Handmade in California
Handmade in California
Pet coasters were the very first product I ever made. The short of it is: I adore my sister’s dachshund, Brooklyn, and wanted to make her a meaningful gift with his name engraved. From there, I had several other friends and family who wanted their dogs on coasters too! Who knew making some family gifts could turn into all this?
Hi! I’m Jenna, the maker behind Budobo.
I’m a California native living in the San Francisco Bay Area, where I work as a sonographer by day and spend my evenings creating in my home studio. While healthcare is incredibly rewarding, creating has always been the place where I feel most like myself.
I’ve always been someone who needs to make things with my hands. Creativity is my outlet—it’s where I pour my joy, ideas, and imagination. Long before Budobo existed, I was making handmade gifts for my nieces and nephew, designing personalized keepsakes, and creating every birthday and holiday card by hand. If I can make something instead of buying it, I almost always will.
My creative journey took a new direction in 2020 when I purchased my first Glowforge laser. Due in large part to the pandemic and targeted ads for laser cutters, I filled my quarantined days by teaching myself how to use the Glowforge. Soon after, I taught myself resin art through plenty of trial and error, experimenting until I developed techniques and finishes that felt authentic. Every piece in my shop is designed, laser crafted, hand-finished, and carefully packaged by me in my home studio.
My biggest inspiration comes from one of my favorite places in the world: Napili Bay on Maui. Every year I find myself back on the island, where some of my happiest moments are spent listening to the waves, sipping a tropical cocktail, sharing small bites with family, and watching the sun melt into the Pacific. That feeling of peace, warmth, and effortless island living finds its way into so many of my creations—from ocean resin boards to coastal home décor and personalized keepsakes.
One of my favorite parts of crafting is working with customers to create something that I have never before imagined. Whether it’s a personalized gift, a custom sign, or a one-of-a-kind design, I love turning someone’s vision into something they will enjoy for years. I’m also a bit of a perfectionist, so every detail matters. I won’t mail out a piece until it’s something I’d proudly display in my own home.
People often ask where the name Budobo comes from. It’s actually been my nickname since I was a teenager! Somehow my name, Jenna, evolved into “Bo Benna,” which over time turned into “Budobo,” thanks largely to my brother-in-law. The nickname stuck, and when it came time to name my business, it just felt right. Budobo has always been me, so it only made sense that it would be the name behind everything I create.
At the end of the day, Budobo is simply me, creating from my home studio with wood, resin, and a whole lot of heart. Every order is made with care, attention to detail, and genuine gratitude that you’ve chosen to support a small business.
Thank you for stopping by. I hope something I create brings a little bit of the joy, warmth, and coastal spirit that inspires me every day into your home.
With gratitude,
Jenna
