Published on November 4, 2021 by Morgan Black  
Kirkland Aubrey

Brock School of Business senior Aubrey Kirkland is double majoring in marketing and entrepreneurship. As a resident in the Samford Startup small business incubator, Kirkland has launched her business, Emerson Jane Paper Co. 

The Emerson Jane unique product line includes custom stickers, stationery, digital prints, and invitations for weddings, events or parties. She also hand makes home and wedding décor. "I embrace the idea of a custom design," she said. "I want to help every customer bring their creative ideas to fruition." 

What is the story behind the name Emerson Jane Paper Co.?

“Emerson Jane” has special meaning to me. Emerson means “brave,” reminding me to keep chasing my dreams. Jane is the feminine version of John, my dad’s first name. He has always inspired me and encouraged me to pursue my business ideas, and the name of my business reminds me daily to keep pushing ahead. 

How has Brock School of Business and the Samford Startup program helped you launch your business?

Being in the Samford Startup has provided me with various resources ranging from an office space to meetings with successful business owners on how to grow my business more effectively. In addition, classes in Brock School of Business has helped prepare me and taught me useful information on how to grow my business in various aspects.

Looking to the future, what do you envision for your business?

As I continue to grow my business, I anticipate transferring from selling on Etsy to a personal website where all my products will be available and allow for a friendlier seller to customer conversations for my more detailed and custom products.

How can the Samford and Birmingham communities learn more about your business?

To learn more about my business or see my products you can follow me on Instagram @emersonjanepaperco, on Etsy @ShopEmersonJane, or contact me at emersonjane.ak@gmail.com.
 
Samford is a leading Christian university offering undergraduate programs grounded in the liberal arts with an array of nationally recognized graduate and professional schools. Founded in 1841, Samford is the 87th-oldest institution of higher learning in the United States. Samford enrolls 6,101 students from 45 states, Puerto Rico and 16 countries in its 10 academic schools: arts, arts and sciences, business, divinity, education, health professions, law, nursing, pharmacy and public health. Samford fields 17 athletic teams that compete in the tradition-rich Southern Conference and ranks 6th nationally for its Graduation Success Rate among all NCAA Division I schools.