It started as a young girl with a wild imagination and an even bigger dream…
As a girl, I was captivated by colors, patterns, and textures. I rearranged my bedroom and draped blankets to create cozy nooks. With crayons, I envisioned vibrant walls and furniture, imagining how each shade could alter a room's mood. My mother, the ultimate decorator of my childhood, crafted a warm and inviting environment, where every room reflected her attention to detail and sense of belonging. Each decorative item held significance, as she combined beauty and sentiment effortlessly. She didn’t just decorate; she created spaces for love and memories. To this day, our shared passion for sales and antique shopping strengthens our bond as we escape the chaos of the world through design and creativity. My dad was a DIY master, fixing everything at home. As a child, I learned from him while he remodeled, built shelves, and crafted furniture. He still teaches me, instilling creativity and problem-solving skills. These experiences sparked my passion for building and innovation. I realized that with patience and practice, anything is possible. This foundation built my confidence to tackle new projects. Each creation reflects quality time spent with him. He is now joining my handyman business, so feel free to inquire!
These childhood memories weren’t just for playing; I was discovering my passion for design. I created designs in notebooks, and my dad required a proposal to redo my room, ensuring everything was well thought out. I built the best Sims houses, dreaming of making those designs a reality. I spent afternoons browsing magazines, sketching, and watching “Trading Spaces” on HGTV, imagining how to transform ordinary rooms into extraordinary spaces. Each room I decorated in my imagination fueled my desire to become a real-life decorator.
I am passionate about decorating spaces that reflect personalities and evoke feelings on a budget. Originally an architecture major at the University of Nebraska in 2010, I shifted to nursing after setbacks AKA realizing I despised calculus and physics.
After completing nursing school, I found myself stepping into the role of a single mom, welcoming my son into a new chapter of life. Faced with the challenge of creating a warm and inviting home on a tight budget, I refused to let financial constraints define my space. Determined to cultivate an environment I could be proud of, I embraced the art of shopping wisely, seeking out affordable yet stylish decor. This journey of home-making resonates deeply with me, highlighting the powerful connection between aspiration and reality, and the significance of a reasonably priced decorator who understands the struggles and triumphs of everyday life.
Nursing has given my life so much deep-felt purpose and intentionality in a world of unknowns, especially watching the resiliency and comeback in pediatrics. As a full-time nurse practitioner, I engage my left brain, while decorating satisfies my right brain—a perfect blend. After NP school, I pursued my dream of owning a decorating business to design homes and inspire others. You don’t need millions for a beautiful home.
Every girl can chase her dreams with determination and fuel, and each room I decorated brought me closer to mine. Here I am…Despite no formal training, I hesitated to start my business, encouraged by friends and family who saw my home transformation talent. I volunteered for projects, learning color theory, space planning, and mixing high-end with budget items and one-of-a-kind finds, while highlighting personality of each client. Each success intensified my passion, and I shared my journey on social media, attracting an audience that appreciated my relatable creativity of just an everyday girl.
After nearly 20 years, I founded J. LeRae Designs. "J" is for Jenna, and "LeRae" honors my shared middle name with my mother, an inspiring woman with a passion for decorating she taught my along the way.
Sincerely,
Jenna
Decorating your space doesn’t have to be a formal affair. Embrace a fun, casual approach that invites comfort and warmth into your home. Our homes are where we build our lives, create the most memories, and our safe haven.
As your decorator, my vows:
At J. LeRae Designs, I believe home design can be enjoyable and reflect your unique style while fostering connections. I create a fun, casual atmosphere where your preferences come to life in a warm, welcoming space.
I will work with you to keep the design process enjoyable and engaging, exploring ideas that enhance your home's appearance and functionality. I believe houses actually have to be lived in and are not just for aesthetic purposes.
I promise to uphold integrity and honesty in all we do, fostering trust through transparency and respect. Integrity is the foundation of lasting relationships.