What if you could have a photo booth at your wedding, but instead of pictures they were doodles? Enter Doodlebooth. Jana, the creative genius behind this fun concept, came up with the idea a few years ago at a holiday pop-up shop when she began drawing people’s portraits in the corner for $10 a pop. Needless to say, they were hugely successful and ended up turning Jana’s fun into an actual business. Do what you love, love what you do — Jana is lucky enough to live this mantra every day and we are lucky enough to know her! It was an honor working with Jana at the first Chicago NotWedding, and we cannot wait to see what she scribbles up next.
“If you want something at your wedding that isn’t the standard photo booth, this is the perfect way to get your guests involved and have something to take home. These perfect little drawings are such a cute and fun keepsake, and Jana is so artistic and fun!”
The Chicago NotWedding Team
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Tell us a little bit about the inception of Doodlebooth.
I went to school for graphic design but I’ve always been an illustrator. About 4 years ago, some design friends invited me to sell prints at a holiday pop-up shop, but I didn’t have anything to sell so I asked if I could just sit in the corner and draw portraits for $10 a pop. I did that for two days and I just LOVED it. As I left on the second day, having had maybe a few too many mimosas, I told my friends hosting the event that I should turn this into a business. I said “I’ll call it Doodlebooth — like a photo booth, but with doodles!” A week later, I had the domain and a rough business plan!
Who or what inspires you?
Two major things influence me artistically, I’d say. Fashion illustration uses so few lines to create the idea of clothing and hair, and lots of contemporary japanese illustration does the same, but for facial expressions. Doodlebooth is so quick and simple that I have to fit in as much about a person into what is essentially a simple line drawing. The majority of my business/life inspiration comes from my friends who are also running successful, crazy businesses based on doing what they love. We fuel each other!
Describe a highlight or pivotal moment in your career.
When I left my job at CB2, I continued freelancing for them doing the Oliver plate series. That first winter being on my own, CB2 hired me for a series of Holiday in-store Doodlebooth sessions. It was wonderful to meet so many fans of the Oliver plates, and then get to draw their portraits! It was so affirming and uplifting, and I have been lucky enough to do it for the past 3 years!
What is the best part of your day?
At the end of the day after meetings and running around town when I get to be at home with my roommate and his big wonderful pitbull, Hickory.
What is your favorite part of The NotWedding experience?
I loved getting to meet and draw so many brides and grooms with their friends and family. Everyone was so excited to be there — much like a real wedding, but they got to wear whatever they wanted! Getting the in-person interaction with potential clients is the best way for them to fall in love with Doodlebooth.
Photo Credits:
Lucy Hewett (2 + 4)
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