We’re looking forward to introducing you to Jill Lawlor. Check out our conversation below.
Jill, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Lately, I’ve been getting into making little flower arrangements — for my home or as gifts for friends. I wanted a creative outlet that wasn’t tied to client work or deadlines, and definitely not something that would turn into a giant, ongoing project. As a small business owner and parent, I needed something I could play with for 20–30 minutes and feel refreshed. I’ve been having fun digging through thrift stores for interesting vases and wandering around Trader Joe’s picking out flowers with different colors, textures, and scale so I can mix them like a tiny design project. It’s simple, low-pressure, and honestly just brings me a lot of joy.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Jill, the founder of Jill Lawlor Creative. I specialize in brand identity and web design for women founders who are tired of their visuals falling short of the business they’ve built. My work is all about helping their business finally look as good as it truly is — and creating a brand that actually does its job, setting their business apart and making every touchpoint work harder for them.
I take a strategic, collaborative approach, and I care just as much about ease and usability as I do about the visual design itself. My favorite part of what I do is watching clients feel more confident and clear once their brand finally aligns with who they are and the work they’re doing in the world.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who taught you the most about work?
My parents taught me the most about work in that they helped me see the beauty of owning and building something of your own. I grew up on a farm in southwest Michigan, watching my parents run the family farm together. They worked hard, but they also had this sense of ownership and freedom that really stayed with me. Seeing them build something of their own planted the idea that I could do the same — just in a completely different world. Instead of farming, I pictured myself building a business of my own, centered entirely around the work that lights me up — design.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I’d tell my younger self that failure isn’t something to fear — it’s part of the process. You don’t have to nail the perfect idea right away, and you’re not supposed to. The messy drafts, the awkward first tries, the ideas that don’t quite land… those are the stepping stones to the really good work. Playing it safe might feel comfortable, but it’ll only keep you small. Take the risk, make the thing, put the idea out there. Creativity isn’t about getting it right — it’s about being brave enough to try, learn, adjust, and try again. You’re capable of so much more than you think, especially when you stop being afraid to get it “wrong.”
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would probably say that what matters most to me is my people — my family, my community, and the little circle I’ve built around me. They’d also tell you I’m someone who keeps going, even when things get hard. I’ve had my fair share of challenges, and they’ve watched me get back up, figure things out, and keep moving forward. They know how much I love being creative and how design has always been the thing that feels like “mine.” And I think they’d say I care a lot about growing — not in a dramatic way, just in that quiet, steady way of trying to become a better version of myself. Mostly, they’d say I value the mix of being independent while still staying deeply connected to the people I love.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
I don’t think you can give everything your best — and honestly, I don’t think you should. Some days the laundry wins, and other days it’s an impromptu dinner with my girls and letting the laundry wait. Not everything in life needs the same level of effort, and that’s kind of the point.
For me, “doing my best” just means focusing on what actually matters in that moment and showing up fully there. Let the rest slide a bit — it’ll be fine. That approach has kept me sane in business and in parenting, and it’s made both a whole lot more enjoyable.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lawlorcreative.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jill.lawlor.creative/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jill-lawlor-creative
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Jill-Lawlor-Creative/
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