We had the good fortune of connecting with Jo Torija and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jo, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
Work-Life balance is truly the most difficult part of owning a business. For me, it’s purely because I love what I do, and I have a really hard time stopping myself from working 24/7.

I really enjoy the entire creative process, from playing with the new ideas all the way through to the actual process of making the product. It’s so thrilling to see your idea come to life and then share it with the world. However, you can’t put a time frame on your creative moment. I frequently find myself working late until an idea becomes reality.

Owning a business means also taking care of its less creative side, like taxes, bills or ordering supplies. Over time I have learned I can delegate those tasks to others in my team. This small, but significant solution, helped me focus more on the creative aspects.  It also allowed me to have more down time, which I spent with my husband and my two fur babies.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I opened Jarful House in 2016, providing a place to find handmade home decor for everyday and special occasions. My passion for decorating and my love for holidays started with painted mason jars table centerpieces and Christmas ornaments. Over time, I have added wall decor like farmhouse signs, sconces and soy candles.

As home decor trends keep changing, and some items become less popular, my main focus became candles and wax melts. Since we are living in stressful times, our homes have become the only safe place. I wanted my candles not only to bring comfort and escape but also to have more sentimental value through nostalgic memories.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Connecticut is an amazing place for outdoor activities. I’m huge fun Candlewood Lake and Lake Lillinonah, both are near my city, Danbury. My two westies accompany us when we go kayaking during summer. Collis P Huntington State Park where we go for weekly hikes. Another of my favorite spots is Gillette Castle State Park, which was built in the early 1900 and has a scenic view of the Connecticut River.
NYC is only 1 hour from Danbury for when my girlfriends are in town to shop.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My husband Carlos Torija is the main pillar of my success. He encouraged me to start my business from the beginning, and continues to ensure I’m going in the right direction when I lose sight of my goal.  He continues to teach me how to be tough, not to get discouraged easily and to learn from mistakes.

Website: www.JarfulHouse.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jarfulhouse/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JarfulHouse/

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutArizona is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.