Petals and Poison is a Gothic Victorian inspired brand, specializing in apparel, coffee/tea, jewelry, and more. Cultivating the beauty of art forms past, these pieces are designed as heirlooms, hoping to be passed down throughout generations. Embracing unique eras. Crafting a legacy. This is Petals and Poison.
On that note, join us in welcoming the face of Petals and Poison to the blog! Introducing Jená Bhone 🖤
"My name is Jená (pronounced the way Forrest Gump says Jenny’s name). I specialize in creating Gothic Victorian inspired jewelry, fashion, and small-batch teas. Petals & Poison was born out of my love for gothic romance, with a mission to create “Nu Antiques” that capture the beauty of nostalgia in a modern world that often overlooks it. Many of my products are designed to become heirlooms, cherished and passed down through generations."
1. When did Petals and Poison officially launch?
"Petals & Poison has been a vision of mine since high school. While it officially started a couple of years after I graduated in 2014, it wasn’t until 2018 that I really found my stride."
"I actually used to make custom doll head necklaces, which is SO wild to look back on, considering where I am now!"
"Great question! I actually have a couple of brand names in mind for future projects, but I can’t disclose them just yet. Let’s just say there are 2-3 solid names I’m excited to use."
"Yes, all of the designs are original and created by me. I do get a lot of help from Chloe Tersigni (@chloetersigni), who assists me in refining my sketches and turning my creative "word vomit" into polished art pieces that I send to my manufacturers. Chloe has been an incredible support from the beginning, and I’m so blessed to have her as both a friend and co-designer. "
For my latest fashion project launched on Kickstarter, I’ve teamed up with my talented friend Liz Nguyen (@pandoraslocket), who studied fashion at FIDM. Liz has been invaluable in helping me with the technical aspects of fashion design, from flat lays to tech packs to fabric brainstorming, and ensuring essential functions like deep pockets in dresses."
"Ooooh, that’s a tough one—they’re all my babies! But if I had to choose, I’d say the “Lucerna” collection. The tea set, jewelry, and accessories were the first designs that truly set my brand on its current path."
"Definitely liquid eyeliner! But I’ve grown to love gel eyeliner for my waterline."
7. What’s your preference: Lipstick or a liquid lip?
"Liquid lip, for sure! I love a good lippie that’s long-lasting, matte, and doesn’t feel like it’s going to smear all over me."
"The best way to reach out is via email, although DMs work too—just know they can get pretty congested. When it comes to collaborations, one of the biggest faux pas we’ve seen is influencers asking for free items without even following our account. It feels disingenuous, and we prefer to work with people who want to build a genuine relationship."
"More jewelry, more fashion, and more music! My brain is bubbling with so many ideas!"
10. If you could recommend only one of your offerings, which would you choose?
"Honestly, I’d have to say the fashion line we’re working on. It’s sustainable, has pockets, is comfortable, and offers inclusive sizing. I’m really proud of this launch, and I want people to feel the care that went into our clothing. If anyone wants to pledge or donate, here’s the link. Once it’s funded, these pieces will be available on the website!"
"I do have an affiliate program, though it’s currently full. However, I’m always open to receiving resumes and socials via email. I don’t focus on follower count; whether small or large, I strive for diversity in my affiliates. For those new to my brand, I also make music under the same name. It would be awesome if you checked out my Spotify! My friend Grazie Pennacchio (@thegrazofficial) and I write the music, which is alternative rock with gothic influences—think Evanescence, old Panic! At the Disco, MCR, and Nightwish."
Kickstarter: Victorian Inspired Modern Wear by Jena Bhone
2 comments
Long time supporter of Petals & Poison and own many of their things! SO thrilled to see you highlight such an amazing small business on your blog! 🖤🖤🖤
Checked out petals and poison and love their jewelry! Added their song to my list!