Daily Inspiration: Meet Jennifer Arana

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Arana.

Hi Jennifer, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today. 
My journey began at a young age with a deep passion for fashion. I can recall as young as 5 years old wanting to dress myself – mix-matching colors, prints, fabrics, you name it. Fashion and accessories was how I expressed myself and I wanted the world to know it! 

Fast forward to HS, the Los Angeles fashion streetwear became my identity, from the graphic tees, sneakers, tattoos, and music, I lived for this lifestyle. 

Fun fact: I won “sneakerhead” in HS my senior year. 

Shortly after HS, my first job was in retail, and the desire to own a business steamed. Eager to turn my passion into a profession, I created a brand, La Rana, in 2015. The brand consisted of unisex hats and t-shirts with an embroidered lotus logo. 

As the business gained traction, I began to feed into a new realm of creating – Jewelry! Slowly delved into learning about the metals, stones, and overall design/principles of jewelry. Along the way, I invested in building a brand identity, a logo, and, lastly, creating inventory. In April 2021, Shop Lola B was born. I slowly focused on local markets, popups, and showcasing products in local boutiques in Los Angeles. Through a combination of hard work, dedication, and what started as a hobby, to now Shop Lola B is turning 3 this year. Today, I am proud to run a successful Latina business that combines my love for creativity with meeting beautiful customers. I am grateful for the life experience that shaped me into the passionate professional I am today. 

Thank you, 

Jen A Arana 

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Embarking on the business journey wasn’t without its share of challenges. From the initial stages of sourcing material to locating a supplier, the challenges seemed to never stop! One of the most significant struggles was establishing financial flexibility. But of course, with time, I learned to balance and manage the workload. Despite the hurdles, I gained valuable lessons about adaptability, tenacity, and the importance of time management. 

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am most proud of my drive and compassion for others. ‘I want everyone to win – we are all eating at the table’ is one of my quotes to say. Being able to share my compassion with others and allow them to feel how much I love what I do. I don’t only make jewelry… I allow women to express themselves in a way they may have never felt before. The ability to transform and feel pretty by the simple act of adorning yourself with a piece of jewelry. It’s not only uplifting yourself but those around you. 

I’d say my sense of fashion is what sets me aside from others. Not only because I can put a killer outfit together but in the matter of being able to express myself with colors and the motions of fabrics. It’s a gift and I’m here to share it with you ALL! 

Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
MY CUSTOMERS! Without the support, I would not be where I am today. Despite all the trials and struggles, the best reward is seeing my customers wear their Jewelry. 

Lastly, my family and friends. In one of my first-ever collections, they bought out entire inventory. A huge shout out to my sister Andy and my boyfriend Asah, my crew for all events and markets. By far the best! There are no words to express how much I appreciate them. 

Thank you everyone for all the support and love! I can’t thank you enough. 

Much love, 

Jen A Arana 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.SHOPLOLAB.US
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stories/shop.lola.b/3312278314806137390/

Image Credits
Ashley D Castro