Meet-a-Mom, Jenna Lee Fowler
What’s your favorite family activity in the Hinsdale, Western Springs, La Grange, Clarendon Hills Area ?
The Hinsdale 4th of July Parade
How many children do you have and what are their age(s)?
Jack – 9 years old
Donnie – 4 years old
How long have you lived in the Hinsdale/WS/La Grange/CH Area? What made you decide to live here?
I grew up in the area and graduated from Hinsdale Central High School class of 1996.
After college I moved to the city where I thought I would remain. Then my oldest son turned 5 years old and it was time for him to go to school. I had such an amazing experience growing up here I knew I wanted the same for my children. We found our place in Western Springs 4 years ago and I couldn’t be happier with the decision.
Where’s your favorite place to eat and/or shop in the Hinsdale/WS/La Grange/CH Area?
Favorite place to eat: Fuller House on Taco Tuesday
Favorite place to shop: Shop Anecdote in La Grange
What’s one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I worked on the trading floor of the Mercantile Exchange for 5 years after college.
Anyone special you’d like to thank for helping you through parenthood?
My tribe. My community. It truly does take a village and I couldn’t have done it without them. And I am so thankful to have them.
Are you involved in a business venture, a local organization, a creative endeavor, or in the corporate world? Please share!
Before kids I was an clothing designer…after kids I found my creative outlet by designing botanical arrangements. I started Vagabond Botanical 5 years ago, honestly it was an accidental business. I was making succulent arrangements for my friends and neighbors. Then my friends and neighbors started asking me to make arrangements for their friends and neighbors. One succulent arrangement lead to another and then to outdoor planters, then large indoor plants and events. My accidental business turned into a business that supports my family after a divorce and allows me to be with my boys when they get home from school. I’m proud I was able to stay in our community.When the business started to gain momentum I knew I needed to find someone that complimented some of the parts of the business I was not so good at. That person happened to be one of my favorite clients, Nicole Drai, Western Springs mom of 4. Nicole was an engineer in her career before children. She is organized, a master scheduler, loves a spreadsheet and is one of the kindest people I know. I feel very blessed. I can’t wait to see what we can do with our little big business.
How has this community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?
Our community made Vagabond Botanical what it is today. We love visiting our friends and neighbors in their homes. Everyone has welcomed us and been patient as we grow. Helping our friends confidently add plants to their gorgeous homes is what it’s all about. Plants spark joy. And we’re here for it!