Meet Jordandene x Sartorial Geek: Burdened with Glorious Fashion

I’m thrilled to introduce you to Jordandene (and Sartorial Geek)! Jordan Ellis is burdened with glorious fashion, vibes, and exciting information for you!

How did you decide to start your creative business? 

I actually started my business as sort of an accident! After I graduated, I was working a part-time nannying job that wasn’t using enough of my creative brainpower. A friend suggested experimenting with opening an Etsy shop, and that decision took me places I couldn’t even imagine. My Etsy shop grew into a full website, which turned into selling at in-person events across the country, which expanded into a media company, including a podcast and published magazine!

When did you come up with the idea? How was it first received in your environment? 

The first version of my business began back in 2011. Because I had never taken a business class when I decided to get started, the main piece I was missing at first was finding my community of customers. Once I leaned into my niche and started reaching the right people, my business started growing!

Who are your big inspirations/ influencers in life?

I am so motivated by the women who paved the way for people like me to have a successful business. One of my biggest inspirations is Kelly Sue DeConnick, who is an incredible comic book writer and editor (specifically of one of my favorite Captain Marvel stories). She gives so much back to the community, and I am so grateful for every time I’ve had the chance to speak with her.

What would you say is the top challenge for warm-hearted and so inspiring creatives like you in this economic environment?

One of the top challenges I’ve faced is knowing when to say yes, say no, or pivot. I tend to default say yes to most things, and as anyone who can relate to that knows, it’s a clear path to burnout. It can be so hard to say no or pivot away from an idea that isn’t working on trying something new, but I think those are two very necessary skills to surviving as a business owner.

What obstacles have made you grow your business a lot?

One of the biggest obstacles I’ve had to work with is time management. While running your own business, there is no shortage of projects or things to be done at any given time. While running a business on the side while also working a full-time job, keeping yourself and your time organized is key. I am absolutely not perfect at this still, but I’ve gotten a lot better at managing what I actually have the capacity for and paying attention to when I am becoming overwhelmed.

What inspirational words would you say to someone who would like to follow in your steps?

My favorite words of advice are that done is better than perfect. It’s so easy to put off actually releasing/publishing/saying yes to the thing you really want to do because you don’t think it’s good enough yet. So many cool ideas never reach the people who need them because they never actually happen, so just do your best and take that first step!

Where to find her!

Jordandene NYC @jordandenenyc for her fandom fashion

Sartorial Geek @sartorialgeek

@jordandeneellis for her Adobe Express work