Posted in: Interviews

Interview with JPJ Founder and Designer, Jane Pope Cooper

Jane Pope Cooper has incredible, effortless style, and she channels all of it into her organic fine jewelry brand, Jane Pope Jewelry. Every piece is contemporary and yet timeless, so you can't go wrong. We LOVE.

where is your hometown?

I was born in Newberry, SC. It’s a tiny little town and my parents still live there.

what does your household look like?

I am married with two children. We have a dog Clyde and a bearded dragon.

what year did your company launch?

I launched Jane Pope Jewelry in 2008.

what originally sparked your idea for the company?

I had a line of costume jewelry, under the BALBOA label since 2001. Jane Pope Jewelry grew out of my increasing interest in fine jewelry and stones. I love the idea of building on a collection of staples that can be worn every day or piled on for more impact.

what do you love most about your company?

I have an incredible team, run by women. I love the idea of empowering women in an industry that has been historically male driven. I love my customers. I feel lucky to do what I love and to work with so many great people.

What is a current goal you are striving for?

A major goal for the past 10 years has been to bring jewelry manufacturing to the South. I started my own full service manufacturing company last year.

How do you keep up your mental health?

Great question. I take a bike ride most mornings on the beach with my dog, Clyde and watch the sunrise. I have also learned to skateboard at 42, with my kiddos as teachers. I am no Tony Hawke yet, but it’s super relaxing and empowering.

Looking back on your entrepreneurial journey, what do you wish you had done differently?

I say it over and over, but I wish I had a mentor. I was too stubborn about what I didn’t know and too embarrassed to let people know I maybe didn’t have all the answers. I also thought you could only have a mentor in your field. I have realized with age that so many things about business and the way a company runs can be shared across different fields. I know it’s not too late. I would love a mentor.

if you could give some advice to your 21-year-old self, what would you say?

Get a mentor and maybe work for someone before starting your own business. I was right out of college, and a little eager and oddly confident, which was not all bad. I just know I could have learned a lot more from a bit more experience. But I also love and appreciate my story and path.

Fun Tips

recommended read:

The Goldfinch was my last good read.

worthwhile TV series

I haven’t been watching any TV lately.

Vacation spot you still dream about:

Greece. I went for my 10th anniversary last Summer, and would love to return for a longer stay… maybe take the family to a small island for a month? Covid dreams have me wishing I could go anywhere really.

Song on repeat:

I listen to a ton of top tunes with my kiddos. They love to dance, so that’s fun to watch and participate in while they still think I am not embarrassing. I don’t have long.

Cocktail of choice:

Hendricks and soda with an orange and lime

Entertaining tip or trick:

I love to cook and entertain! I would say keep it simple. No one wants a host who is stressed dealing with everything.

Recent purchase that delighted you:

Vincent James Jumper – Heather is a new studio mate of mine and friend. She has an incredible line of sustainable and ethically made pieces that I adore. She is an inspiration on the sustainability front!

Skincare MVP:

Suntegrity tinted sunscreen. Never leave home without it on.

Essential makeup product:

Mascara and RMS Bruti Bronzer

“I have realized with age that so many things about business and the way a company runs can be shared across different fields.”

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