Meet Jeanine El Melki | CEO of Jem Remodel & Construction Inc

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jeanine El Melki and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jeanine, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
My decision to start my own business was driven by a deep desire for independence and self-direction. After spending ten years in the country without a clear career path and lacking a formal degree, I felt an urgent need to create a better life for myself. While many might opt for the security of further education, I chose to take a leap of faith into entrepreneurship, recognizing the lucrative opportunities it offered in the United States. I firmly believe that a woman can achieve what a man can, often surpassing them in achievement, and I was determined to prove this to myself and others. My affinity for reverse psychology has always fueled my rebellious spirit; I have never been one to conform or accept a mundane existence. I wanted to be remembered, to leave a mark on history, and to assume an authoritative role that set me apart from the traditional 9-to-5 grind. For me, the rat race was never an option, as I hoped to create something meaningful rather than merely clocking in and out of a dead-end job. Thus, embracing the challenges of business ownership became my pathway to fulfillment and self-realization.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My decision to start my own business was driven by a deep desire for independence and self-direction. After spending ten years in the country without a clear career path and lacking a formal degree, I felt an urgent need to create a better life for myself. While many might opt for the security of further education, I chose to take a leap of faith into entrepreneurship, recognizing the lucrative opportunities it offered in the United States. I firmly believe that a woman can achieve what a man can, often surpassing them in achievement, and I was determined to prove this to myself and others. My affinity for reverse psychology has always fueled my rebellious spirit; I have never been one to conform or accept a mundane existence. I wanted to be remembered, to leave a mark on history, and to assume an authoritative role that set me apart from the traditional 9-to-5 grind. For me, the rat race was never an option, as I hoped to create something meaningful rather than merely clocking in and out of a dead-end job. Thus, embracing the challenges of business ownership became my pathway to fulfillment and self-realization.

One aspect of my industry that often goes unnoticed by outsiders is the immense amount of work and stress that underpins the facade of success. While many may see the profits and assume a life of ease, they are unaware of the years of dedication and hardship that have fueled my journey. Often described as a long and exhausting battle, marked by sleepless nights and a constant state of vigilance. The demands of entrepreneurship mean I am always on call, even during family vacations, which can be incredibly tiring and sometimes leaves me without a moment truly to myself. Support from my cousins and family provides a crucial lifeline, yet the nature of my work can make me feel perpetually divided, as I often find myself juggling multiple responsibilities in several places at once. Drawing boundaries with customers is essential, yet challenging, as I frequently feel stretched thin, emotionally and mentally. This disconnection seeps into my personal relationships as well. While I cherish time spent with my significant other, I sometimes find it difficult to be fully present. The toll of my commitments can create a space between us, leaving me feeling fragmented and longing for deeper connection amidst the chaos of my professional life. It’s a balancing act, striving to excel in my career while nurturing the relationships that mean the most to me.

Risk has always been a delicate balancing act in my life, especially when it comes to entrepreneurship. I approach risk with caution, yet I recognize that opening a business is inherently fraught with uncertainty. It demanded a total commitment: if you choose to take a leap, you must follow through with unwavering determination and resilience. Along the way, I have had to forgo pursuing a degree and sacrifice relationships and various projects to fully devote myself to my venture. I firmly believe in the risk-reward paradigm; if you are willing to take bold steps, the potential payoff can be extraordinary. My success is owed to my own resilient spirit and persistent nature; when I set my sights on a goal, I am relentless in achieving it. While my mother has been a source of inspiration and support, and my uncle has provided invaluable guidance, the most significant factor in my success has been the courageous decision to embrace risk. When I opened my business, my bank account was nearly empty, and I had to invest everything I had into this endeavor, with no safety net to cushion the fall. Reflecting on that time, I sometimes wonder if I could muster the same courage again at my current age; I was just 27, armed with ambition and a fierce desire to succeed. That initial risk paved the way for the life I lead today, a testament to the transformative power of embracing uncertainty.

Beyond the pivotal decision to work for myself, the most significant choice that has contributed to my success was my unwavering commitment to forge my own identity and legacy separate from others. This desire stemmed from a profound love for the financial independence that comes with entrepreneurship, but it also reflected my determination to be recognized as Jeanine, not merely as someone defined by her relationships or the label of “the wife of.” I envisioned a future where I could establish my own name, spearheading my own projects, even dreaming of one day owning an apartment complex or skyscraper that would symbolize my achievements. This vision required me to prioritize my business above all else, making the tough decision to place it before relationships, partnerships, and even familial ties. It was a defining moment that affirmed my resolve to become the architect of my own success and to pave my own path in a landscape often dominated by external expectations. This singular focus allowed me to cultivate not just a thriving business, but the fulfillment of a deeply personal ambition to be recognized for my own merit and accomplishments.

The most important factor behind the success of my business and brand is undeniably myself. I view myself as the embodiment of the brand, driven by a strong desire to assist clients who have been overcharged for their projects. My commitment to fairness and integrity is paramount; I pride myself on never resorting to bait-and-switch tactics, and I detest the practice of altering agreements post-signature. My mission has been to eliminate the negative connotations often associated with contractors while simultaneously embracing a tireless work ethic that allows me to take on multiple projects rather than becoming overly fixated on just one. This dedication to service has also led me to collaborate with the best tradespeople in the industry, ensuring that each job approaches perfection and enhances my brand’s reputation. I take my business seriously, recognizing that I am the driving force behind its success, and I remain vigilant against any challenges that might jeopardize it. Ultimately, my personal ethos, commitment to excellence, and unwavering dedication to my clients have become the cornerstone of my brand’s identity and a testament to my success.

