Homegrown Business: Shirley Jaunai of Jaunaii Studio

Are you interested in taking up sewing or pattern-making as a hobby or starting your own clothing brand? Look no further than Jaunaii Studio, a Montreal-based business specializing in sewing and pattern-making classes. Jaunaii Studio offers personalized private sessions and dynamic small group classes to cater to the needs of both fashion enthusiasts and entrepreneurs. Founder and owner, Jaunaii, has turned her passion for sewing into a fulfilling career, collaborating with various ateliers and independent designers and even teaching at Lasalle College. At Jaunaii Studio, students can expect a stress-free environment and an enjoyable learning experience. No matter your level, whether an absolute beginner or experienced sewer, Jaunaii is passionate about passing on her knowledge and making sure her students understand.

Jaunaii Studio

What is your business called and what does it do?

Our business is called Jaunaii Studio [named after my surname], our studio specializes in sewing and pattern-making classes, catering to the creative minds of Montreal. From personalized private sessions to dynamic small group classes, we provide a range of options to nurture your passion for fashion.

What made you want to do this work?

I began sewing at age seven and haven’t stopped since! I started sewing for friends and family then, started my own business doing furniture upholstery and fashion designing in St Lucia. I decided to learn the craft professionally once I moved to Canada. Taking a significant step towards mastering my skills, I enrolled in fashion school at Lasalle College. This educational experience played a pivotal role in refining my abilities and preparing me for a professional career. Since then, my journey has led me to collaborate with various ateliers and independent designers. Interestingly, I now find myself teaching at the very same college. Teaching has become a true passion for me. Witnessing the joy on my students’ faces as they approach the completion of a piece is the most rewarding aspect of my job.

What problem did you want to solve with the business?

I wouldn’t necessarily label it as a problem, but I recognized the importance of establishing spaces dedicated to imparting foundational skills in sewing and pattern-making for fashion enthusiasts. Most particularly, for persons that are interested in learning without committing to a professional degree, or would like to pursue it simply as a hobby. I also take pride in creating a stress-free environment at the studio. Here, individuals can embrace the art of sewing at their own pace without the usual hustle and bustle associated with this industry. It’s all about fostering a relaxed and enjoyable learning experience.

Who are your clientele/demographics?

Any human above the age of 15 who is interested in learning how to sew their own clothes and make their own patterns! We also get a lot of entrepreneurs who want to start their own clothing brands.

How does your business make money? How does it work?

We make money from our classes. We also sell sewing and pattern-making tools.

Where in the city can we find your profession?

We are at 1396 Rue St Catherine, Suite 410! You can book your classes directly from our website.

What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.

The best question would be “What sets your studio apart from others, and how do you ensure students get the full learning experience?” My answer would be, how passionate I am about teaching and my expertise in the field really sets us apart. I always make sure I am putting my best foot forward to make sure my students understand. Not everyone learns the same way, so I like to check in and try different methods to ensure that they understand. Another thing that sets us apart is our space. It is a quiet, peaceful and tranquil studio that we hope our students can feel joy to be in and to create in.

What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?

The best part is hands down passing on my knowledge to my students. Being able to teach a skill such as sewing and pattern making is so fulfilling and I love the joy that it brings my students. There is not really a worst part, but if I were to highlight something, it would be observing a student with immense potential who falls short due to a lack of commitment to unlocking their full capabilities. Mastery in any craft requires both time and dedication.

What is your favourite joke about your own profession?

My students can sometimes overthink the execution of styles, I have to remind them that it is not brain surgery!

Where can we follow you?

Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok | YoutubeWebsite

PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?

Touch Radiance | Stressed but Backwards | Lili & Oli

 

About Emilea Semancik 70 Articles
Emilea Semancik was born in North Vancouver. Emilea has always always wanted to work as a freelance writer and currently writes for the Vancouver Guardian. Taking influence from journalism culture surrounding the great and late Anthony Bourdain, she is a recipe author working towards publishing her own series of books. You can find her food blog on Instagram: