Meet Jackie Jackson

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jackie Jackson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jackie, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting my own business came from a combination of passion, vision, and a desire for freedom. I realized that I wanted to create something that reflected my values and creativity, rather than just working to build someone else’s dream. I saw a gap in the market—something I knew people needed or would love—and I felt confident I could fill it in a unique and meaningful way.

At the same time, I wanted to build something that could grow beyond me—a legacy. I asked myself: What am I passionate about? What do I want my day-to-day to look like? What kind of impact do I want to make? Those questions helped guide me from idea to action. And while it’s not always easy, the freedom to build something on your own terms is worth every challenge.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Blanca Fragrance Factory is more than just a perfume brand — it’s a full experience centered around creativity, self-expression, and luxury. We specialize in helping people create their own signature fragrance from scratch, right in our beautiful, sensory-filled studio. From the moment someone walks into Blanca, they’re invited into a world where scent becomes personal, memories are bottled, and individuality is celebrated.

What truly sets us apart is the interactive nature of our business. This isn’t just a store where you buy perfume off a shelf — it’s a place where you make it. Guests get to learn about notes, build their own blend, and walk away with something that is uniquely theirs. It’s empowering, it’s emotional, and it’s unforgettable.

Getting to this point hasn’t been easy. Building a brand from the ground up requires resilience, faith, and a strong vision. There were financial hurdles, emotional burnout, and moments where I questioned everything. But my passion kept me going — and so did the people around me, especially my husband, who supported me every single step of the way.

I’m proud of how far Blanca has come, and even more excited about where we’re going. Opening our new location in Coral Gables feels like a dream coming true — a sign that hard work, consistency, and authenticity really do pay off.

Some of the biggest lessons I’ve learned:
• Trust your gut — your vision matters.
• Build a team that believes in the brand.
• Stay patient — everything meaningful takes time.
• And most importantly, never forget why you started.

I want the world to know that Blanca is a space created with love and intention. It’s a reminder that you are worthy of something that is one-of-a-kind, just like you. My story is still unfolding, but if it can inspire someone to keep going, then every challenge I’ve faced has been worth it.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Day 1: Welcome to the Gables

Check-In: Hotel Colonnade Coral Gables – classic, glamorous, and centrally located.
Dinner: Orno – chef-driven wood-fired dishes with a stylish ambiance.
Evening: Walk along Miracle Mile to soak in the city lights, boutiques, and local charm.

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Day 2: Culture & Cafecito

Breakfast: Café Grumpy or classic Cuban at Tinta y Café.
Morning: Explore Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden – stunning greenery, butterflies, and serenity.
Lunch: Hillstone – chic waterfront lunch in nearby Coral Gables Waterway.
Afternoon: Stop by the Coral Gables Museum for local art and architecture.
Dinner: Pascal’s on Ponce – elevated French cuisine with an intimate vibe.
Evening Drinks: Bellmónt Spanish Restaurant – live flamenco on select nights!

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Day 3: Fragrance & Self-Care Day

Late Breakfast: Threefold Café – cozy, Aussie-inspired brunch.
Midday: Blanca Fragrance Factory – your best friend gets to create their own signature scent in our Coral Gables location. Personal, luxurious, and totally one-of-a-kind.

Lunch: Light bites at Green Gables Café
Afternoon Spa: The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove Spa – pure relaxation.
Dinner: Ariete – modern American with Miami edge.
Evening: Walk or sit by the Venetian Pool under the moonlight — it’s magical.

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Day 4: Day Trip to the Keys or Wynwood

Option 1: Drive down to Key Largo (about 1 hr) for beachside drinks & fresh seafood at Lazy Lobster.
Option 2: Spend the day in Wynwood exploring murals, art galleries, and shops.
• Lunch in Wynwood: Coyo Taco or Mandolin Aegean Bistro.
• Wynwood Walls: Iconic Instagram-worthy street art.
Dinner Back in Coral Gables: Zucca – chic Italian with impeccable service.

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Day 5: Classic Miami Glam

Morning: Brunch at Biltmore Hotel – old-school glamor and endless mimosas.
Midday: Lounge by the iconic Biltmore Pool or book a cabana.
Afternoon: Shopping at Shops at Merrick Park – high-end retail and lush landscaping.
Dinner: Café Abbracci – fine Italian with local legend status.
Evening: Jazz or wine bar vibes at The Globe.

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Day 6: Latin Beats & Coconut Grove

Breakfast: Pani – dreamy decor and delicious bites.
Explore: Coconut Grove – local shops, The Barnacle Historic State Park, and marina views.
Lunch: Glass & Vine – outdoor garden dining with tropical cocktails.
Afternoon: Take a boat tour from Dinner Key Marina.
Dinner: Chug’s Diner – Cuban-American fusion with flavor and flair.
Evening: Latin dancing or cocktails at Ball & Chain in Little Havana.

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Day 7: Farewell with a Splash

Brunch: Sweet Blendz or Bachour – artful pastries and coffee.
Stroll: Down Miracle Mile one last time for boutique shopping.
Final Toast: Rooftop drinks at Mamey on 3rd – tropical, chill, and perfect to say goodbye.

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Coral Gables Vibe:

Elegant, culturally rich, and effortlessly beautiful. It’s where old-world Miami meets modern magic, and your guest will leave inspired, refreshed, and wishing they had more time.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to dedicate this shoutout to my husband — the backbone of my journey and the one who’s been there for me in every single step and in every way possible. His unwavering support, love, and belief in me have made all the difference. Without him, none of this would have been possible. From the late nights, the heavy lifts (both literally and emotionally), and the constant encouragement, he’s been my partner in every sense of the word. This isn’t just my success — it’s ours.

Website: Blanca fragrance factory.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blancafragrancefactory?igsh=MXIzN2s2czd0OHRsag%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Facebook: Blanca fragrance factory

Image Credits
Justin Sullivan