Meet Jennifer Johnson | Laser File Designer

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

Hi Jennifer, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I was initially skeptical about starting my own business at the very beginning. I worried that no one would buy my artwork. I took a risk and posted my first design online in some likeminded Facebook groups and I got wonderful feedback. I took a risk and continued designing more and more SVG laser files and suddenly I was being recognized by laser companies for my creativity. One of my designs was featured in an advertisement and then I was asked to be a designer for Glowforge. I have always wanted to be an artist my entire life and I feel as though this risk I took was what I needed to help me achieve my goal.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I have been drawing since I was little. I took a lot of classes in high school and then went on to take more courses in college. I used art as a way of relaxing and calming after a long day. I also majored in speech language pathology so my days in college were filled with challenging courses. I never stopped drawing even after graduating and I knew someday I would be an artist. I eventually learned graphic design and used a mix of my drawings and computer skills to create laser vector files to make 3d designs of my art. It was amazing seeing my drawing come to life.

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 love Downtown Aiken. The small businesses and the local restaurants are a treat. I love supporting small businesses. Visiting South Boundary and viewing the trees is one of the places I take my friends and then grabbing a dessert at the pastry shop nearby.

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?
My father was always my biggest supporter. He encouraged me to pursue my art and continue growing in my skills. He would sit next to me and watch me draw for hours and we would talk about where I got my inspiration and what I wanted to make next. He told me he was proud everyday. He passed away in January of this year and I know he’s still looking down watching me draw. I feel him next to me everyday.

Website: https://winetopia.etsy.com/

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/sugarpiehoneybun77

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/313542606438023/

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@JenniferJohnson-vg8jr?si=zVGHPjOxFpa4gUtj