Jessica Wolpert, the owner and sole operator of Wolpert’s Woodworking, has been crafting handmade furniture and decor since 2020. Based in Vancouver, Wolpert initially started by building coffee tables but quickly expanded her offerings to include custom charcuterie boards, trays, shelves, and more. Driven by a passion for woodworking nurtured from a young age, Wolpert launched her business during the pandemic after discovering a growing demand for her unique, natural wood creations. Her commitment to craftsmanship, affordability, and supporting women in her community has helped her stand out in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Wolpert’s products can be found in local artisan stores, but she also sells directly to customers, ensuring personalized service and lower costs.
What is your business called and what does it do?
My business name is Wolpert’s Woodworking. I’ve been operating since 2020- I went through a name change in 2023. I was originally known as Westcoast Woodworking- but I thought it was a very generic name and I wanted my business name to mean something to me and sound unique. I have used my last name for my business Jessica Wolpert = Wolpert’s Woodworking.
I started making coffee tables but- I do anything from Tables, Charcuterie Boards, Trays, Mantles, Shelves, Wall Art, Benches, and more.
However, my top 2 items are Coffee Tables & Charcuterie Boards.
What made you want to do this work?
I’ve always been a very handy person. My dad is in the construction industry and from a very young age I have helped him with jobs including learning new trades and helping with labor work activity. I love getting my hands dirty and learning new skills-, Learning never stops 🙂
I first thought about it in High School in Grade 10. I was intrigued and really wanted to join the carpentry/woodworking course. However, the fact that I knew I was going to be one of the only girls scared me away a bit however my dad pushed me to try it out. In addition, I fell absolutely in love with it. The guys in my class were definitely great supporters and I felt very very comfortable. I decided to take it all the way up to Grade 12; I even took an independence Course where I was able to work on woodworking projects at home and at school. I’m an extremely driven person that loves a challenge- in 2020 when Covid hit I decided to start selling a few tables and I saw it really took off- so I decided to start my own company.
Woodworking is very satisfying- seeing a raw piece of wood and turning it into something beautiful is one of my favorite parts.
What problem did you want to solve with the business?
I wanted to provide a product to customers that is reliable, beautiful and affordable. My business took off very quickly because my price range was very affordable and that’s how I was able to grow my clientele. It is also very rare to see a young woman woodworker in this type of product line. Having natural products where no products look alike. Many other woodworkers has products that look extremely similar in shape and style. I like to differentiate myself by sticking to natural shapes and not using epoxy. Because natural wood is always timeless.
Who are your clientele/demographics?
My clientele/demographics is mostly women – I would say about 80%. I have all age groups buying from me, mostly I would say (35+) is my main demographic. I believe that woman-supporting woman has a huge effect. In all the Craft markets I attend I have a picture of myself which states I am the owner and operator and that really intrigues people to support me. – The reason I added my image is that everyone who came into my booth always thought that I did these markets for someone else and that I was just the sales rep- but I wanted to make sure people knew it was my business. I believe it also makes people more comfortable asking questions about anything related to woodworking because I am a woman.
How does your business make money? How does it work?
I make everything out of my parents’ carport- so my overhead costs are not high. I make everything myself- the only outsourcing I do is buying the wood from my local supplier. Therefore, I am able to keep costs down. I am extremely thankful for my families support. I have a great sander from Festool that makes the job easier and makes the products smooth.
Where in the city can we find your profession?
I have a few of my products in local stores including Artisan Collective in North Vancouver and Artisan Gifts & Flowers in Coquitlam. However, all my products can be bought directly through me. All my available products are on my website and direct pickup is available. This way I can keep the costs down for customers that buy directly through me.
What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.
A woodworker should be able to showcase a portfolio of similar projects that align with the customer’s vision. They should show great communication skills. Tell them about different wood species and include what the difference is between a hardwood and softwood. They should emphasize their commitment to craftsmanship, customization, and attention to detail, ensuring that the final product meets the customer’s expectations.
What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?
· Best Part: Being able to make a product at a reasonable price. Being able to put a smile on someone’s face. Being able to communicate with a client openly.
· Worst Part: Some Projects need lots of sanding done. When some pieces have a crack in the wood and I need to epoxy it- I really dislike working with epoxy.
What is your favourite joke about your own profession?
I don’t really have one. The only thing I find funny is that at every single market I go to I always have a man walking in and you can see that they woodwork from a mile away and they say a comment like “Oh I do this too, nice” & “I’ve been working with wood too”.
I have to say at the beginning it was extremely annoying and my boyfriend was like does it not bother you? Honestly, I see it as a compliment and laugh about it that they have to walk into my booth, get ideas say they do it too and walk away.
Where can we follow you?
Website | Instagram | Facebook | Email
PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?
I love “ J Shine Bright J”. They are a local company that focuses on natural products such as Whipped Tallow body butter. I love her products and definitely recommend her.
