Today we’d like to introduce you to Jen Gensler.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I am blessed to have three beautiful daughters. Which means I am also “blessed” with their opinions on all things fashion related. From the time they were small – they had their quirks with not wanting to wear certain things. The concept of a camp required tee was the Bain of our existence. Every Friday they were required to wear a simple white tee so that they could be easily spotted on field trips. It was your basic boxy, boring cotton tee.
To make a VERY long story short – we began cutting, beading, sewing, and embellishing the tee shirts so that they were actually excited to wear them. Their friends began asking for them and thus the concept of Me to You/Tee 2 You was born. So as usual – I have my girls to thank for getting me started on this journey.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The road HAS been relatively smooth. I still wake up every day excited to get to work. I go to bed every night thinking of new ideas. Its a constant work in progress so any challenges that come my way, only motivate me to push through. I would say the biggest struggle is trying to stay ahead of the times. You always have to be one step ahead or you will fall ten steps behind.
Tee 2 You – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Tee 2 You is a clothing and accessory line. Every single piece is handmade. No two items are exactly the same and EVERYTHING can be customized. My hats are now my best selling item. I create each patch and hand sew them on to a wide variety of hat “blanks”. So it really does allow my customers to pick and choose exactly what they want. I am most proud of the customization aspect. So while you may see people wearing hats by Tee 2 You – you won’t often see two of the same. I love that.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
I think success is loving what you do. Being able to profit from it is just the icing on the cake. I would go crazy if I couldn’t do something creative each day. I am so fortunate to have a community of clientele who support me. I am also in very good company with so many other small businesses trying to succeed. We all help each other in any way we can. That is so important.
Pricing:
- Custom Hats $28-$32 (wholesale pricing available)
- Custom Flannels, Sweatshirts etc. $65 and up
Contact Info:
- Website: www.tee2you.strikingly.com
- Phone: 847-239-2302
- Email: jen@tee2you.com
- Instagram: tee2yougens
- Facebook: Tee 2 You
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
