Building a Creative Legacy: Celebrating 15 Years of JLN Studio
Fifteen years ago, Julie Nitz took a leap of faith and opened JLN Studio with a passion for creativity and a dream of building a business of her own. What many know today as a creative destination in Stevensville began as a small graphic design studio in downtown New Buffalo before moving to Three Oaks and eventually finding its home in Stevensville.
After earning an Associate of Applied Science in Graphic Design from Southwestern Michigan College and a Bachelor of Fine Arts with a minor in Photography from Western Michigan University, Julie spent several years working in the graphic design industry before opening JLN Studio on September 10, 2011. The original studio focused primarily on graphic design and marketing services while also showcasing and selling her original artwork.
JLN Studio first location in New Buffalo
Julie dreamed of creating a business that reflected her own vision—one that combined graphic design, marketing, and art while giving her the flexibility to be present for her daughters, Rorie and Lila, as they grew up. Julie wanted to build a career without missing the moments that mattered most.
A couple of years later, JLN Studio moved to Three Oaks, where the first art classes were introduced. As interest grew, so did the business, expanding into classes at churches, wineries, restaurants, libraries, businesses, community organizations, and private homes throughout Southwest Michigan. Eventually, JLN Studio found its permanent home in Stevensville, where it continues to inspire creativity today.
JLN Studio Three Oaks location
Today, JLN Studio has grown into much more than an art studio. In addition to professional graphic design and marketing services—including branding, logo design, website design, and creative consulting—the studio offers creative experiences for all ages.
From children's and adult art classes to multi-week watercolor, gouache, acrylic, and oil pastel courses, JLN Studio welcomes artists of every skill level. The studio also hosts private painting parties and creative events, including birthdays, bridal and wedding showers, bachelorette parties, team-building events, kids spring and summer art camps, and a homeschool art program.
Behind JLN Studio has always been the love and support of family and friends. When the studio opened in 2011, Rorie was just 4 years old and Lila was only 2 years old. They have quite literally grown up in the studio, and in many ways, the studio has grown up with them. From helping with classes and events to cleaning, organizing supplies, and welcoming clients, they have always been part of the business and continue to lend a hand today.
Julie's husband, Aaron, has been her biggest supporter from the very beginning helping bring her vision to life. Along the way, many friends—both old and new—have volunteered their time, shared their talents, and stepped in whenever an extra set of hands was needed. JLN Studio has never been a one-person business. It has been built with the love and support of family, friends, loyal clients, and a community that believed in the dream from the very beginning.
Julie's Family - Photo taken by Catie Brown-Busch with CABB Studios.
Over the past 15 years, thousands of children and adults have discovered their creativity through JLN Studio. Some have attended classes and camps, others have celebrated birthdays and special occasions, while local businesses have partnered with the studio for graphic design, branding, websites, and marketing. Every class, every project, and every client has become part of JLN Studio's story.
As JLN Studio celebrates its 15th anniversary, the community is invited to the 15-Year Anniversary Open House on Thursday, September 10, from 4:00–8:00 p.m. Guests can enjoy light refreshments, giveaways, a free kids' coloring station, browse artwork, and look back through 15 years of memories. Artwork will be available for purchase at 30% off, and as a special thank-you, the first 15 guests through the door will each receive a free painting.
JLN Studio
2642 W. John Beers Rd.
Stevensville, MI 49127
(269) 598-2464
jlnstudio.com
Fifteen years ago, JLN Studio began with a dream, a passion for creativity, and the support of family and friends. Today, it has grown into a place where creativity is nurtured, businesses are strengthened, friendships are formed, and memories are made. As JLN Studio celebrates this milestone, Julie looks forward to continuing to inspire creativity and serve the community that has supported the studio every step of the way.