The most difficult decision I have ever had to make was choosing my business over my personal life, particularly during the critical first five to eight years of my journey. During that time, I found myself completely disconnected from family and friends, prioritizing my work above all else. I made the conscious choice to put my career first and everything else, including relationships, second. While this decision came at a significant emotional cost, I do not harbor any regrets. The sacrifices I made were necessary steps on my path to success, and today, I am proud to say that the fruits of my labor enable me to provide for the people I love in ways that are deeply fulfilling. For instance, I was able to bring my best friend from Lebanon to share in my successes, offering her not just financial support but emotional companionship as well. Through my achievements, I have created a life where my family extends beyond blood relations; it encompasses those who mean the most to me, and I cherish being able to give back to them in meaningful ways. Ultimately, this journey reaffirmed my belief that dedication and hard work can lead to profound personal rewards, even amid difficult choices.

Over the years, my approach to work-life balance has evolved dramatically. In the early years of my business, it was a relentless grind, working seven days a week for 16 hours a day, left little room for anything but work. This intense dedication, while essential for laying a solid foundation, came at the cost of personal enjoyment and leisure. However, over the past three years, I have made a conscious effort to shift this paradigm, allowing myself to explore the world and embrace life beyond the confines of my business. Looking back, it feels as though it has taken a full decade of hard work to achieve the balance I enjoy today. I have come to understand that a successful CEO can afford to be “lazy,” in the sense that I have built a competent team to manage the daily tasks of running the business, allowing me to focus on strategic growth and personal well-being. I often find myself dreaming about my balance sheets, both financially and in terms of personal fulfillment, recognizing the importance of maintaining equilibrium in my life. While the early years were marked by sacrifice, I now appreciate that balance is not just attainable, but vital. Today, I have mastered the art of juggling responsibilities and pleasures, allowing me to live a more rounded and satisfying life.

One of my favorite quotes comes from Aristotle: “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act, but a habit.” This powerful statement resonates deeply with me as it encapsulates the essence of my philosophy on work and personal growth. It underscores the importance of consistency and the idea that excellence is not merely a one-time effort, but a continuous commitment to embodying high standards in everything we do. For me, striving for excellence in both quality and customer service has become a natural extension of who I am. It is not just about meeting expectations; it is about exceeding them, making it an intrinsic part of my daily practice. Each project and each customer interaction reinforce this dedication, creating a habit of excellence that drives growth and success. By embracing this mindset, I ensure that my pursuit of quality becomes second nature, reinforcing my brand and solidifying my reputation. In essence, this quote serves as a constant reminder that our daily actions shape our identities and, ultimately, our destinies.

I pursued a career rooted in artistry and creativity because of my profound love for transforming houses into homes. Each project I undertake is more than just a job; it is a masterpiece that I meticulously craft with passion and dedication. There is an immense sense of fulfillment that comes from witnessing the joy and satisfaction of my clients as they fall in love with their newly revitalized spaces. This transformative process, where vision and execution come together to create something truly beautiful, is incredibly rewarding. Seeing a project come to life and knowing that I have played a crucial role in enhancing someone’s living environment fuels my creativity and passion, driving me to continuously strive for excellence in every endeavor. It is this ability to blend artistry with functionality that not only defines my work but also reinforces my commitment to making a lasting impact on the lives of those I serve.

I envision my legacy as one that transcends generations, marked by a stadium proudly bearing my name, a testament to my impact and presence in the community. More importantly, I want people to remember me as someone who truly cared, who was present in the lives of others and dedicated to ensuring that not only my children but also my grandchildren are well taken care of. My dream is to provide the world with beautiful homes that are not simply structures, but comfortable and functional spaces where families can thrive. I aspire to foster an environment where love and comfort are paramount, creating homes that evoke a sense of belonging and warmth. Ultimately, I wish to leave behind a legacy that embodies the ideals of care, creativity, and connection, enriching the lives of future generations and reminding them of the importance of home as a sanctuary of love and happiness.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
For an unforgettable week-long trip in Southern California, I would craft an itinerary that seamlessly blends adventure, relaxation, and delightful culinary experiences. We would kick off our journey with an exhilarating day at Universal Studios, immersing ourselves in the world of entertainment and thrilling rides. The next day, we would venture to the stunning shores of Laguna Beach, where we can soak up the sun, stroll along the picturesque coastline, and savor authentic Mexican flavors at Little Onion. For dinner, we would indulge in the exquisite Lebanese cuisine at Olive Branch before heading to Antica for an energetic Saturday night filled with lively music and dancing.

Sunday would be a family day, where we’d gather for a leisurely lunch, savoring homemade dishes and sharing stories. As the week progresses, we’ll explore the natural beauty of Crystal Cove, hiking the scenic trails and enjoying a picnic on the beach. On Tuesday night, we would seek the flavors of the streets with delicious street tacos, followed by a vibrant night out in downtown Santa Ana, where we’d explore eclectic bars and mingle with the locals. Throughout our culinary adventure, we would include delightful dining experiences at Moulin for French fare, and Izakaya Osen for authentic Japanese cuisine, as well as the inviting ambiance of Antollelo for Italian delights. Every moment of this week would be filled with laughter, good food, and incredible memories as we uncover the best this enchanting area has to offer.

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?
John Naddour- john@hookahjohn.com
Marlize Ayoub- marlize05@hotmail.com

Website: https://www.jemremodel.com

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