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

Hi Jen, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
When it comes to risks… there are very few of them that I won’t take. I always think that if it goes wrong then I’ll learn what not to do but if it goes right there can be massive opportunities at the other end. There really would not be a JenCraftsEvents without risks.

I took a chance when I had lost my job and said this is the moment. I stopped looking for other jobs and dove in head first into a full time planner for my business. I would work tirelessly till any time to learn more and be better prepared to take on clients.

I never looked back. It’s the best risk I ever took.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I have always been an artsy and creative person.

I have to say I am extremely proud of having our own studio location in the Miami Merchandise Mart! We really outgrew our home office/studio and are blessed to have a space our business can call home. It took so much work and its a constant work in progress but all the best things in life are.

Professionally, it took guts. I was on my own with no one to teach me or even offer a helping hand in the industry. I was 20 and fearless and took it head on. I would love to say it was easy but then I would be lying. One of the biggest challenges was being so young and trusted by others. I would always get the “you’re just a kid” comment. This “kid” knew she could handle the challenge and loved proving others wrong (still do). Building a portfolio took a lot of work because people were hesitant to hire someone who said they could do it but didn’t have much to show for it. I am beyond grateful to all those that did trust me and really opened the door for me to get where I am today.

My story is very similar to a lot of creatives. We took a chance and found our calling. I pushed through every hurdle and always found a way to see the light at the end of the tunnel. I am constantly learning and figuring out new ways to work better within myself, for my team and for my clients.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
One week in Miami… there is so much to do!! However, I am a bit more laid back and love to do things that aren’t rushed.

Go to chill places:
-Frost Museum
-Vizcaya
-Pinecrest Gardens
-Beach day at south beach
-Superblue
-Drive down to the keys

Go to Restaurants:
-Monty’s
-SIM sushi and tapas by sunset place – they have the BEST bang bang shrimp ever!
-Seasons 52 on miracle mile
-Dolce Italian in Miami Beach
-Pubbelly
-Moloco

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?
Definitely my mom and husband. I would have never been able to take the leap without them.

My husband took on 100% of our living expenses when I lost my job so that I could be full dedicated to building the business. My mom would work till whatever hour with me to help me prepare events and designs as well.

Without them, I wouldn’t be here. Till this day they are the biggest support I have before, during and after events.

Website: www.jencraftsevents.com

Instagram: @jencraftsevents

Image Credits
De La Rosa Weddings Shoot with Sabrina JenCraftsEvents

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