We had the good fortune of connecting with Jackie Annette and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Jackie, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Becoming a fashion designer was something that I believe I was created to do. It is easy for me, and it is a place where I am the most conformable. But it isn’t the only artistic skill I have. I love sketching and painting, or even decorating. Growing up, I didn’t have that “role model” of inspiration; I just knew I wanted to do something I loved and make money doing it! I didn’t realize that fashion was for me until 11th grade. I just took a class and realized that sewing and cutting patterns came naturally. I pursued a creative career because it was who I was meant to be, and it was the thing that made me happy no matter how much money I was making!Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
When I think back on my career so far, I don’t feel like I have achieved much until I tell someone the things I’ve done. I am most proud of the project working with Tamela Mann and creating her first launch of her “Tamela Mann Collection.” Never in a million years would I have thought of working with someone who is so inspirational and have such a beautiful spirit such as hers. Although I am no longer working on this project, I feel proud to have had the opportunity. Getting to where I am hasn’t been easy. I was let go from my first real career job, and I worked small jobs to make money to support my family. I failed in my first business and struggling to keep the second one alive. I am learning new things about myself and life every day. The way I overcame these challenges is to have patience! Patience is your best friend, along with working hard and staying true to yourself. I have to remind myself that “it is okay, I will get there one day.”
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The first thing I would do is take them to my favorite taco place “Emelia’s” in The Colony! I LOVE their food!! Then we will hit up the Dallas Market Center to shop at some small cool business. After that Deep Elm and the Art District is the place for good food and music!
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?
Honestly, the only person I could dedicate to my success so far in this world is my partner Gregory! He has been supporting me throughout my whole career. He has been the one telling me to follow my dreams and do what makes me happy. No matter the cost and sacrifice, he was willing to lay down and sacrifice it for me to grow as a person and designer. It is like a true love story of one giving up something for the other to succeed!
Website: https://jackieannette.wixsite.com/jackieannette
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jackie_annette/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JackieAnnetteBeauty
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVZBtSxYZdEKY0KT4OywzXw
Other: https://www.instagram.com/designs_by_jackie_annette/