Today we’d like to introduce you to Vanessa Frost.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Vanessa. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Originally from the area, I lived away for both college and the first part of my (first) career. I braved New York City and the exciting Film and Television industry. While I loved the city, I knew that that industry was not for me. I desired more creativity and a hands on approach to life. I ended up moving back to my home town, more as a stopping point along the way. Little did I know that I was going to find exactly what I needed. I rented a small art studio and next door was a small auto body shop. The owner was closing and the space became available. It was perfect, a blank slate with big windows and a huge garage door. I opened MUSEjar a year later. As an artist myself, I realized that our small town, while extremely involved in the arts, didn’t have a workshop space and art store! I thought to myself, “why the hell not. Just do it Vanessa”.
Has it been a smooth road?
Starting a small business is an adventure. There are always bumps along the way, because there are always things that you don’t plan for. There was also a bit of a learning curve, I didn’t know how to start a business! I educated myself, researched as much as I could, and talked to a LOT of people. I took it day by day and realized that asking for help isn’t a bad thing. You know what they say, it takes a village… I realized that the sooner I was okay with messing up and going with the flow, the better. The willingness to read your customers and change with them, is very important.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with MUSEjar – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
We host a wide variety of affordable workshops as well as private events for both children and adults. We also carry a curated selection of art supplies and beautifully designed and crafted goods. I’m most proud of the community we’re creating here. I’ve developed relationships with kids, adults and families. I feel like I’m helping build something really important, a place where people can be who they want to be and express themselves. Art is way more important than people realize. It’s a voice when you can’t find yours.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I love East Aurora because it’s a small community with a big city feel. There are people from all over the world that live and visit here. We have a steady stream of culture and creativity.
I dislike that everyone thinks we’re so far away! We’re a quick 20 min drive from Downtown Buffalo!
Contact Info:
- Address: 17 Elm Street
East Aurora, NY 14052 - Website: www.musejar.com
- Phone: 716-655-1015
- Email: musejarart@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/musejar
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MUSEjar
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/musejar-east-aurora-2
- Other: http://musejarart.tumblr.com/
Image Credit:
Erin Kristine Kuntz
instagram.com/capturedbyerinkristine
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