Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Hobaica.
Jennifer, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
After 10+ years working as a Costume Designer and the birth of my son, Jesse, I realized that the hours in the entertainment industry were not conducive to being a “hands on” mom. At this point, I made the decision to stay at home to raise my son. A couple of years later, my second son, Riley, was born. While I loved being a mom, I realized I needed something that was separate from parenting which would allow me to express my creativity. From my dining room table, I created Olive U.
What started as a collection of baby clothing soon included a full line of women’s and children’s clothing too. After Cindy Crawford was pictured in People magazine wearing one of our hoodies, everyone wanted to wear Olive U.
Then, came The WARM ME… Although similar products existed, we upgraded the WARM ME to the highest quality with luxe fabrics and a filling that retained the heat for a longer period of time. Our heated pillows became a favorite for our customers because of the comfort they provided.
Our newest product, TOKENS, launched in 2022 and the response has been overwhelming. Our buttery soft suede pouches are filled with miniatures & meaning which celebrate life’s moments and special relationships. They are a hit!
Attention to detail, an eye for style and overall obsession with fabric & color are at the core of everything we create. It is incredibly fulfilling to know that products we create provide comfort, connection and happiness.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
About 5 years in, our supplier discontinued the most popular color in our best-selling garment. To continue to sell this garment, we ended up having to order 5,000 pieces, which was a huge order for us. We sold a ton of it but did end up donating a good amount to a shelter.
Currently, one of the biggest challenges we are facing is getting used to social media. With all the research we’ve done, we have learned that customers not only want to know who is behind a product, they also want to be able to relate to you. Personally, I’ve always been very private but made the decision to put myself out there. At first, it was daunting, but the positive and encouraging feedback we have received has made it so much easier. Although, I still get a bit embarrassed when someone tells me they watched one of my videos!
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
We create products that are timeless. We don’t do trendy, meaning our current line of products will still be relevant 20 years from now. Our materials are of the highest quality and are sourced from all over the world. Several of our TOKENS are made in Europe, which is where we discovered artists that created exactly what we were looking for. We want every customer to feel like they are the most important customer. Whether that’s through receiving a handwritten thank you note, remembering your name and where we first met, or sitting down to have a cup of tea with us when you come to shop, it’s really important to us. I have made meaningful connections over the years and many customers have become my friends.
We are definitely known for our “Peace” clothing, which was part of our original collection. Many years later, people are still wearing & loving them. Recently a customer sent photos of her daughter (who was five when I met her) wearing her mom’s Olive U sweats.
I am most proud of our newest product -TOKENS. The idea behind TOKENS is to bring people together to celebrate connection. The biggest difference with this product from all our others is: this is the first product we have created that is a gift, it’s not something you’d buy for yourself. TOKENS are fun & heartfelt, meaningful & personal. The stories I’ve heard from the recipients of TOKENS are heartwarming. For example, a woman who was recently diagnosed with breast cancer received TOKENS of Support from a friend and was incredibly touched by the message inside. Overall, TOKENS makes people smile.
What makes Olive U different is that everything is designed to invoke a “feel good” feeling. Whether it’s the way you feel when you wear our clothing or the way our fabrics feel when you touch them. It’s the comfort you get from the heat of a WARM ME or the emotional connection you get from TOKENS.
We attribute Olive U’s success to staying true to our three core elements: creating timeless products, using the highest quality materials and providing a personalized customer experience.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
Hard work, drive & determination is what has brought Olive U to where it is today. The Roman philosopher, Seneca, said, “Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.” Sure, there have been incredible opportunities along the way, but would they have presented themselves if we didn’t have the “Never give up” work ethic and attitude?
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.oliveu.com
- Instagram: @oliveulosangeles
- Facebook: oliveulosangeles
