Hidden Gems: Meet Jacquelyn Bell of Jaka’Z Inc.

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jacquelyn Bell. 

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Well, let’s see where did it all began? I’d like to say I’ve always had a great sense and love for style. You could always find me putting together different looks and just loving the feeling and almost instant confidence I gained when you know your look is on point! I was born and raised in Greenville NC. where my parents are Jack & JoAnn Harkley. I grew up in a Christian home where God was and still is, the foundation to everything we do. I’m actually the oldest of 4, so you can pretty much imagine, I’m known as the “Boss Lady”! 

So, let’s fast forward, with less than two years left in college at North Carolina A&T in Greensboro NC, I started working for a women’s upscale clothing store named “Ann Taylor”. This is where I really discovered my gift of not only styling others but learning how to value and treat my clients. Upon graduating college, they immediately offered me a manager position, where I went on to work my way up to having my own store as a Store Manager. I actually worked for Ann Taylor (Loft) for about ten years. This is where I learned the business side of a clothing business as well as styling others. 

While working there, God gave me the name Jaka’Z. What’s so funny about the name is that although I’m a Jacquelyn everyone assumes I’m a Jackie however, I really hate being called that lol. Yes, dramatic I know but it’s the truth! During my first launch, I had no actual products. I just took time to research and really gain an understanding for who my target market was and what their needs were. About a year in, life happened and I put my dreams of pursuing entrepreneurship on hold. In the midst of putting things on that back burner, I became a wife to my amazing husband Corey Bell and we have two beautiful children. 

Now let’s fast forward again to just 2.5 years ago. My son at this time was now a year and a half old, so I decided to focus more on me. I  picked back up my dreams, passion, and aspirations of having my own clothing brand.

I started investing back in myself. So, I first joined a coaching program called the “True Identity” program, under the leadership of Coach Catherine Newsome! It was a 12-week program that I went through along with at least 20 other amazing women. This program not only helped me better understand my identity in Christ but I gained a greater understanding of my purpose and destiny here on earth. Coach Catherine was sent as my midwife to help me birth that purpose here in the earth. Upon completion of her program, I immediately began to set into motion the vision God gave me, which was Jaka’Z Inc. We’re a thriving clothing brand that specializes in women however, we also offer select pieces for men. We’re known to offer “Style with a Message™️.” We also offer wardrobe styling services where it’s our motto to, “Help You Shift Your Style to Match Your Season ™️“. I’m known as the Style Shifter ™️! 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It certainly hasn’t always been a smooth road however I’ve learned so much since starting about myself and really my purpose as it pertains to business. I had to learn time prioritization versus focusing on balance. When I prioritize what needs to be done versus focus on balance with all the many hats I wear as a woman… I’ve learned how to better maximize the time I do have and get so much more accomplished within 24hrs. 

Another struggle I had is with looking to grow and expand my business to really reflect those I’ve been called to serve…. With time and experience, I not only know my worth but I know my Target Audience/Market. Can somebody say, “The price just went up “! 

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Jaka’Z Inc.?
As mentioned, before I’m known as, “The Style Shifter™️“. We recently back in July expanded beyond just offering an online experience but to having our 1st physical location. We call it the Style Shifter Room™️, located in downtown Greenville, NC.

I’d like to say what sets us apart is knowing our Iane (Purpose) and sticking to it! I absolutely have no doubt that I’m doing what I’ve been graced to do as it pertains to building women’s confidence through gaining a sense of style and their purpose. As the head Style Shifter™️, I don’t dress women for their now but for their NEXT!I’ve been so blessed to meet so many wonderful women of all walks of life.

We recently launched back on Nov. 5th 2021, the SiSTIR™️ Shopping Socials! This is where a small group of sister-friends reserve our shop and services to come in and get Shifted (Styled), enjoy some light refreshments, chat about all things Style, God, Purpose & Womanhood. We had our first group a couple of weeks ago and it was a super fun, amazing experience! You had to have been there because it was a great demonstration of Sisterhood.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
As for mentors Coach Catherine Newsome, owner of The 5 Star Lady Corporation & the brand Catherine Empowers. 

My amazing family … Husband, children, Parents & Siblings. Their support has been unmatched. 

My team who always grabs hold of my visions and does all they can to help it manifest! 

My clients, there would be no Jaka’Z Inc. without them! 

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: Shopjakazinc.com
• Instagram: jakaz_inc
• Facebook: Jaka’Z Inc.

Image Credits
Kristin Ratcliffe
Janessa Harkley