Meet Jaime Preston

We recently connected with Jaime Preston and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Jaime, so excited to have you with us today, particularly to get your insight on a topic that comes up constantly in the community – overcoming creativity blocks. Any thoughts you can share with us?
Currently, I am experiencing burnout while answering this question. In December, I made a promise to myself that I would take a break after my last show because I am exhausted. And that is exactly what I am doing now. As an artist, I have no interest in creating or fulfilling orders at the moment. It’s ironic because I feel like I am at a low point, spending my days sleeping and snacking. It feels like I am doing something wrong. However, I stay connected with other artists who advise me to rest, sleep, and return to work when I am ready. Despite their advice, I still have this nagging feeling that I should be doing something productive. I have made some changes to my creative space, including organizing and painting it. Additionally, I have been working on developing a more efficient plan for 2024 and have taken on a crochet project that I wouldn’t typically do. I am taking my time with this project and finding happiness in it. Ultimately, I have learned that during burnout, it is important to find joy in the small things and give yourself permission to rest. Without proper rest, it is impossible to be at your best for your business or yourself.
Although I acknowledge that experiencing burnout may occur again in the future, I have come to understand the significance of showing myself grace, embracing vulnerability, allowing tears and frustration, seeking clarity, and prioritizing rest. These practices have played a crucial role in navigating through burnout and finding a renewed sense of energy and motivation. Additionally, reflecting on my past projects serves as a reminder of my own greatness and capabilities.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am Jaime, the enthusiastic proprietor of Parlez Vous Crochet, a haven for limitless creativity! Originally from the lively state of New Jersey and currently enjoying the sunny atmosphere of Southern California, I am a crochet designer and exceptionally talented artist. My true passion lies in crafting genuine pieces that effortlessly blend fun and professionalism.

When it comes to style, I’m all about embracing the latest trends with a burst of color and a touch of bohemian flair. Inspired by the glorious warmth of our climate, my creations are a perfect blend of fashion and functionality. From trendy clothing to eye-catching accessories, I’ve got you covered!

I have over four decades of experience in this wonderful craft. My journey began long ago, but it was the passing of my beloved Aunt Alberta, fondly known as “Aunt Al,” in 2012 that ignited my deep commitment to crochet. Since then, I’ve transformed this cherished hobby into a full-time business, fueled by passion and love.

One of the things I adore about my work is the opportunity to connect with fellow crochet lovers through social media sales and pop-up shops in various locations.

I feel gratitude for the recognition I have received from esteemed online publications like Voyage LA and Burbank Cultural Arts and Commission. Additionally, I have had the honor of being interviewed by many industry trailblazers such as LittleJohn’s Yarns, Charde Crochet and Furls Fiber Arts just to name a few.

I have been fortunate to exhibit my crochet fashions at the Strands Fiber Arts Fashion Show, both in Atlanta and Los Angeles.
Participating in these events has not only allowed me to present my work to a broader audience but also facilitated connections with fellow artists and passionate individuals within the fiber arts community.

However, my journey doesn’t end here! I am deeply committed to supporting and inspiring fellow crochet artists. To aid them in expanding their selling inventory and unlocking their creativity, I have developed patterns and DIY kits.

Additionally, I offer private lessons to teenagers and occasionally teach at the Burbank Public Library in Burbank, California. It brings me great joy to share my knowledge and empower others in their crochet endeavors.

These experiences have been truly exceptional and have played a significant role in shaping my career.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Reflecting on my journey, I believe the three most impactful qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge were perseverance, creativity, and continuous learning.

1. Perseverance: The ability to persist through challenges and setbacks is crucial in any creative journey. There will be times when things don’t go as planned or when self-doubt creeps in. It’s important to stay resilient, keep pushing forward, and believe in your abilities. My advice for those starting their journey is to cultivate a mindset of perseverance by setting realistic goals, celebrating small victories, and seeking support from a community of like-minded individuals.

2. Creativity: Being able to think outside the box and bring unique ideas to life is essential in standing out as an artist. Embrace your creativity by exploring different techniques, experimenting with various materials, and allowing yourself to take risks. Don’t be afraid to break the rules and let your imagination run wild. To develop and improve creativity, I recommend engaging in activities that inspire you, such as visiting art exhibitions, exploring different art forms, and keeping a sketchbook to jot down ideas.

3. Continuous Learning: The journey of a creative entrepreneur is a constant learning process. Stay curious and open-minded, always seeking new knowledge and skills to enhance your craft. Attend workshops, take online courses, read books, and follow industry trends to stay updated and expand your expertise. Surround yourself with mentors and fellow artists who can provide guidance and inspiration. Remember, learning is a lifelong journey, so embrace every opportunity to grow and improve.

My advice to those starting their journey is to embrace these qualities, skills, and areas of knowledge. Cultivate perseverance, nurture your creativity, and never stop learning. Stay true to your passion, be patient with yourself, and enjoy the process. Remember that success is not always linear, and each step, no matter how small, is a valuable part of your journey.

Tell us what your ideal client would be like?
My ideal client is someone who possesses an appreciation for art, embraces uniqueness, and enjoys making bold statements. They are individuals who are not afraid to stand out and express their personality through their choices. They have a fun and energetic spirit, seeking creative pieces that reflect their vibrant nature. Collaborating with clients who share these characteristics allows me to create truly exceptional and personalized crochet designs that resonate with their style and bring joy to their lives.

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