Meet Jennifer Medina | Interior Decorator, DIYer and Thrifter

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

Hi Jennifer, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Starting my business kind of just happened the way the universe wanted it to happen. My intention was to start off working underneath another designer/decorator and work my way up. I didn’t go to school for interior design. I am mostly self taught but took a few Continuing Education courses at Emory for interior decorating.

Initially, my plan was to find a mentor, whom could guide me into starting my own business. However, after designing my friend’s bedroom and bathroom (only my second project) and sharing pictures on Instagram, I received a lot of attention and people asked for my services. I was not prepared for that at all! I was thrilled that people actually liked my work but a little taken aback as I had no business plan in the making. That reaction to my work, lit the fire and gave me the confidence that I needed to jump the gun and start my own decorating business.

I knew I wanted to incorporate my love of thrifting, budget friendly design and simple DIY’s. I love reusing items by making them more beautiful, along with adding my own little fun touch to my client’s homes.

So here I am, over a year later (in your local thrift store) making homes into oases. MiCasaByJenn is still blossoming into all her glory and I am beyond thrilled to step into this world of entrepreneurship.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Incorporating my thrift gems (whether from your local thrift store, an antique store or good old Facebook Marketplace) is so important to me. I love to incorporate sustainability and upcycling into every project. The phrase “reduce, reuse, recycle” is a guideline that I strive to maintain in my day-to-day life and also my work.
Baby steps, that’s how I have gotten to where I am today. I had no idea what I was doing when I decided to finally start creating MiCasaByJenn. To think of operating a whole business was overwhelming. At times I questioned whether I was good enough (that imposter syndrome talking to me)! The struggles will always be there, and I will always over come them one way or another. So I just take it one step at a time and I continuously reflect on where I started because it reminds me of what I am completely capable of. I love doing this and changing peoples homes. Their reaction and how they feel after an install is important to me as I want them to enjoy and find comfort in their revitalized spaces.

I have been learning many lessons along the way. There are many takeaways after each project has been completed that help mold my vision and make me a better entrepreneur, decorator, planner, organizer and even, person.

I just want the world to know that my work is my passion. The projects I take on make me feel alive. I want to impact as many homes and families as possible. Loving every single moment of the process, from the initial consultation, to rejoicing in my client’s reactions is what gets me up in the morning and excited to see where I’m headed.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Of course we all know the Atlanta Beltline is on everyone’s list including mine. I love stopping by Muchachos in Reynoldstown to grab a coffee on their chill outdoor patio or a drink in their retro bar. While in that area we would visit Wonderkid for a bite to eat (recommend the Eggs in Hell). Their 70’s theme is great for that selfie you’re looking for, while in Atlanta. If we’re lucky we can catch a comedy show on a Thursday in their Rainbow Room.

Little Five Points has some fun stores to go shopping in. Of course, check out some of the fun thrift stores! You can never go wrong with eating and having a mystery shot at The Vortex.

We have to check out my new favorite spot, Westside Market in Midtown, to shop through their assortment of decor, clothing, jewelry and so many more booths of fun finds. Then get some drinks and food at Bold Monk Brewing. They even have an amazing library/coffee house upstairs!

Finally, take a stroll through The Botanical Gardens as they have many beautiful, lively plants and flowers to take in!

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?
I truly couldn’t have made it this far without the support and encouragement of my friends, family and partner. I have also shadowed a couple local interior Designers that have helped with any questions I may have and showing me some new tricks. And lastly my Dad, he has taught me so much about handy work and has passed down several of his tools that I cherish so much!

Website: www.micasabyjenn.com

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