Today we’d like to introduce you to Julie Conner.
Hi Julie, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Originally from New Jersey, I have been in the North Carolina area, off and on, for over 30 years.
I have an educational background in business management from various higher learning institutions that include Berkley College, Champlain College, Technical College of the Lowcountry, Wake Technical Community College.
I worked in industries ranging from law offices to Fortune 500 companies, and with each accomplishment, I have taken the time to learn about people, their likes and dislikes. By having this insight, it has helped me with my creations.
It was 9 years ago that I went airborne down a flight of stairs, and as a result of that fall, I suffered a traumatic brain injury; Over the next 9 to 12 weeks, with the professional assistance of an occupational, physical, and speech therapist, and a neuropsychologist, I had to learn how to walk and talk again.
During my recovery, based on feedback from the professionals, I knew I had to do exercises to help with the movement of my limbs and the use of my brain.
Sitting in front of the television for hours, I knew I had to do something; the puzzles left by therapists were getting completed, but were not challenging enough to keep me going.
Honestly, I cannot remember how it all started, but it was around this time that I began creating origami objects such as birds and flowers from paper. But I do remember it was relaxing, and I was working with my hands and utilizing my brain.
Before the injury, I had always been a giver; it could be a birthday, wedding, or just because, I began creating monetary trees with themes and gifting them to family and friends. It was explained to me by one of my doctors that my injury sustained had enhanced, not only some unpleasantries of trauma, but also pleasantries, such as the creativity.
Over a period of 2 to 3 years, it took several of those recipients to say, “Julie, you have a gift and you are worth being compensated for that gift.” I was totally reluctant because I didn’t see it as a gift/talent.
Then, one day, I added making custom gift baskets to my portfolio. The gift baskets are created based on the information received from the customer regarding the recipient. Each basket is created and crafted with a dynamic knack for ensuring it is received with a successful and genuine smile from the recipient. Each order is researched, designed, created, and delivered with the person in mind.
What truly sets me apart is my exceptional communication skills and ability to foster meaningful relationships with customers. With a proactive and adaptable mindset, I dedicate myself to delivering with a genuine commitment that aims for customer satisfaction.
After receiving numerous orders, in which I have lost count, it was finally time to create a business name. The name of JCDC Custom Gift Baskets and more originated. Although the business name consists of my initials, JCDC, to help people remember the name, I say, “Remember the group ACDC, replace the A with a J. Or, for individuals who are familiar with the numerous religious denominations. I jokingly say, “Not to be mistaken for Jesus Christ, Disciples of Christ. But, then again.”
I think have created over 500 gift baskets over the past seven years and 30 money bouquets over the past year for individuals, non-profit organizations, schools, and Fortune 500 corporations; many of whom are repeat customers. And that’s another thing, all of the orders I have been receiving have been “word of mouth.” So heads up to current customers across the USA, the word is out; therefore, don’t forget to place your orders for the holiday season, or you might miss out.
To this day, I have gone from it’s not a gift/talent to I thank you, God, for this gift you have bestowed upon me.
Furthermore, thanks to my family and friends for believing in me, as well as to my customers for your continuous support.
If you are looking for a custom-made gift basket, reach out to JCDC Custom Gift Baskets.
Phone: 984-221-1958
Email: [email protected]
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road has not been easy. But it hasn’t been hard either. Ensuring that I am compensated for what I do has been a test. The struggle is inward. I’m not a salesperson, but I am a person who has compassion for the work that I do. I usually go by the person’s budget. Not realizing I also have an operating budget.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in creating custom-made baskets, and just picked up a year ago, the money bouquets.
When I create the baskets, I go into a zone of how it will be presented and received by the recipient. I catch myself humming as if to say, I’m calling upon ancestors to get their approval.
I am most proud of hearing the feedback from customers, after some time, that the recipient has not opened their basket(s) because of how it made them feel, together with how pretty it looks.
The research JCDC does helps with that outcome by grasping likes, dislikes, favorite colors, and allergies, if at all, illustrating that the customer cared enough to know who they are as a person. Yes, we [JCDC] make them look good.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I wouldn’t call it luck when it comes to good or bad, but a blessing. What was a traumatic brain injury has turned into God’s grace and mercy by blessing others with what was given unto me during a time that my life could have turned out another way.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jcdccustomgifts_byjules/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jcbdaconner
