professional relationship with over the last few years of owning SA VA. I am continually impressed by her drive, motivation and how good she always looks doing it. Jennifer helps folks and businesses plan for their future, but more than that she has a genuine understanding and caring for people that is remarkable for an entrepreneur who is working hard and fast to grow a business. I had an opportunity to sit down with Jennifer at the end of her work day and take a few photos of her in a few of her favorite SA VA pieces too. Get to know her and why we wanted to honor as our Woman of the Month!
Q: You spent the early part of your career in my business, in various positions in fashion and retail.Tell me, what is your relationship to fashion?
A: I've always loved fashion as an art form, and it's been a form of creative expression for me personally.
Q: Tell me about your personal sense of style - what is your philosophy on putting a look together?
A: My personal style has significantly evolved as a result of coming of age as woman in the financial industry. I've always believed in being comfortable but looking polished at all times. I prefer to be overdressed, and I have found that others appreciate that. My personal sense of style has always been a part of my identity, and now my brand. It works for me. I don't apologize for dressing feminine as a business woman, and I believe in getting dressed to the nines, as they say. With that being said, I appreciate all senses of personal style, because style is so much more than just a fashion.
Q: How have the brands that you have worked for influenced your personal style?
A: I've been fortunate to work for and with some amazing designer brands. I think my style is a mixture of many things I've picked up over the years; a little dash of classic prep, a sprinkle of European chic, add some bohemian, and that usually creates my day to day look. In Italian it's called, 'sprezzatura,' which basically means calculated carelessness.
Q: Like me, you work A LOT and you need to dress.When you have time off, what do you wear?
A: I'm a huge denim fan. I love the way a dark pair of skinny jeans can be manipulated into so many different styles. I'm a boot addict, and I love casual day dresses.
Q: You're an entrepreneur, tell me about what you do and why you decided to make the leap?
A: I have an insurance and financial planning practice with New York Life. I am fortunate to work in a profession that allows me to help individuals, and business owners protect, grow and save for the future. The work that I do is very meaningful to me because I am a strong proponent of empowerment. When I meet with clients I believe in working with them to identify their long term goals, and then educate them about their options. In my business knowledge is power, but action is the most important factor when putting a plan together. I decided one day that it was time to create my own destiny. By setting myself free professionally in working for myself, I'm also able to do the same for my clients by facilitating the financial goals they have for themselves, their families, and employees. I've always wanted work for myself in a professional field, help others, and be successful at the same time, and nothing gives me greater satisfaction than that.
Q: Being an entrepreneur is all consuming in the early years especially.How do you balance that to get enough time to take care of yourself and keep balance?
A: It is! I would be lying if I said this part was easy for me. It's the thing I have struggled with the most, but I've enjoyed it all the same. Being an entrepreneur means that you are constantly re-evaluating every thing you're doing at all times, and if you're being as effective as possible. I have several mentors now who help me look at things with the long term in mind. I realize with each day that this journey for me is a marathon, not a sprint. I force myself to take days off, schedule short trips to visit friends, and get some exercise. I also try to be spontaneous, and not so scheduled all the time which is important for me.
Q: Too, you give a substantial portion of your time to some pretty great causes and community initiatives.What are they and why they are important to you?
A: I've been involved with the Junior League of Philadelphia, the Salvation Army, the ALS Association of Philadelphia, and now the Alumni Board of Rosemont College. It's just part of my DNA to look beyond myeself and do a little extra to help. I see it as part of my responsibility in life. It's hard to find the time, but at the end of the day someone has to care, and it comes back to me in many ways professionally as well.
Q: We have talked a lot about growing our businesses, planning for our future and a holistic approach to living life but between work, philanthropic efforts and engaging in your community what drives you to do it all?
A:I wish I knew the answer to that, I think it's just what we do! I never want to miss an opportunity to experience all that I can in life.
Q: You were born and raised in the Philadelphia area. What does that mean to you? What do you love about it and what could you live without?
A: I'm proud to be from Philadelphia. It means being a part of a big yet surprisingly small city. I've always said Philadelphia is about relationships, especially when it comes to doing business here, and I've found that to be true time, and time again.
Q: Favorite spots in Philly?Food, museums, for shows?
A: One of my favorite spots in Philadelphia is the Philadelphia Museum of Art, when I go there I'm transported. I love Art After 5 on Friday nights; music, art and wine...what could be better? I also love the green parts of Philadelphia, the parks, and trails that are myriad in our area. I love to go for a bike, hike or jog outdoors. My favorite resturants are usually understated, and not too pretentious.
Q: And, last but not least, you are a SA VA customer - what do you love about SA VA?
A: I love the spirit of the brand, and the fact that it's indigenous to Philadelphia. I love the organic, whimsical, yet polished look of the peices you create. I love the fabrics, and the prints that you create and use, and how effortless the style is to incorporate into many different looks both professional and casual. Most of all I think I like that your brand is really for today's modern woman.
Jennifer Ann Hall can be reached at
[email protected]
cell, 484-321-1083
Connect with Jennifer through Linkedin: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/jennifer-ann-hall/16/86/929
