Fans know Jenni “JWoww” Farley, our NJMOMpreneur of the Week, for her reality TV career that helped launch “Jersey Shore” into worldwide fame and the recent reboot, Jersey Shore Family Vacation, that gave a glimpse into her life as a mom. Now she’s about to make waves with a different kind of venture—a new retail store called Heavenly Flower, opening in the coming weeks at American Dream in East Rutherford. The shop is the first of its kind concept store featuring coordinating mommy and me outfits and a long-time dream come true for Jenni, mom to daughter Meilani (6) and son Greyson (3). We had a chance to talk to the Holmdel mama about the inspiration for opening a store, the meaning behind its name, and the best steakhouse she’s ever been to (of course, it’s located at the shore).
featured image via Anthony Serrantonio.
Tell us about Heavenly Flower! What can mamas expect when they come to shop?
It has been a long-term dream to open up a retail store, especially with my daughter. The store’s name comes from my daughter’s name, Meilani, which means ‘heavenly flower.’ Mei is Chinese for plum blossom, the national flower in China, and Lani is heaven in Hawaii. Moms will be able to find mommy-and-me clothing and accessories while shopping for their daughters and sons. So many of my fans who have grown up watching me on television are now moms, too, and I’m thrilled to offer this concept to them. The Heavenly Flower collection is fun, stylish, and affordable for women and kids. I can’t think of a better place to bring this idea to life than at American Dream.
In addition to your television career, you’re a multi-faceted NJMOMpreneur and have launched several successful businesses over the years. What gave you the idea for Heavenly Flower?
As a working mom, I’ve always wanted to include my kids in what I do. I love mommy-and-me clothing and matching with my daughter, Meilani, so that is where I came up with the concept for the store.
Do you have a favorite item or look from the shop you can give us a sneak peek of?
It’s so hard to pick one favorite item that will be in the store because I love everything. I was very involved with the items we are selling—both Meilani and I handpicked the mommy and me pieces. When we open, expect to see matching sweatshirts, pretty print dresses, and lots of cuteness.
You’ve shared your son Greyson’s autism diagnosis and journey and all of the progress he has made over the past few years. How has that influenced what you do?
My kids are always my number one priority—everything I do in life is for the two of them. Advocating for Greyson to make the world a more inclusive place is a driving force in what I do. I am proud to be a board member of Kulture City, a leading non-profit recognized nationwide with a goal to make the nevers possible and create acceptance and inclusion for everyone with sensory needs. Being a part of this organization and supporting them means I can help make a difference.
What are some of your favorite Jersey local businesses, and why do you love them?
Eat Clean Bro has amazing food—it’s so convenient, and I often get it during the week for a quick, easy, family-friendly meal. A couple of times a year, I do a juice cleanse with Ocean Organics. They always make me feel great and give me a jump kick to healthy eating. I love everything in The Snooki Shop, and it is created by my best friend which gives it an added bonus. The Butcher’s Block in Long Branch is the best steak house I’ve ever been to. It’s a restaurant and a fantastic butcher, and a great place to go with family and friends for a special occasion. I’m obsessed with Dr. Kaga from Kaga Institute; she is my go-to for skincare and healthcare for my family and me. She is also a mother of two and has an incredible practice, and there is nothing more I love than supporting other working moms.
What advice do you have for other moms trying to balance everything #momlife and starting their own business?
My advice is to make time for yourself even when you don’t think you have it. Having that balance and time management is the key to making it all work.
For more info on Jenni and Heavenly Flower, check out the shop’s website, Instagram and Facebook.
