Why J9? The Story Behind the Name

J9 Brandworks began with a name that’s been part of me since high school. It started as a nickname — “J” for Jeannine, and “nine,” the last four letters of my name. It was playful, intuitive, and somehow just fit. Over time, J9 became more than a handle; it became my digital signature, my creative shorthand, and the one piece of my identity that stayed constant through every chapter of life.

It was my first AOL username (yes, that far back), and it’s followed me across every social handle, every creative project, and now, into the heart of my business. Last names may come and go but Jeannine remains constant. And J9? It’s the part that never wavers. It’s mine.

When I launched my consultancy, I knew I wanted a name that felt personal but had room to grow. Something that could hold strategy, creativity, and legacy in one breath. J9 was the obvious choice. It’s not just a nickname—it’s a symbol of continuity, evolution, and emotional resonance. It reflects the kind of work I do: helping people build brands that feel true to who they are and where they’re going.

And here’s a fun twist I uncovered while researching the name: a lot of “Jeannines” go by J9. It’s like a quiet sisterhood of women who’ve found power in the poetry of their own names. That discovery made me smile—it reminded me that while our stories are personal, they often echo in others. J9 connects me to something bigger than myself.

So yes, J9 Brandworks is about naming, branding, and legacy. But it’s also about honoring the names we carry, the ones we choose, and the ones that choose us. It’s about building something lasting from something deeply personal.

Thanks for being part of the journey.