Jennifer Ledford has quite literally put her personal stamp on the business she operates in downtown Waynesboro. After starting small with a home embroidery machine, she now works in a variety of mediums to make customers’ ideas come to life.

“It was hard to find cute clothes for my son when he was young,” said Ledford. “I actually made Bob the Builder aprons for his third birthday party with all the kid’s names on them and the parents just thought that was the coolest thing.

“So, I thought I could probably make some money at this and met with a SCORE* representative in the economic development office to talk about starting a business in my home.”

A lot has changed since she set up shop in the downtown area nearly 20 years ago, but her commitment to offering one-of-a-kind gift items has not. Initial Inspiration uses classic embroidery, full-color digital printing, and laser engraving to create personalized treasures. 

“One of the important things that sets us apart from everybody else is we have no minimum order,” said Ledford. “Individuals and small businesses can come in and get two hats, five shirts or 100 shirts. It doesn't matter. We accommodate all levels.

“I’ve done bags and tags for high-end resorts, hockey and college football teams. I love the creative process and have a list of ideas for local tie ins like stickers and Christmas ornaments.”

That flexibility has come at a premium as new and better equipment is required to keep up with demand for additional products. Ledford is active in Waynesboro’s downtown organization and always looking to learn about new resources and funding opportunities like the EDA’s revolving loan fund.

“It isn’t easy to get financing when I want to add a new piece of equipment, focus on marketing or purchase new software to manage my business,” said Ledford. “The application process was so easy, and the low interest rate is a huge benefit.”

She used the capital received in 2018 to establish and produce products for a complementary business called Dare to Be, which inspires women to shine through their own stories. Customers can choose from about 15 words that can be emblazoned on different products that they will see on a regular basis.

“Inspire was my first word, but I also have others like dare to dream, be brave or be joyful,” said Ledford. “When I first started it, I was in five different Hallmark stores in Virginia and Maryland. Since then, Hallmark has switched up their corporate stores and the business is now primarily here and on my website.”

When she originally looked at her current building, Ledford thought it was too big and moved in down the street. Then, she ended up renting the space next door when it became available and made the move to Main Street when hers was the only shop left on that block.

“So, I called and asked to look at the building again,” said Ledford. “It was really a blank palette that I was able to set up the way that I wanted. I bought the building in 2011 and am now trying to figure out where to put more stuff. I have a little shipping container out back and the next step is to put one on top that will be my office.”

In real estate, location really is everything and the degrees of separation in Waynesboro don’t extend very far at all. Ledford set up shop in the old Haney’s Pharmacy building, which was famous for the potato salad served at its lunch counter. Right across the street, Stella, Bella and Lucy’s restaurant now serves that delectable side dish made from the original recipe.

“We need to offer something with a picture of Haney's Pharmacy on it because people always come in here and ask whether this is the same spot,” said Ledford. “It's fun when somebody in the family stops by and asks to look out back. I say, ‘Absolutely, it's a mess, but go right ahead.’”

*Service Corps of Retired Executives