Jackson Free Press

Courtney Chinn Peters may look every bit the part of a hip, young shop girl. But what you don't know is that at age 25, this gifted ceramicist and successful entrepreneur isn't just a pretty face behind a counter—this woman's the boss.

Mosaic, an eclectic home accessories, art and antiques store in the historic Fondren Corner building, is a labor of love that allows Peters to continue creating her own artwork (original ceramic pieces and paintings) while showcasing her penchant for distinctive furniture and unique trimmings to an eager Jackson clientele. Who said expertise has to come with age? We think Peters has the eye and savoir faire of a seasoned professional.

What led you to open a business at such a young age?
It really just kind of fell into place in the end, but I've always wanted to open a store. I have a degree in fine arts with an emphasis in ceramics. The arts are something I've always been in love with. My husband, Sam Peters, said: "We have this great little spot that nobody's using for anything. You can fix it up and it would be a cool small store if you want to go for it." And I said, "Sure!" [Mosaic's original location was on State Street north of the Fondren Corner building.] I had my studio in the back, and the front retail space was just like this but smaller. I opened there in September 2006, and then moved up here to Fondren Corner on Oct. 1, 2007.

What's it like to be a part of this historic building and the Fondren community?
It's been great here. It's like one big family; we all know each other well, and it's very laid back. Everybody's supportive of each other, but at the same time, we're diverse, so it's a good balance. My husband and his dad (Mike Peters) have done a lot to help improve this area with development, so we all have a love for this community. It's the perfect place for my store because it's becoming the arts district. I love seeing Downtown coming back.

Tell me more about your fine arts degree and ceramics work?
I went to school at Ole Miss and graduated in May 2005. I keep the old store space as my studio. I make ceramic decorative pieces, service pieces and ornaments. I'm trying to come up with something different lately: more organic shapes and designs like my ceramic roses, hand building and free-form work. I like melting glass and make some of my own glazes. I got into Handworks Market this year and will be at Mistletoe Marketplace as well. I'm busy getting a lot of work done now for the fall.

Any advice for young women who'd like to go into business for themselves?
You know, it's a lot of hard work. There are ups and downs, of course. But you just have to keep going. It's something that you really have to dedicate yourself to. If you don't love what you do 100 percent, it won't work. But if you love something, go for it!

What's in a Name?

Peters wanted the diverse offerings of Mosaic to be adequately represented through the store's name. Like the giant mosaic on the front wall as you walk into her space, her merchandise is an eclectic mix of jewelry, furniture and accessories chosen to form a cohesive whole.