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

Hi Jen, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I’ve been making art for as long as I can remember. I used to sit at a tiny table in the kitchen and draw with pastels, chalk, or whatever my grandfather handed me during our summer visits. Some of my fondest memories are making art – from my dance class to the last piece of art my grandfather and I made together, to singing to my grandmother in the ICU.

What should our readers know about your business?
I started The Geek Forge in 2011 as a creative outlet, which was missing from my life at the time. It’s grown into a business I am proud to put my name on. I handmake almost everything, and share my techniques and mistakes. Especially in my corner of the internet, I think it’s really important for folks to know it’s not always perfect the first time (even with almost 20 years of experience under my belt!) and it’s okay for something to not work out and for you to try it from a different approach.

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.
Infinite Realities Comics is a great spot in Tucker for comics and games. Ford’s BBQ in downtown Tucker if you have a need for some good Southern cuisine. Heading into downtown Atlanta is a must, visiting places like the Aquarium, CocaCola museum and the High Art Museum. The Botanical Gardens are a great outdoor activity, any time of year.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My parents always encouraged me to try new things and find what I liked. My mom encouraged me to study art, music and theatre in college, and has supported me in all my artistic endeavors throughout the years.

Website: https://www.thegeekforge.org

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geekforge

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/thegeekforge

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegeekforge

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ThegeekforgeOrg

Other: Etsy – https://thegeekforge.etsy.com Twitch – https://twitch.tv/thegeekforge

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlana is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.