“Be positive and be happy—you could change someone's day.” So goes the motto of Cat and Jei, owners of Northpark’s unique store, CJei CharmZ. Originally from Memphis, the pair moved down to Jackson as part of a team transition with their former retail jobs. As soon as they arrived here, unfortunately, Covid-19 sent the world into lockdown. They quickly decided that they wanted something different for their lives as well as the life of their daughter. They luckily had the skills and training to start their own business and set about making that a reality.
When considering the core of their business, they sat down with their daughter and asked for her input. “Kids love Jibbitz,” Cat said, “and the rest was history.” The decorative pins on Crocs are a huge trend with the footwear; people can mix and match their Jibbitz to their personal style. Cat and Jei ran with the idea and began running pop-up shops around the metro area before meeting the owner of Northpark.
Connecting with people in their community has pushed their business forward, allowing them to join the APB Boutique in the mall and later open their own kiosk on the upper level of Northpark. Cat and Jei knew they did not solely want to sell Jibbitz to their customers. They researched current trends on social media, seeking something that would make their business stand out. It led to the discovery of the frozen candy grapes craze on TikTok. They tapped into what people liked and created their own Fun Dip for a variety of fruits. Their Shakin’ Treats took off thanks to their exposure online. Customers will love the original candied grapes as well as pineapple and strawberry, which are Jei’s personal favorites. Those that prefer something a little more savory will fall in love with their Spicy Bowls made of pickled sausages, jalapenos, banana peppers, pickles, and pickled eggs.
It’s Cat and Jei’s wish not only to provide delicious, one-of-a-kind treats to customers, but also to connect with them, treating them with the respect and kindness each of them deserves. Outside of their business, they are also connecting with the youth in their community through a basketball team. It’s important to them to teach young people that their character and worth matter. “You’re royalty and you’re an inspiration,” Jei said. “You can become what you dream if you work hard and hold on to your character.” Not only do they connect with kids through sports, but they also discuss their goals and dreams, encouraging them to put their minds to whatever they want to do.
CJei CharmZ is located on the second floor of Northpark beside Belk and Shoe Department. You can find them in Ridgeland Thursdays and Fridays from 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 1:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays through Wednesdays are reserved for pick-ups and deliveries only. Visit their website at cjeicharmz.com. Follow them at @cjei.charmz on Instagram and @cjeicharmz on TikTok.
