Meet Jess Sprague | CEO of Enchanted Fandom

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

Hi Jess, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
When I started my business I was just a crafter making items based off books. I started showing off these items on Instagram and slowly authors started taking notice. I had been asked to make items for authors PR boxes a few times. After doing this I started to realize I wanted to help more authors stories get noticed. The inception of my bookish-based business stemmed from a profound passion for literature and creativity, and honestly not being able to find merch for these books.

I knew, from being a small crafter that it was hard to get noticed. The idea was to blend the enchanting world of books with the artistry of handmade craftsmanship. Additionally, my commitment to support indie authors and small shops through our subscription box was a natural extension of my desire to foster a vibrant and inclusive literary community.

Overall, my thought process revolved around the belief that books have the power to connect people, ignite imaginations, and inspire beautiful creations that enrich both the reader’s experience and the creative community at large. While I was able to support small shops and artists, giving them a chance to be seen on a larger scale.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My career journey with Enchanted Fandom. has been a thrilling and fulfilling adventure, shaped by a genuine love for books, creativity, and the desire to build a vibrant literary community. What sets us apart from others in the industry is our unwavering commitment indie authors and small shops. We offer a place where the customer can feel good about purchasing a box knowing they are supporting an indie author and other small business, not just ours.

What I am most proud of and excited about is the close-knit network we’ve cultivated, collaborating with talented artists, dedicated authors, and passionate small shops. We have seen small indie authors become big and tell us that they got the most exposure from being in our box then they did by just promoting on their own. I have also had a few artist now get commissions for big projects because they were seen in our box. Our subscription box has become a platform to showcase the works of emerging artists and support within the bookish world.

The journey to where I am today has been filled with challenges, as building a niche business from the ground up is never easy. Overcoming these hurdles required a lot of adaptability, and a willingness to learn from both successes and setbacks. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned along the way is the power of perseverance and staying true to our vision, even when faced with obstacles. I haven’t given up on always supporting small business and indie authors. Building a business is a continuous learning experience, and each challenge has only strengthened our resolve to succeed.

In the future, I aspire to expand our reach and continue collaborating with talented individuals who share our passion for literature and craftsmanship. Our mission is to bring the enchanting world of books closer to readers, inspiring a deeper appreciation for the art of storytelling and supporting indie authors and artists in their creative endeavors.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting the area for a week, I would want to ensure they have an unforgettable time filled with a perfect blend of local experiences, exciting places, and delicious treats. Here’s a rough itinerary for an exciting week-long trip:

Day 1:
Arrival and Welcome Dinner: I’d take my friend to a cozy local restaurant known for its regional cuisine, where we can catch up and enjoy some delicious food.

Day 2:
Shopping: We’d visit charming local shops and boutiques to find unique souvenirs and support local artists. Check out the farmers market.
Evening Movie Night: Unwind at a classic cinema or outdoor screening, enjoying a film that celebrates the magic of storytelling.

Day 3:
Day Trip to the park. We have some beautiful parks here and a picnic would be prefect to catch up on.
Evening Food Truck Tour: Sample various mouthwatering dishes from the vibrant food truck scene, embracing diverse flavors and cuisines.

Day 4:
Beach Day: Spend a leisurely day at a beautiful beach, basking in the sun and swimming.
Sunset restaurant on the water: As the day winds down, we’ll have a delightful dinner on the beach, complete with delicious drinks and breathtaking views.

Day 5:
Creative Workshop: Attend a local creative workshop, such as a bookbinding class or a painting session, tapping into our artistic sides.
Evening Bookish Event: Check out a literary event or book signing at a nearby bookstore or library, celebrating our shared love for books.

Day 6:
Take a walk through the town: Indulge in a day of shops and small eateries. Maybe even check out the local library.
Evening Concert or Live Performance: Attend a live music concert or theatrical performance, immersing ourselves in the local arts scene.

Day 7:
Brunch at a Cozy Café: Have a leisurely brunch at a charming café with a cozy ambiance and delectable breakfast options.
Farewell Gathering: End the week with a farewell gathering, inviting some of our local friends to join in for a delightful evening of laughter and storytelling.

Throughout the week, we’d also explore some hidden gems and lesser-known spots recommended by locals, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the area’s culture and charm. The trip would be filled with cherished memories, new adventures, and, of course, plenty of bookish delights!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
In my journey, recognizing the significance of collaboration and the unwavering support we received from various individuals and entities is of extremely important. I owe a heartfelt shoutout to all the remarkable shops, talented artists, and inspiring authors I’ve had the privilege of working with. Their creativity and dedication have been instrumental in shaping the essence of my business and enriching our offerings.

A special mention goes to Megan at Novel Grounds and Kathryn at Blissfullybookish, whose unwavering belief in our vision and constant encouragement have been transformative. Their guidance has played a pivotal role in helping us navigate the intricacies of the bookish world and turn our passion into a flourishing business.

Furthermore, I’d like to extend my appreciation to the countless readers and customers who have supported us along the way. Their enthusiasm for my handmade creations and enthusiasm for discovering indie authors has been a driving force behind our growth and success.

Finally, we must acknowledge the power of literature itself, as it has served as the foundation of the business and the source of inspiration for every handcrafted item we offer. Without the captivating narratives penned by countless authors, our bookish-based business would not have been possible.

Website: www.enchantedfandom.com

Instagram: www.instagram/enchanted_fandoms_

Other: www.enchantedfandom.etsy.com