Hidden Gems: Meet Megan Fenno of FENNO FASHION

Today we’d like to introduce you to Megan Fenno.

Hi Megan, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My business was born out of necessity. After graduating from Savannah College of Art & Design with a BFA in Fashion and Accessory Design, I struggled to find a job in my field.

I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit and a strong sense of ambition, so instead of waiting for an opportunity, I decided to create my own. That was in 2007—at a time when starting a business looked very different than it does today. There were no Facebook Business Pages, no Instagram, and no easy-to-build websites. Creating a website could take months, and growing a brand required a much more hands-on, in-person approach.

I leaned into that. I networked constantly, attended markets, joined business groups, and placed the jewelry I designed and created in local shops. Around the same time, blogging was beginning to take off. With a natural love for writing, I started sharing content around fashion and accessories, which became another meaningful part of my business.

When I first launched, I was living in Austin, Texas, where my husband had accepted his first design job after college. But in 2009, a pull toward home—and a desire to be closer to family—brought us back to Cincinnati.

In many ways, it felt like starting over.

This time, however, things were beginning to shift. Facebook Business Pages had just been introduced, and technology was becoming more accessible for small business owners. Even with these new tools, I was navigating significant financial pressure—student loan payments, a new mortgage, and the realities of building a business from the ground up.

I knew something needed to change, but I wasn’t sure what. I remember sitting in my office, hoping for sales, completely overwhelmed and in tears.

And then, unexpectedly, everything shifted.

A local radio station had come across my blog and reached out about an open position for a fashion blogger. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect. As a brand-new mom, having a steady paycheck wasn’t optional—it was essential.

I quickly fell in love with the role at this well-known Top 40 radio station. What started as writing turned into so much more. I began doing on-air segments, sharing fashion tips, highlighting local events, and even appearing on local news stations. It opened doors I never could have planned for and allowed me to build meaningful connections within my community.

A few years later, in 2013, I transitioned from radio to television, working for a local ABC affiliate. There, I helped manage large social media accounts while continuing to write about local events and happenings. I covered small businesses, DIY projects, and fashion—often bringing those stories to life on air.

But eventually, life forced another turning point.

Major health issues pushed me to reevaluate everything. While I loved working in media, the long hours and time away from home made it impossible to build a sustainable business alongside it.

So I made the decision to go all in.

I stepped away and returned to my business full time—this time with more knowledge, stronger connections, and a renewed sense of purpose. I hired a business coach, immersed myself in learning, and committed fully to building something lasting.

In many ways, I went back to my roots—just with more clarity and experience. I blogged, networked, and showed up at countless markets and events, just like I had in the beginning.

And slowly, it all started to come together.

Fast forward to today—over a decade since taking that leap—and my business has grown into everything I once hoped for, and more.

It’s not easy and I probably work harder and more than I ever have, but it’s meaningful because it’s what I chose to do. It’s rewarding and humbling to see the jewelry I create bring so much joy and happiness to those who support me. And running a business surely keeps you on your toes.

Now, 18 years into business, it’s incredible to reflect on how much has evolved.

While I started with a framework and a clear business plan, one of the greatest contributors to my growth has been my willingness to step outside of it. Some of the best opportunities didn’t fit neatly into that original vision—they came unexpectedly, often as ideas in the middle of the night that I simply chose to run with.

Entrepreneurship is constant learning. It’s trial, error, and a lot of pivoting. And I truly believe that the ability to adapt is what has kept my business not only alive, but thriving.

One of those pivotal moments came in 2012, when I was asked if I could create jewelry using flowers from a loved one’s service. I said yes—and truthfully, it wasn’t my best work. But the idea stuck with me.

There was something meaningful there.

Through research, experimentation, and years of refining the process, remembrance jewelry and accessories have grown into a significant part of my business. Today, we offer over 30 different styles with countless customization options, allowing customers to preserve meaningful memories in a tangible way.

But that’s only one piece of the story.

