Meet Dr. Jenni JCHIC Graham | Global Brand Style Curator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dr. Jenni JCHIC Graham and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dr. Jenni JCHIC, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Thought Process Behind Starting the JCHIC LifeStyle® Agency

Almost 12 years ago, I embarked on a journey to create something truly unique in the business world. My vision was to establish an agency that seamlessly blends business expertise in PR and marketing with image and travel, providing our brand guests with a one-of-a-kind experience. I wanted to fill a gap in the market by offering luxury services of PR, marketing and image consulting with a white glove feel, where every detail is meticulously curated to exceed expectations. Thus, JCHIC Lifestyle® was born.

The thought process behind starting my own business was driven by a passion for entrepreneurship and a desire to create a brand that reflected my values and expertise. Having worked in the business industry for over 15 years total, I recognized the need for a comprehensive agency that not only offered business solutions but also integrated global communities’ elevation. I wanted to provide clients with more than just a service; I wanted to offer them an unforgettable experience that would elevate their business and personal lives for the long run. The travel component made it possible for us to do these things globally which set us apart from other agencies in the marketplace.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Industry Insights; What Outsiders Might Not Know:

One thing about the industry that outsiders might not be aware of is the crucial role of PR, content curation, and marketing in shaping a brand’s identity and success. These elements are the heartbeat of any successful business, yet their intricacies are often overlooked. A lot of people and brands look at follower counts and likes on content, but at JCHIC Lifestyle®, we understand the power of storytelling and strategic communication in building strong, lasting connections with our audience. Once the connection is there the currency will come.

In today’s competitive market, it’s not just about having a great product or service; it’s about how you communicate your brand’s story to the world. PR, content curation, and marketing are essential tools for crafting that narrative and establishing a strong brand identity. From building brand awareness to creating customer loyalty, these elements play a crucial role in driving the success of a business and we make sure they are at the forefront of our offerings. We also focus on the operations of the businesses we work with so they can run like a well oiled machine.

Most Challenging Decision You’ve Ever Made:

One of the most challenging decisions I’ve ever had to make was to expand my business globally. I always said “Local is never enough when Global is an option”. While it was an exciting opportunity, it also came with its own set of challenges and uncertainties. However, I knew that in order to grow and evolve, I needed to step out of my comfort zone and take a leap of faith. Looking back, it was undoubtedly the right decision and has played a significant role in shaping the trajectory of JCHIC Lifestyle®.

Expanding globally required careful planning, strategic partnerships, and a willingness to embrace change. It was a decision that involved significant risk, but I knew that the potential rewards far outweighed the challenges. By expanding our reach, we’ve been able to connect with new audiences, tap into new markets, and take our brand to new heights. It was a challenging process, but one that has ultimately led to tremendous growth and success.

Work-Life Balance VS Harmonious Flow:

Finding a balance between work and life has been an evolving journey for most people. In the early days of building my global brand, it was what I thought I needed as well. I was fully immersed in work, often sacrificing personal time for the sake of professional growth. However, as the business matured, I realized the importance of curating a harmonious flow as opposed to a work life balance. Today, I prioritize self-care and quality time with loved ones, recognizing that a well-rounded life fuels creativity and productivity. The work still gets done but not at the expense of me burning out.

Over time, I’ve learned the importance of setting boundaries, managing my time effectively, and prioritizing my well-being. I’ve implemented strategies such as scheduling regular breaks, delegating tasks, and practicing mindfulness to maintain a healthy work-life balance. By taking care of myself, I’m better able to show up for my business and my clients, ultimately leading to greater success, a harmonious flow, and fulfillment.

Pursuing an Artistic or Creative Career:

I’m highly multi-faceted so I chose to pursue an artistic AND creative career because it allows me to blend my passion for business with my love for style and travel. Creativity is the driving force behind everything I do, whether it’s crafting compelling content, designing innovative marketing strategies, or curating unforgettable experiences for my clients. It’s this creative energy that fuels my entrepreneurial spirit and keeps me inspired every day.

At JCHIC Lifestyle® Brand, we believe in the power of creativity to transform businesses and elevate experiences. Whether we’re designing a working on their back end operations, taking our brand guests on a press run for PR, or curating a luxury travel experience, creativity is at the heart of everything we do. We’re constantly pushing the boundaries, exploring new ideas, and challenging the status quo to deliver exceptional results for our clients.
Pursuing a career in the creative industry has allowed me to combine my passion for business with my love for art, design, and aesthetics. It’s a career that allows me to express myself, unleash my creativity, and make a positive impact on the world. No matter what I’m doing for the brand, I’m constantly inspired by the power of creativity to transform and elevate.

