Meet Jasmen Welch | Creative Director, Serial Entrepreneur & Business Coach

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

Hi Jasmen, maybe we can start at the very start – the idea – how did you come up with the idea for your business?
I always knew I would live a life with multiple incomes. Growing up I dreamed of being apart of so many industries. I branded myself under Jazz Beautiful Hair the cosmetologist for 6 years and grew to hate the box it put me in. I just knew I was way more then that. I was stuck between 3 different industries. Social event planning, cosmetology and business coaching. When Covid hit, amongst other things, I really was lost in which career I should focus more on. I mostly felt alone and without a community that truly understood my entrepreneurial journey. I remember discussing this feeling with my therapist and she supported me to focus in and make it make since. I realized what I was missing out on I can create for myself. A space for creatives, entrepreneurs and business professionals to gather and feel supported. The Creative Space Studio was really a place I needed. Somewhere I can wear different hats and maximize my creativity. This is how I came up with the position of Creative Director at The Creative Space Studio. A real life 1 stop location. The Creative Space Studio has a salon, event space rental catered to entrepreneurs, membership clubs, educational courses, thrift boutique, and business coaching services.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I am a serial entrepreneur that is branded under Jazz Beautiful. I own The Creative Space Studio which consists of a salon, event space, boutique, creative hub, and business consulting firm. What sets my business apart from other businesses is my professionalism, customer service, efficiency, and creativity. In my business I’m mostly proud of having a physical location that has housed so many small businesses. With our rental space we have supported business owners like authors, therapist, pitch programs coordinators, event curators, Financial coaches, spoken word artist, yoga instructors, and more.

I got to where I am today business wise with my belief in God first, the support of my family, and also my drive and passion. My road was not easy. A lot of times I thought about just sticking with a 9-5 job. I learned how to be a problem solver. Entrepreneurship comes with just as many downs as ups. I taught myself how to create goals, and more importantly how to be a doer. I learned how to deal with challenges in business by working for large corporations. I was observant in every 9-5 job I have ever had. I took notes, learned, and applied big business tactics to my small business.

The biggest lessons I learned so far in my entrepreneurial journey is that just because it’s a good plan, it does not mean it’s permanent. Sometimes we have to adjust, compromise, or even pivot. I also learned that if something is for you that It shouldn’t feel like a struggle to have. It took me over a year to find my current business location. I signed two commercial leases prior. I even came up with the interior design for one of those locations just for them to tell me the design was so nice that they have to charge me more because now they see the potential of the store front. I did not give into the up charge after waiting 6 months for a move in date. I just kept looking and was blessed to find my current storefront for a more affordable rate, larger square feet, and in a heavy traffic area. When I applied for this store front I was approved in 3 days and started moving in within the same week. What is meant for you takes hard work but should never feel like a struggle.

I want the world to know that a lot of entrepreneurs & creatives are fighting a mental and physical battle with them selves on most days. We are fighting for fulfillment, originality, happiness, and for personal success. So when you see us don’t “how’s your little business” or “get a real job” us. Understand that are dreams are attainable, we’re hardworking and that to be encouraging doesn’t cost you anything!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Chicago has a lot of great spots. My go to thing is to go out to eat or got to brunch with friends. We would check out Pilsen for Mexican food. El mezcal for food and 5 rabbinnitos for margaritas to go. Restaurant row is a great spot for Sandwiches and pizza. We could go to Nandos, Nonna’s, Nacys, jubilee for smoothies, and jennis for ice cream. I love loud music and bottomless brunch. So I would take my friend to the best brunch party in CHICAGO…. Fremont. Most events I go to I find on eventbrite or do312. A lot of them are located at promontory or private event spaces around the city.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to dedicate this shoutout to people that constantly encourage the youth to go after there dreams. My encouragement at that age was my grandmother Ruby. She was a believer. She believed in me and my dreams so much that it really forced me to chase them head on. We all need that type of person in our corner as an entrepreneur.

Website: Jazzbeautiful.net

Instagram: @Jazz.Beautiful

Facebook: Jasmen Welch

Youtube: JazzBeautiful

Other: Thrift Boutique IG : @WNFThrift Event space IG: @TheCreativeSpaceStudio