Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Stano
Hi Jennifer, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My name is Jennifer Stano, and I am originally from Westchester, New York. Growing up, I attended White Plains High School, where I was a varsity cheerleader and flyer. During my senior year of high school, I worked in a hair salon doing makeup and assisting in hair, which sparked my interest in beauty and fashion.
I started my career in the Fitness industry at age 21, quickly becoming the face of major nutrition supplement brands like MET-Rx, BSN and Champion. My work with these brands opened doors to modeling and acting opportunities with top NYC talent agencies like Paradigm and CESD. This success led me to work with world-class couture and beauty houses such as Prada, Miu Miu, True Religion, and Oil of Olay.
In 2009, I moved to Beverly Hills, CA, where I founded Have Faith Swimwear. The brand quickly became a sensation and was showcased at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week, earning global recognition. In 2010, I appeared on the TV show ‘The Spin Crowd,’ produced by Kim Kardashian, and in 2012, I was featured on TLC’s ‘Trophy Wives,’ which highlighted my life as a fashion designer living in Beverly Hills.
In 2013, I moved to London and gave birth to my first son, Niko, in the Lindo Wing at Saint Mary’s Hospital, known for birthing several royal babies. My second son, Konstantino, was born in 2014.
In 2017, along with three partners, we launched WowMoms World, a franchise concept offering multifaceted family-friendly spaces focused on creating clean environments for families. This venture included an organic cafe, play areas, a fitness center, an art studio, a massage room, and a baby swimming spa, with locations across the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Our closest location is right here in Coral Springs, FL with another in Long Island NY.
In 2018, now married to my wife Danielle, we decided to move closer to family and relocated to South Florida. Together, we joined a leading health and wellness company in 2020 and opened our own virtual franchise, achieving top ranks in various areas.
Recently, Danielle and I launched a clothing line project together, ALGND, which stands for aligned and combines both our styles into a unique athleisure brand.
Looking ahead, I am preparing to launch my “Life Project” called Original Self, which focuses on empowering women who, like myself, have undergone Explant surgery or have had a Mastectomy. The line will feature specially designed products that I like to say “give you boobs without having a boob job.” I am incredibly passionate about this brand and extremely excited for its launch.
With over 1 million followers on my social media platforms and a popular blog since 2010 ( www.herplusthem.com ), I am known for my genuine and relatable ‘girl next door’ personality which I am proud of. I have earned my followers’ trust for my clothing, product, and lifestyle recommendations, and I am excited to continue sharing my journey with them.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Launching a brand from scratch is hard! Launching a brand as an adult with multiple responsibilities and children is even harder. Everything takes far longer than expected. Delays are inevitable. There are days when I question if it’s all worth it—did I need to do this, and will it work? But if it was easy, everyone would be doing it, so I try to take a minute and remember the bigger picture.
Sourcing materials and finding quality manufacturing facilities takes time and is frustrating when samples don’t meet expectations. When we initially started with our production advisor, we thought we would launch within six months. Two years later, Original Self is still waiting for her moment to shine.
When I’m feeling discouraged I like to remind myself of the goals I have for myself and my family, how deeply I believe in what I am doing and how much I know these women will benefit from what I’m bringing to the table.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Original Self, also known as OGSLF, is a brand born out of my personal experience and a profound understanding of the need for confidence without compromising health. My journey started in 2019 with my decision to undergo explant surgery (the removal of breast implants), a move that highlighted the gap in the market for products that cater to women who have had similar experiences. We specialize in creating innovative, health-conscious solutions for women who have undergone explant or mastectomy procedures.
What sets us apart is our personal connection to the cause. Original Self was created from my personal journey. My experience with breast implants, having gotten my first of 4 sets at only 18 years old, my health concerns 15 years later and subsequent explant surgery inspired me to develop products designed to restore confidence and comfort when we feel we need it most. While we specifically cater to the needs of the explant and mastectomy communities, our products can be used by everyone. From our sportswear and swimwear lines to our innovative bra and insert designs, we aim to provide stylish, modern and creative yet functional options for all women, including youth and those in the transgender community.
Our products, like the OG Bra, are the result of years of personal trial and development. We prioritize health, comfort, and aesthetics, ensuring that our customers will feel confident and supported with a modern approach. We are also dedicated to building a supportive community where women can share their stories, experiences, and advice with each other. We will offer resources and support for those considering or recovering from explant or mastectomy surgery.
I am proud of my ability to provide solutions that empower women to feel confident without sacrificing their health. Our products are not just about aesthetics; they are about offering support, comfort, and a sense of belonging. It’s as much for me as it is for them.
Original Self is more than just a brand; it’s a movement. Our products include bras and inserts designed to provide comfort and confidence post-explant or mastectomy, stylish and functional sportswear and swimwear for all women, with specific features to accommodate those with unique needs, and a supportive community that offers resources, advice, and a platform for women to connect and share their journeys.
I cannot be more excited to share my vision and dream with the world.
What are your plans for the future?
Getting Original Self launched is just the beginning. I have big plans for this brand, including expanding into various categories, all under the Original Self umbrella as well as creating a Charity where proceeds from each sale will be donated to it and the money from the charity will go towards women who are severely affected by Breast Implant Illness but cannot afford the removal of their implants. I feel really fulfilled when I connect with and get to help other women look and feel their best. This company is my honor.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.OGSLF.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/originalself__
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OGSLF
- Other: https://www.flowcode.com/page/ogslf?utm_term=XZ6hofqhS#fid=XZ6hofqhS&c=1776376d-480f-46d1-aadd-362effd95f4b-SSE:1693186622
