I have been reflecting a lot lately about the past year and decade and my creative journey thus far. Throughout the years, I have been named a Graphic Designer, a Maker, an Artisan, a Mural Painter, a Calligrapher, and most importantly an Artist. As I continue to grow and my passions change, I think it's important to look back every now and again and reflect on your journey. For today’s reflection, that means shining a light on Julichka: a Hair and Fashion Accessories company I started back in 2010 and continued until about 2017.
From Headband Girl to Entrepreneur
It all started in the summer of 2009 during a shopping trip to downtown Toronto. Loving the peacock feathered headbands at Urban Outfitters, yet not willing to pay the price, I came to the realization that I could make them myself, and probably better too. And so I did. People started noticing my hair accessories at work and I soon became known as “headband girl”. And just like that I was being commissioned to make unique, feathered headbands for coworkers, friends and acquaintances. I started making all sorts of hair accessories, from headbands to fascinators, using a variety of materials from my mom’s fantastic collection, purchased in bead and fabric stores or found at funky vintage markets.
HEADBANDS BY LA PETITE BLONDE POUFFE
My first local craft show was in June 2010 in Etobicoke where my mom convinced me to showcase my new headband designs. I was curious to see how other people would react and it was a success! Having people get excited about my hair accessories made me excited and I continued creating because of this positive feedback. “Headbands by la Petite Blonde Pouffe” was the name I used at the time for my new venture, which was a high school nickname.
a small side business
This curiosity and craftiness naturally turned into a small side business that developed during my student years at OCAD University and into my early career years. As a Graphic Design student, this crafty interest of mine had been a lovely break from the computer, allowing me to get that tangible experience from creating something with your hands.
a branding project
In 2012, I decided to rename, rebrand and merchandise my hair accessories company for my thesis at OCAD University. This was a huge project that included logo design, packaging design, web design, art direction, fashion styling, a lookbook, etc. Julichka was born as a result of this as a brand that focused on a contemporary reflection on past pageantry. This means taking inspiration from the past to create something fresh, unique, romantic and truly Julichka. The graphic logo represents the beautiful accent that accessories create while complementing an individual, a perfect message from an accessories company.
Julichka is pronounced juu-litch-ka
I decided to name my hair accessories company JULICHKA (pronounced juu-litch-ka) because of a connection I wanted to make to my own unique heritage. This nickname, a mix of Czech/Slovak and English, is what my lovely grandmother still calls me to this day, meaning little Julia.
Craft show artisan
Since that first show in 2010, I participated in more than 20 craft shows in and around Toronto selling my one of a kind Julichka creations. At some point I put my products online and sold internationally through Etsy. I will always remember the excitement of getting an order from someone in England, British Columbia or the United States!
A rising star at the One of a Kind show 2015
A dream come true for Julichka was definitely being part of the One of a Kind Show in 2015 as a Rising Star. Showcasing my creations at this well known Canadian arts & crafts show with so many talented artisans was a such a wonderful and rewarding experience that I will never forget.
A special thanks to my wonderful models over the years. These lovely women and friends made the Julichka brand come to life so beautifully and for that I will be forever grateful! Jessica, Francesca, Joanna, Natalie, Alessia, Taylor, Julia, Michelle.
press play to see the evolution of Julichka
From feathered headbands and fascinators, to flower crowns and chokers, to headchains and bodychains.
What ever happened to Julichka?
I always get caught off guard when people ask me this question. At first I didn’t have a proper answer. It took me awhile to reflect on this. I guess I was just ready to move on to other creative passions and decided not to pursue Julichka any further. There came a point where I needed to make a big decision: to either create a bigger business or let it go. And so I let it go in order to follow other curiosities. Personally, I see Julichka as a passion project that developed naturally from a simple curiosity and a little help from my friends and family. Okay a lot of help and support from my friends and family. This was a big chapter in my life that was such an important part of my creative journey. I grew so much as a person during this time and it helped me become who I am today. I wouldn’t change anything. Part of me will always wonder where I would be right now if I had continued the Julichka brand. But another part of me is okay not knowing and pursuing other interests.
TODAY
I am constantly evolving as a Multidisciplinary Artist and Designer, following my curiosities and pursuing whatever sparks my interest. If you are following my creative journey in 2020, you know that today that means Hand Lettering, Calligraphy and Murals. Who knows what I'll be interested in next year or in five years and that's what's super exciting! Thanks to all of those people who have been following along during the Julichka years way back when, now and in between. I truly appreciate it.