A major factor in the success of FENNO FASHION has been diversification. Over the years, the business has grown into seven distinct sectors—each one adding depth, stability, and new opportunities for connection.

One of the most recognizable is my roaming accessories boutique. Inspired by the rise of fashion trucks, I worked alongside my business coach to bring the concept to life—from research to fully up-fitting a step van. For the past seven years, it has traveled to hundreds of local markets, events, and even schools for career days.

Equally important is my online presence.

From the very beginning, I knew a website was essential—not just as a storefront, but as a central hub for everything the business offers. It’s a place where customers can shop, explore custom designs, and stay connected with where I’ll be next. More than anything, it reflects me—authentic, personal, and multifaceted.

Custom work has also become a cornerstone of the business. I love taking a customer’s vision and transforming it into something meaningful—whether that’s jewelry for teams, bridal parties, or something entirely unique, like turning vintage costume jewelry into heirloom bouquets.

In an effort to continue standing out in a saturated market, I expanded into laser engraving, offering even more personalization. From custom handwriting necklaces to engraved charms for permanent jewelry and remembrance pieces, it allows customers to add another layer of meaning to what they wear and keep.

Remembrance accessories, in particular, have opened doors I never expected—leading to partnerships with funeral homes and the opportunity to support families in deeply meaningful ways.

Another unexpected path has been teaching. My journey started at Michael’s Arts & Crafts, where I quickly grew from stocking shelves to coordinating events and teaching classes. Jewelry design was the class I struggled most to staff—so I taught myself.

And I fell in love with it.

Today, teaching remains one of the most rewarding parts of my business. Whether I’m working with kids, hosting workshops, or partnering with organizations like the Girl Scouts of Western Ohio, it’s about more than making jewelry—it’s about building confidence, creativity, and possibility.

Most recently, I’ve expanded into permanent jewelry and charm bars. It was a natural fit—building on skills I already had while tapping into a growing trend. I now offer appointments, private parties, and event-based experiences, with a wide selection of chains, connectors, and charms.

And lastly, another meaningful part of this journey has been building relationships within my local community. I’ve partnered with several small businesses who now carry my jewelry, allowing my designs to reach even more customers.

One partnership, in particular, has been especially special—a collaboration with a local boutique that has lasted 15 years and counting. It’s grown into something far beyond business; it’s a relationship rooted in trust, support, and shared passion.

In fact, I’ve already decided that I’ll be celebrating my 20th business anniversary there next year—a full-circle moment that feels incredibly meaningful.

While shifting between these different sectors can be demanding, it ensures that no two days are ever the same. More importantly, it creates opportunities for customers to discover new aspects of the business—often coming in for one service and leaving inspired by another.

With everything we offer, one thing has always remained a top priority: exceptional customer service. I strive to be approachable, friendly, and willing to go the extra mile whenever I can.

I take great pride in my work and deeply appreciate every customer and supporter of my business—and I believe that genuine care is reflected in every piece I create and every interaction I have.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
All of the jewelry we create & sell online: https://fennofashion.com/collections/all

Remembrance Accessories: https://fennofashion.com/collections/all

Permanent Jewelry: https://fennofashion.com/pages/permanent-jewelry-info-faq-booking-the-process

Teaching: https://fennofashion.com/pages/jewelry-making-class-info

The charm bar: https://fennofashion.com/pages/the-charm-bar-info-faq

Laser Engraving: https://fennofashion.com/collections/tiny-treasures-custom-laser-engraved-jewelry

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FENNOFASHION/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fennofashion

Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
Cincinnati has always had a special place in my heart. After growing up here, then then spending 15 years living in different parts of the country, I knew eventually I would want to settle here and put my roots down.

There’s just something special about this city. It’s big enough to offer so much, yet on the Westside it still feels like a small town. The sense of community here is incredible, and I’ve felt supported from the very beginning.

The partnerships I have with small businesses and all of the wonderful people I’ve met from being in business has transformed my life in the best possible way.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://fennofashion.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fennofashion
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FENNOFASHION/