Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Jenkins.
Hi Jennifer, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I am a violinist that provides entertainment for weddings, private parties, and corporate events. While I service the entire DMV (and beyond), Baltimore has made a huge impact on the success of my business. Inner Harbor serves as a host location for many events, and I am fortunate to be continuously requested for performances at the many beautiful hotels and venues in the Baltimore area.
I was born and raised in Detroit, MI – which would explain my love for music. After all, we are “Motown”. After attending college at Hampton University (Hampton, VA) I relocated to the DMV area. Since moving here, I am thankful for the support of my past clients and event planning friends. Word-of-mouth has been my primary source for obtaining new clients. I have spent little to none on advertising in over 10 years.
Baltimore is also near and dear to my heart because I spent a few years of my corporate life working for an accounting firm that was located near Inner Harbor.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Starting a business is never easy. I have the honor of holding an accounting degree from Hampton University (Hampton, VA) and an MBA from The George Washington University (DC). Even with my business background, there was much to learn first-hand from being an entrepreneur. Some struggles that I faced early on include not knowing how to price my services, lack of systems and processes, and burnout from overcommitting.
Over time, you learn what works best for you. It also helps to make friends in your industry. There’s room for all of us, and we can all learn from each other if we take the time to have conversations around being successful business owners.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a classically trained violinist, but I am most known (and booked) for my R&B and hip-hop renditions of popular songs. More than just playing the music, I strive to build connections with my audience. I believe my charismatic demeanor sets me apart from others. A lot of times, once clients book me, we are “locked in” for life. I’ve done repeat performances for corporate organizations. I’ve also done full-cycle events for my private clients: what may have originally been a booking for a birthday party now turns into me performing at their engagement parties, weddings, and later baby showers! It’s truly a pleasure to build such long-tenured relationships with those that support me.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
My favorite childhood memory is having jam sessions when I was home alone. I’d spend many hours with my violin or at the piano, not only practicing songs but writing them too.
Pricing:
- Pricing begins at $500
Contact Info:
- Website: www.jenviolin.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/iamjenviolin
- Facebook: facebook.com/jenviolin
- Twitter: twitter.com/iamjenviolin
- Youtube: youtube.com/jenviolin
Image Credits
B. Classic Enterprises LLC
