In 1998, unsatisfied with aspects of her corporate design job, Jennifer Velarde went back to the skills she developed earlier in life and found a creative outlet in the satisfying motions of selecting fabric, working a sewing machine and figuring designs that ended up as handbags.
Her favorite activity quickly became the hunt for textures, patterns and colors that spoke to her and she couldn't wait to see how different fabrics would work together as a handbag. She realized that she loved the thrill of creating, and wanted to share this experience with others by creating a unique and original business. Soon, handbag appointments, parties and open house events were helping to spread the word about this new “design your own handbag” concept around Chicago and beyond.
Established in 1999, 1154 LILL STUDIO currently has 4 boutiques located in Chicago, Boston, Philadelphia and Kansas City . Though 1154 LILL started with one person, the 1154 LILL STUDIO of today is a place where many creative minds converge to produce not only an interesting product but an interesting experience, perfect to share with friends. Jennifer Velarde continues her role as president of 1154 LILL STUDIO and is involved with every aspect of the business from the ground up. She currently resides in Chicago, Illinois with her husband Adam and her son and daughter.
click on any of the links to purchase Jennifer's favorite products.
What's your must-have item in your makeup bag?
Paula Dorf Mascara in Chocolate
Same question, but for your airline Ziploc?
Chapstick
And, evening clutch?
Paula Dorf Sheer Tint with SPF in Breathless. When I'm stuck without the Paula Dorf lipstick - it's like sunglasses, I can't always keep track of my "latest tube" - I pick up Revlon Super Lustrous Creme -#133 Coffee Break
What brands are we most likely to find in your vanity?
I feel prettiest when...
I am tan.
If I were a magazine, I would be...
Domino.
I am always searching for...
the perfect pair of jeans.
My favorite place to shop is...
any place that requires a “hunt,” especially for fabrics, unique furniture pieces or designer deals.
The best beauty tip I ever received was...
to be gentle on my eyes when removing makeup to keep the skin around my eyes taught. I didn't realize how important this was until recently.
My favorite beauty product from my past was...
“Love's Baby Soft Perfume” One whiff of it brings me right back to 7th grade.
My most embarrassing beauty moment was...
losing my “stick-on bra” out the bottom of my dress at a wedding.
The first thing I do when I wake up is...
take a shower.
The last thing I do before I go to bed is...
kiss my kids and husband goodnight.
I could never live without...
email.
I could definitely live without...
email – it is a love/hate relationship.
I will splurge on...
the perfect pair of jeans.
I won't spend more than $10 on...
sunglasses. I always seem to lose, scratch or sit on any pair I have. I've been through 6 or 7 pairs already this summer.
If I wasn't a business owner, I would be...
a seamstress.