Favorite Quote or Affirmation:

One of my favorite quotes is by Maya Angelou: ‘Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it.’ This quote resonates with me because it emphasizes the importance of self-love, passion for your work, and the manner in which you conduct yourself. It serves as a reminder to stay true to myself and to always pursue my goals with authenticity and integrity and not allow anyone or anything to change me.

At JCHIC Lifestyle®, we believe that true success comes from within. It’s not just about achieving external milestones; it’s about finding joy and fulfillment in the work we do and the lives we lead. By staying true to ourselves and our values, we’re able to create meaningful connections, make a positive impact, and achieve lasting success.

Approach to Risk and Its Role in Career:

In my career, I’ve always believed in taking calculated risks. Risk-taking is essential for growth and innovation. However, I don’t see risk as a leap of faith (although I always have strong faith); instead, I approach it with careful analysis and planning. Every risk I’ve taken has been a learning opportunity, whether it resulted in success or a lesson. It’s never a loss. Instead it’s a Learning Opportunity Still Successful. It’s through these experiences that I’ve been able to push boundaries and achieve new heights.

When it comes to taking risks, I believe in assessing the potential rewards and consequences before making a decision. I weigh the pros and cons, conduct thorough research, and consult with mentors, wise council and advisors. This approach has allowed me to make informed decisions that have propelled my career forward. Whether it’s expanding my business globally or launching a new service, I’m always willing to take calculated risks in pursuit of my goals.

The Single Most Important Decision Contributing to Success:

Other than deciding to work for myself, the single most important decision that contributed to my success was focusing on becoming an expert in PR, content curation, and marketing. This allowed me to take all my experience in corporate America, my college degrees, and the lessons learned from life and over a decade in entrepreneurship and turn in into a global agency. These pillars form the foundation of JCHIC Lifestyle® and have been instrumental in establishing our reputation as industry leaders. By honing in on these core areas, we’ve been able to consistently deliver exceptional results for our clients.

From crafting compelling brand stories to executing strategic marketing campaigns, PR, content curation, and marketing are at the heart of everything we do mixed with image consulting and travel. By mastering these disciplines, we’ve been able to effectively communicate our clients’ messages, engage with their target audience, and drive meaningful results globally. It’s this commitment to excellence that has set us apart in the industry and fueled our success.

The Most Important Factor Behind Your Success/Brand Success:

The most important factor behind the success of JCHIC Lifestyle® Brand is our unwavering commitment to excellence. From the services we offer to the relationships we build, we strive for nothing less than close to perfection as possible. Our dedication to delivering unparalleled quality in everything we do sets us apart in the industry and has been the driving force behind our success.

At JCHIC Lifestyle® Brand, we believe in going above and beyond for our clients. Whether it’s providing personalized service, attention to detail, or innovative solutions, we always strive to exceed expectations. By consistently delivering exceptional results, we’ve earned the trust and loyalty of our clients, establishing ourselves as a leader in the industry.

Legacy and What You Want to Be Remembered For:

My ultimate legacy is to inspire and empower others to pursue their passions fearlessly and to never settle for anything less than their dreams. I want to be remembered as a visionary entrepreneur who not only achieved success but also made a positive impact on the lives of others. Whether through my business ventures, my coaching and speaking engagements, or my creative endeavors, I hope to leave behind a legacy of innovation, inspiration, and excellence.

At JCHIC Lifestyle® Brand, we’re not just in the business of providing services; we’re in the business of changing lives. We’re committed to helping our clients achieve their goals, fulfill their dreams, and live their best lives. Whether it’s through our business coaching, styling services, or travel experiences, we’re dedicated to making a difference in the lives of others.
My hope is that my legacy will inspire future generations of entrepreneurs to dream big, work hard, and never give up on their dreams. I want to be remembered as someone who dared to dream, who took risks, and who made a positive impact on the world.
I’ve been awarded 2 Presidential Lifetime Achievement Awards from the white house for my volunteer service and philanthropy work. I also have an Honorary Doctorate for my Humanitarian and Philanthropy Work

This is my motto: “When I help one person change their life, they in turn help their families. When they help their families, the communities are elevated. When the communities are elevated, the world changes. Therefore I can change the world by helping ONE person”–Jenni

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I LOVE this question. As a transplant to Memphis 25 years ago, I now consider it my home and I love this city. We were even given our own day by Shelby County Government so now July 14th is JCHIC Day!

Here’s how I would spend the week:

Day 1 – Arrival and Downtown Exploration:

Morning: Start with a hearty Southern breakfast at Biscuits and Jams.
Mid-morning: Visit the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel to delve into the city’s history and civil rights legacy.
Lunch: Enjoy some food at Alcenia’s, the Genre Memphis or Blues City Cafe.
Afternoon: Stroll along Beale Street, popping into iconic spots like BB King’s Blues Club and soaking in the vibrant music scene.
Evening: Head to the Mississippi Riverfront for a sunset riverboat cruise or a leisurely walk along the river.

Day 2 – Cultural and Artistic Delights:

Morning: Visit the Stax Museum of American Soul Music to learn about Memphis’s rich musical heritage.
Midday: Explore the Dixon Gallery and Gardens, featuring impressive art collections and beautifully landscaped gardens.
Lunch: Have lunch at Sage Restaurant or Mahogany Memphis.
Afternoon: Take a tour of the Brooks Museum.
Evening: Attend a live music show at Levitt Shell or another local venue to enjoy Memphis’s live music scene.

Day 3 – Day Trip to Shelby Farms Park and Germantown:

Morning: Head to Shelby Farms Park for outdoor activities like biking, paddleboarding, or simply enjoying nature.
Lunch: Grab a late lunch at Coastal Fish Company and request outside seating.
Afternoon: Explore the shops and boutiques in Germantown, perhaps stopping by the Pink Palace Museum for a dose of local history and culture.
Evening: Have a relaxed dinner at one of Germantown’s charming restaurants, such as Southern Social, followed by a leisurely evening stroll.

Day 4 – Memphis Food and Drink Tour:

Morning: Start with breakfast at the Brother Junipers for a classic Southern breakfast.
Mid-morning: Visit the Memphis Farmers Market (if it’s a weekend) for local produce and artisanal goods.
Lunch: Dive into a soul food feast at The Four Way, renowned for their Southern comfort food.
Afternoon: Tour the Wiseacre Brewing Company or one of Memphis’s distilleries for a taste of local craft beers or spirits.
Evening: Indulge in a gourmet dinner at Porch and Parlor or Flight Restaurant and Wine Bar for a unique dining experience.

Day 5 – Day of Relaxation and Shopping:

Morning: Start with brunch at Chef Flavas restaurant, known for its tasty offerings.
Midday: Spend the afternoon shopping at Saddle Creek in Germantown or explore Cooper-Young District for eclectic boutiques and vintage finds.
Afternoon: Visit Overton Park for a leisurely walk through the Memphis Zoo.
Evening: Enjoy a laid-back dinner at Sweet Grass or Bounty on Broad, followed by drinks at Bar DKDC or Railgarten for a fun night out.

Day 6 – Memphis Music Scene and Nightlife:

Morning: Begin with a visit to Sun Studio, where legendary musicians like Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash recorded.
Midday: Take a guided tour of the Memphis Music Hall of Fame to learn about the city’s musical legends.
Lunch: Grab a quick bite at Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken or a classic diner like Dyer’s.
Afternoon: Explore the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum to further immerse yourself in the city’s musical history.
Evening: Experience the vibrant nightlife on Beale Street, hopping from blues clubs like Rum Boogie Cafe to lively bars like Silky O’Sullivan’s.

Day 7 – Departure Day:

Morning: Enjoy a final breakfast at The Arcade Restaurant before heading to the airport or continuing your journey.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to my parents Charlie Oliphant and Jenny Okpobrisi and my stepmom Sheron Oliphant. They have always let me know that anything is possible and they never turned their back on me. In my book they are my heroes for their resilience and support. They are the true visions of what love and encouragement looks like.

Website: www.jchiclife.style and www.linktr.ee/jchiclifestyle

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennigraham1

Facebook: www.facebook.com/thejennigraham and www.facebook.com/jchiclifestyle

Youtube: [email protected]

Image Credits
Dope Shots By Precious
The Money Shotzz
ALever Photography
Captured by Jo
Third Eye Visuals