Jessica Jeneske, founder of Lollie Wraps, has been in the business of serving for a long time. As a postpartum doula and nanny, as well as mom to three kids, her focus has been on being there for others.
“I love to be a helper, to find ways to make life easier and more kind for people. I particularly enjoy helping moms and newborns in their ‘new normal’ life. Sometimes we all need some encouragement and support,” Jessica says.
Launching a product-based business was not on Jessica’s bucket list. But when her third child came home from the hospital with oxygen tubing and a monitor, the traditional babywearing wraps she’d used with her other children just did not work.
“The idea behind the Lollie Wrap is to wrap quickly and securely, without the discomfort of a knot in the back or extra tail of fabric, all while providing durability and comfort enough to babywear for both short and long periods of time,” Jessica explains. “When I thought of incorporating sports bra material for support, I was excited. I made a wrap and tried it out and was amazed by how comfortable it was. After a lot of trial and error, the commercial Lollie Wrap was finally born. We are the only stretch wrap to offer back support.”
Going from a service-based, one-client-at-a-time business to a product-based company was an interesting transition for Jessica.
“Working as a nanny and a postpartum doula, I'm familiar with what parents are comfortable with and looking for in a product, so I felt I had a good grip on the target market. However, I am constantly surprised by, and thankful for, people who are willing to help. My background is not in business and I've had to learn virtually everything, sometimes at a frustrating cost.
“I’ve learned to pay attention to the people who are where I want to be. They have been where I am. I follow their stories. I take notes. I emulate them. However, I always know who I am and what I value. People will tell me what to do and who they think I should be. I take that in, but I bring my own flair, ideas and direction to the platform. No two businesses are alike, and originality and drive will help create each person’s company.”
