the brand

Far From Pretty is the latest venture from Jennifer James Mayes (“Mayesie”), a designer with her feet firmly planted in multiple camps. Dissatisfied with the idea of needing to “pick a lane”, she launched Far From Pretty to bring the strength of her vision and aesthetic to the public. Far From Pretty is a multi-disciplinary brand, designing both product and space.

From her thirty year tenure in creative direction and graphic design, Jennifer brings her unique perspective to the fore. With experience working as the lead visual director for Fortune 500 companies; training visual teams from store opening construction through top tier volume expansion; creating brand DNA from incubation to launch—Jennifer developed a keen sense of how color and pattern can bring a design to life.

Never one to shy away from the mixing of patterns on herself, Jennifer now brings this love to her designs. You’ll find her in Chicago, living in her 1950s cottage, with her family and large pack of animals. She’ll most likely be in stripes or glitter—and will be designing something special, just for you.

the lady

For my own work, my mediums have varied, but my aesthetic remains steadfast.
Small scale stationery led to mid scale gift wrap, which led to large scale wallpaper. Along the way, with pencil always in hand, people started to notice my work and enjoy my point of view. Equal points weird and whimsical, this combination led me to the creation of illustration and patterns you will not find elsewhere. I so look forward to what is next, and invite you to reach out if what you see here is your cup of tea. I’m looking forward to connecting with
you soon.

favorite things

• Hand written thank you notes

• Polka dotted hair ribbons

• Wonky teeth

• Chocolate ganache

• The weight of a real book

• Wide leg pants

• Fancy drinks with tiny paper umbrellas

• The power of bright red lipstick

• Songs with hand-claps

• Pom pom fringe

• Caftans

• Wee cats and large dogs

• Eating pastry by the sea