Today we’d like to introduce you to Jena Renee Cervantes.
Hi Jena Renee, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I started my journey in a small town where chasing big dreams often felt like a stretch and opportunities were few and far between. But something inside me knew that I could do something big with my life. Fuelled by my desire to carve out a better future for myself and for others who were in the same boat. I uncovered my entrepreneurial spirit through hard work and resilience. It wasn’t always smooth sailing, but deep down, I knew my dreams weren’t just fantasies, they were attainable goals.
I didn’t grow up with money, an understanding of business, or a built-in network of mentors. Resources were limited, so I had to create my own path. I put myself through college, became the first in my family to earn a degree, and spent nearly 20 years building a career in both B2B and B2C brand marketing.
Throughout those years, I mastered not just the art of brand building, but the heart of it: strategy, storytelling, and purpose. But despite all my hard work, I kept hitting a ceiling in the corporate world. No matter how much I achieved, I still wasn’t close to where I wanted to be professionally or financially. I knew I wanted more than just a job. I wanted a purpose. I wanted to create a career that allowed me to help others build theirs.
So, in September 2024, I took the leap and launched Jena Renee Creative Studio, a branding and marketing agency aimed at uplifting solopreneurs and small businesses. This venture is a reflection of my deep passion and commitment to creating opportunities for those who often feel overlooked. I’m genuinely excited to support and empower others as they discover their unique voice in the business world.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
There have absolutely been challenges along the way. I’m still in the early stages of building my business, and while it’s been incredibly exciting, it’s also come with real challenges. The biggest one? My own self-doubt.
I knew I had the experience and skills, but stepping into entrepreneurship meant facing all the fears I’d buried: fear of failure, of not being enough, of disappointing others. That fear held me back for a long time. But with the encouragement of my friends, family, and my faith, I finally pushed myself to go all in.
There have been late nights, financial risks, and moments when I’ve questioned everything. But each obstacle has helped me grow. I’ve learned to trust my instincts, own my value, and keep showing up, even when the road ahead isn’t clear. I know this is still just the beginning. Bigger challenges are coming, but so is bigger growth.
As you know, we’re big fans of Jena Renee Creative Studio. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
When I started Jena Renee Creative Studio, I was inspired by my friends and family in the small business community. I saw how often solopreneurs, creatives, and small businesses with big ideas were overlooked by traditional agencies. I wanted to change that.
The studio is based in Phoenix, providing high-quality agency services to local businesses without the corporate price tag. What distinguishes us is a deep understanding of the community and creating branding and marketing strategies that have a meaningful impact right here at home.
At Jena Renee Creative Studio, we create bold, authentic brand identities and marketing strategies that are rooted in purpose and built to grow. Whether a client is just starting out or refining an existing brand, we help them stand out and connect meaningfully with their audience.
We also offer entry-level options like one-time brand strategy sessions and à la carte services, because no business should be priced out of building a great brand.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
I thrive on inspiration, and as a new entrepreneur, I seek it out constantly. Some of my go-to sources for motivation are the YouTube channels Motiversity, Above Inspiration, and I’ve just started watching Brad Sugars ActionCOACH as well. On tough days, those videos keep me centered in my purpose and give me the motivation I need to keep going.
I’ve also started reading Dare to Bloom by Zim Flores, which is a beautiful and reflective book on transitions and self-growth. I’ve been journaling my way through it as I navigate this new chapter in life and business. It’s helping me strengthen my mental endurance and stay connected to my “why.”
And for apps? I live inside Notion. It’s my business brain. From client projects to content planning, it helps me stay aligned and intentional. And, of course, all my design tools like Canva and the Adobe Creative Suite keeping my creative juices flowing.
Pricing:
- Brand Strategy & Planning Consultation: $125/mo.
- Monthly Marketing Packages Starting at $899/mo.
- Complete Branding Suite Starting at $800
- Custom Quotes for A la Carte Services
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jenarenee.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenareneecreative/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenacervantes/
