Today we’d like to introduce you to Jen Haran.
Hi Jen, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
By day, I’m a 20 year tech executive, and by night, I’m a founder. I’ve always had a desire to build and create, which was sparked by growing up in a family business. When my son was born 13 years ago, I saw a gap: the need for high-quality, simple kids’ basics. That’s where the Yard & Strand story began.
Launching our own brand was a three-year marathon of design, setbacks, and constant evolution. We learned firsthand the dedication it takes to find the right partners, the perfect materials, and to refine designs through countless iterations. It was through this process that we developed a deep respect for the artisans and the passion behind their craft. We launched our kids’ ‘classics’ line in 2019, but our journey didn’t stop there.
It led us to create an artisan mercantile, a space where we could support other small brands crafting exceptional goods with incredible stories. ‘Yard’ represents my Midwest roots, the fourth-generation family lumberyard that instilled values like hard work and passion. ‘Strand’ symbolizes our present, our move to the LA beach, and our continued pursuit of this dream.
Balancing a full-time executive career, motherhood, and entrepreneurship is, as you would expect, not easy. People often ask how I manage it all. The truth is, there’s no perfect balance. It takes a strong support system and a lot of grace. My focus is on consistent forward motion, celebrating every milestone, big or small. We live by our mantra: ‘To the journey!’
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Some days are smoother than others, but every moment is an opportunity to grow. One of the biggest hurdles was simply diving into the unknown. When Yard & Strand began, design, procurement, and manufacturing were things I knew nothing about. We spent significant time navigating those short-comings, finding the right partners, and embracing the risks inherent in learning. All this requires a willingness to step outside your comfort zone that builds confidence and fuels progress.
Expanding into an artisan marketplace presented different challenges. Sourcing goods, thoughtful merchandising, and developing a content strategy for retail, were all things I did not have experience in. Again, learning and willingness to put yourself out there were key. Now, we have a distinct brand aesthetic, a clear vision for our curated goods, and a more strategic approach to serving our community and nurturing customer relationships that I am proud of and continue to invest in.
Of course, the entrepreneurial juggling act is a constant struggle. Time is always a precious commodity, and the to-do list is perpetually long. However, I’ve learned the power of focused progress and thoughtful prioritization.
Ultimately, the most rewarding aspect of these struggles is the growth they’ve fostered. And for me, sharing this journey with my kids is invaluable. They witness firsthand that dreams aren’t always seamless, but that passion, a spark, and a willingness to work hard and take risks can help your dreams come true.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Yard & Strand is a carefully curated marketplace and boutique, driven by a passion for championing small businesses and brands. We’re incredibly proud of the talented founders we work with – many, like us, started with a dream. What truly sets us apart is our dedication to showcasing goods crafted with heart and intention. We aim for Yard & Strand to be your destination for unique finds, from handcrafted items, to curated collections, to one-of-a-kind vintage pieces; a mix that reflects my own eclectic style.
More than just a shop, we’re building a community that values intentional energy, conscious living and thoughtful giving. We believe in slowing down, appreciating the stories behind each product, and investing in brands that align with those values. I cherish when I have the opportunity to meet our founders and when our customers share their purchases and the stories behind them. I’m always on the hunt for what’s new (or old), driven by a constant desire to discover inspiring brands and source new vintage pieces.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The most important lesson I’ve learned on this journey is the power of consistent forward motion. It’s impossible to perfectly balance everything, and progress rarely happens as quickly as we’d like. Some weeks are a masterclass in juggling, others feel like I’ve found space to really invest and get things done. Learning to grant myself grace and simply keep moving forward has been invaluable. My best advice to anyone who has an idea, just start, now is the time.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.yardandstrand.com
- Instagram: @yardandstrand
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/yardandstrand
- Other: Pinterest: pinterest.com/yardandstrand
Image Credits
Erinn Streit
