We had the good fortune of connecting with Jenn Weeks and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Jenn, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
Comedy is serious business. It is WORK! The majority of stand up comedians don’t just get on stage and spout out whatever is in their head at the moment. While there is a time and place for that, comics actually have a set (jokes). We write. We edit. We perform the joke. We go back to the table and fine tune the joke. We work on our craft. The finished product takes time to perfect.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a standup comedian. What sets me apart from other comics is realizing that there is only one Jenn and every time I hit that stage you are going to get Jenn! This is not an easy craft and while there are challenges, I’ve learned to DO IT AFRAID! There have been shows I’ve been scared to do, festivals I’ve been scared to enter, chances I’ve been afraid to take, but over the years I’ve pushed through the fear and went for whatever opportunity that presented itself. I figure the worst that can happen is that it doesn’t happen, but it’s not for lack of trying. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that your professionalism plays a major role. Before you get on stage to perform, club owners and bookers look to see if you are timely, professional and if you’re good to work with. Good and bad news travels fast so be sure to present yourself in the best possible light. What I want you to know about me is that I’m just a girl that found her purpose and is pursuing it passionately….and loving 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?
I’m actually quite the introvert and pretty boring but…. Pre-Pandemic Itinerary
Sunday – Citadel Church of Jax, followed by lunch at Mad O Seafood ( the oxtails and beef patties are to die for)
Monday – Beach Day….find a cozy spot in Ormond Beach to chat, people watch, relax
Tuesday – check out Authors & Arts, presented by Blue Skies Foundations
Wednesday – Art Walk (if it’s the first Wed of the month)….filled with art, dance, music, song, poetry and everything in between
Thursday – hopefully they have another friend in town they can visit so I can have some me time…..entertaining can be stressful lol
Friday – Two Saints Rest & Grill for food and entertainment (if it’s a 4th Friday it’s Clean Cut Comedy, hosted by me)
Saturday – flea market, produce market, self-care facials, foot soaks and wine, at home movie night with homemade ramen bowls seasoned with Toni’s Touch seasonings
Whew….I’m exhausted!
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There is not enough space or time to shout out each person that has impacted me. I am on an amazing journey and I’ve learned to enjoy each unique experience. To every person that has spoke life into me, encouraged me, laughed at a joke, come to a show, referred me, and supported me in any way…THANK YOU! To every fellow comedian I’ve worked with, booked, that has booked me, offered advice and suggestions, answered questions I’ve had, that has put my name in circles that presented new opportunities…THANK YOU! To Arthur & Sharon Jenkins, (Two Saints Restaurant & Grill, Jacksonville, FL) thank you for believing in me and allowing me a space to share my gift. To Bishop Terry Hill (The Powerup with Pastor Terry) and Chris Epps (Chris Epps Presents), thank you for allowing me to showcase my talents on your radio shows. To every comedy club that has booked me, for every stage I have graced, I’m thankful. To my family, thank you for the love, laughs, material and safe space to just be Jenn. To my circle, small but powerful, I appreciate you guys for the roles you play….encourager, pre-show hype person, cheerleader, driver, passenger, brain stormer and the ones to keep me in check. And I absolutely have to shout out God, for entrusting me with this incredible gift, because none of this would be possible without Him.
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Image Credits
Professional headshots by ERIDEN IMAGES