Jennifer Smith
Jennifer is the founder and maker at Nightshade Hat Co. based on Orcas Island in Washington state. Born and raised in Alaska and transplanted to the PNW, her love for hats was born out of necessity from years of working outdoors as a sea kayak guide and gardener where sun protection was crucial.
Drawing from her nearly 15 years as a professional gardener, Jennifer creates hats inspired by and designed for real life outdoors - resilient, thoughtfully made, and naturally stylish. Each piece is created by hand using traditional millinery tools and time-honored techniques, resulting in durable, heritage quality hats that blend practically with a timeless aesthetic. She balances hat making along with her full time job managing the gardens on a private estate. Jennifer also offers private and group hat making workshops on Orcas Island, as well as traveling workshops for parties and special events.
