Jessica Benjestorf, co-owner of Juniper Station in Napa, explained how she came to be a small business owner.
“After having my daughter, I had a big realization that whatever my next career was going to be had to be my passion. Balancing work and parenting is always a challenge, but having my daughter see what Kristina Palmieri (my business partner) and I have built has made it so worth it,” wrote Benjestorf.
“I want to be a role model for her to go after her big dreams no matter how scary or hard they are,” she said.
The store, located at 1624 Main St., Napa, is about to celebrate its one-year business anniversary.
1. What is Juniper Station Napa?
We are a refillery and mercantile specializing in eco-friendly, sustainable and low-waste products. We’re an awesome place to grab an earth-friendly gift, and our refillery is helping reduce plastic waste by allowing people to stock up on their home and personal care products without needing to buy new plastic containers.
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2. What was your childhood ambition?
To be a veterinarian! Or Steve Irwin’s assistant.
3. What job would you like to try/not try?
Try: Regenerative farmer.
Not try: An office job (I can’t sit for that long).
4. What do you love or like best about what you do?
Hands down, the community. We’ve met the most amazing people since opening our doors last November.
5. What is the biggest challenge your business has faced?
I think, like all retail, we are competing with the ease and convenience of large online marketplaces and big box stores. We have felt (and seen) a huge swell of support from our local community and are so grateful for everyone who chooses to shop small and local.
6. Who do you most admire in the business world?
Erin and Chris Benzakein of Floret Flowers.
7. What’s one thing Napa could do to help local business?
We are excited to be part of the Maker’s District and would love the city’s help in promoting this vibrant art and business community.
8. If you could change one thing about your business or industry, what would it be?
Even though we are able to refill our bulk containers with our manufacturers, I’d love to see them using stainless steel drums and do away with plastic for good.
9. What’s something people might be surprised to know about you?
I love to read fiction, but mostly focus on historical British fiction from the 1780s-1900s. Rosamunde Pilcher was one of my favorite writers.
10. What is one thing you hope to accomplish in your lifetime that you haven’t yet?
I’d love to start an animal rescue or sanctuary.
You can reach business editor Jennifer Huffman at 707-256-2218 or [email protected]
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