Jill started her brand with coffee spoons and eventually presented it at Maison & Objet in Paris. Without a clear-cut plan, but with confidence in her idea, Lepelclub gradually grew into a recognizable tableware brand with international ambitions. In this edition of Celebrating the Bold with… we talk with Jill about courage, intuition, and staying true to yourself.
What does "being bold" mean to you personally?
Following your dreams and going for it, even if that means straying from the usual path.
When do you feel most powerful?
When you do something outside your comfort zone, tackle it anyway, and ultimately feel stronger for it.
The Spoon Club started with something small and unexpected: coffee spoons. What gave you the confidence that this idea had potential?
From day one, I strongly believed in it. By simply doing it, I gradually discovered what worked and what didn't, and I was able to build on it step by step.
Did you already have a concrete vision in mind back then? How did you ultimately find that recognizable style?
No, but I did write down some goals, and that helped me. The style has evolved over time, and we try to stay true to it.
What was it like taking the first steps of Lepelclub, and how did you handle the tension and pressure that came with it?
It was really fun! I started very small, alongside a full-time job, so the risk was low. I worked from home until we switched to a fulfillment partner and the collection, team, and collaborations continued to grow.
What was a truly bold decision for you in building Lepelclub—one that was daunting, but one you had to make?
Quitting my full-time job! At some point, it just became impossible to combine the two, but I found that step incredibly exciting!
What lessons did you learn along the way that you still carry with you as an entrepreneur?
Always stay true to yourself, listen to your gut, even if something sounds great. And work on it every day. That's how you'll eventually get closer to where you want to be.
Is there an item that's your favorite or that you're most proud of?
The pearl haircuts! They were truly the start of Lepelclub. They went viral and led to me quitting my job.
Where do you find inspiration when you're not designing?
Everything! I get a lot of inspiration from Pinterest, love exploring new places, and am also inspired by the people around me.
You recently presented Lepelclub for the first time at an international trade fair, Maison & Objet in Paris. What was that moment like for you?
It was amazing! We were among established brands, and from day one, I knew I wanted to be a part of this. We made so many wonderful connections, and Lepelclub really came to life. It felt a bit like having our own store for a week!
Where do you see Lepelclub growing, and what are your secret dreams?
I hope the brand continues to grow, that we forge exciting new collaborations, and that both our collection and our team continue to expand.
Who's a woman you admire for her courage—and why?
I really admire Aimee Smale of Odd Muse. What she's accomplished in such a short time is so inspiring, and I especially admire the steps she's brave enough to take, like opening several international flagship stores.
What advice would you give to women who dream of more but are unsure?
Go for it! Every beginning can be small; from there, you can only grow.
Finally: What's your favorite piece of Eline Rosina jewelry?
Tough question! You have so many beautiful pieces. My favorites are the diamond huggies, a true classic, and the diamond piercing set.
