Monograms are currently all the rage, and what could be better than to have your very own crest created just for you? I have been wanting one for quite some time, and I was delighted when I met artist Jennifer Ashley of Jennifer Ashley Design through Instagram.
Jennifer and I worked together closely to create my new crest, which I plan to use on stationery and have painted onto a needlepoint canvas… I love it so much!! In addition to personal crests, Jennifer creates bespoke wedding invitations, party invitations, brand logos, nursery illustrations, and fun lifestyle designs. Let’s take a look at a few of my favorites from her portfolio and get to know Jennifer better…
Q: When did you first start painting, and how did you decide to turn it into a career?
A: I had a sketchbook from elementary school where I would draw from my adventures with friends, fashion, movies, and my home. My mom still has the sketchbook today and it tells so much about me as a person. I studied a little bit of everything from architecture to logo and product design at the University of Tennessee. I have always been a creative type whether it was designing my own bedroom or picking out clothes. Years after college, I painted some safari animals for my best friends nursery and a wedding crest for my own wedding. I realized that I had always been needing to have this creative outlet. The pieces just fell into place and I decided to start my own business.
Q: Where do you find inspiration?
A: This could be a very long answer haha. I paint everyday, so I draw new inspiration from so many different areas in my life but most frequently from studying other young artists and illustrators. I am easily influenced by objects with interesting textures, bright colors or simple patterns and I like to figure out a way to create that essence in my own style of painting. I have always loved children’s book illustrations of Beatrix Potter and been a long time fan of stationary brand Crane and Co. I am constantly changing and evolving based on my mood.
A: When I am not painting I enjoy trying new restaurants with my husband, relaxing in our neighborhood coffee shop and spending time with our two dogs. I am also decorating my home in Texas. Its important to me that I fill our home with sentimental items rather than just filling it. I have started collecting artwork and look forward to purchasing additional pieces through the years.
I just love everything Jennifer designs! All art is created using watercolor and ink. As a special offer for readers of The Glam Pad, Jennifer is providing 15% off all orders through July 25 using code GLAMPAD. Print prices begin at $50, and custom designs begin at $300. Please allow one month lead time for your project. You may contact Jennifer and learn more about her through her website, Jennifer Ashley Design, and follow her on Instagram here.
Love your new crest. So nice to personalize things that way. She is really talented.
I love your crest and adore Jennifer's work!