so many women who can relate to that space.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that success isn’t just about talent—it’s about perseverance. It’s about showing up, even when it’s hard, and trusting that your work will make a difference. My businesses were built with the heart to help others see bigger than themselves. Whether you’re shopping with me and confidently expressing yourself through clothes, tapping into creativity through custom art, or strategizing the next big move for your future, my mission is to show you that there is always more than what meets the eye.

My story is still being written, but every step I take is a testament to faith, determination, and purpose.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend came to Houston for a week? Oh, we’d have a time. I’m talkin’ good eats, good laughs, and a perfect mix of chill moments and wild adventures—Houston style.

We’d start off slow with brunch at First Watch—something light, fresh, and delicious to ease into the day. After that, we’d head to Discovery Green just to walk it out, catch a vibe, and tap into the city’s energy. You gotta soak it in before turning all the way up.

Now once we’re recharged, it’s game on. Go-karting downtown is a must—because what’s a bestie trip without a little competitive chaos? And when we’re done laughing at who came in last, we’re switching gears and hitting up Seismique. That place is like walking into another universe. Lights, art, color, vibes—literally an out-of-body creative experience.

At some point in the week, we’re definitely road-tripping to Galveston. Music blasting, windows down, just cruisin’. Once we hit the beach, it’s roller coasters, funnel cakes, local food trucks—pure fun in the sun. It’s giving carefree, it’s giving core memory.

We’d balance all that with a little self-care, of course. A full spa day at Spa World to reset. No rushing, just robes, steam, and relaxation. Then we’re getting cute and heading to Fogo de Chão for dinner—because we deserve luxury, okay? Endless meat and vibes.

Now listen, I love a good street food moment, so we’d hit up Porky’s food truck for some fire eats, then walk The Heights to check out murals, little shops, and whatever random gems we find. It’s all about being in the moment and letting the city guide us.

One night, we’re keeping it cozy with a dinner-and-movie situation at Reel Luxury Cinema. Reclining seats, cocktails, bomb food—it’s giving elevated girls’ night with a side of popcorn.

And to wrap it all up, we’re starting Sunday off at The Life Church Houston. Because after a week like that, it’s only right to close it out in gratitude and peace. Then one last chill night at Quote’s, catching live music and soaking in our last few hours together.

Houston’s got a little bit of everything, and if my bestie’s in town, we’re doing all of it. Good food, good people, and unforgettable moments.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Success is never a solo journey, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without the love, support, and guidance of so many people. First and foremost, I want to give honor to God for being my foundation, my source of strength, and the reason I continue to push forward even when things get tough.

I also want to dedicate this shoutout to my family—my husband Dariante Edwards and littles Jaxon, Dynver and Jerze—who inspire me daily and remind me why I do what I do. Their love, patience, and belief in me fuel my drive to build something meaningful.

To my friends and community, thank you for your encouragement, for seeing my potential even when I didn’t, and for always pushing me to dream bigger.

A special shoutout to the women who have supported JModish Couture—whether as customers, collaborators, or cheerleaders. You are the heart of this brand, and it’s because of you that I continue to create with passion and purpose.

Lastly, to every mentor who has played a role in shaping my journey—Pastor Marcus Whittaker, Coach Adrienne Rowe, Shemekia Preston, and so many others—Thank You. Whether it was a season or a stepping stone, each of you poured into me in a way that helped me grow, evolve, and move forward. I carry those lessons with me, and my hope is to one day pour into others the way you all have poured into me.

Website: https://www.TheJModishCo.com

Instagram: @TheJmodishCo

Facebook: The JModish Co.

Other: Jax of All Tradetique: @JaxofAllTradetique
Personal/iVisionDifferently: @j0riju

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.