Mena Tees, Trophies and Graphics

BY JACLYN ROSE –

Jennifer Gabourel was raised in South Polk County, and graduated from Wickes High School in 1992.  After completing some college courses she began her career at Rose Aircraft Services.  For 17 years Gabourel work as an office manager. During this time she picked up the art of graphic design.  “I began working developing graphics in 2004; I also began learning how to cut vinyl.  A lot of this was self taught but I enjoyed being stretched creatively,” explained Gabourel.

Gabourel married her husband, Hubie, in 2002.  “Hubie and I had been friends for many years before we married.  I am thankful for such a supportive husband, he is always there for us,” said Gabourel.  Together they have three children: Andrew, who is a sophomore at Southern Arkansas University and a graduate of Mena High School; Trevor, a junior at Mena High School; and Makori, a sixth grader at Mena Middle School.  With her children very involved in Future Farmers of America, 4-H and the High School Band, Gabourel finds that she spends a lot of her time helping raise show goats on their 30 head goat farm, Five Star Wethers, or in the stands cheering on the local teams.  A member of the Polk County Fair Board, Gabourel is always looking for a way to support the livestock community in Polk County.

In July of 2014, Gabourel started Mena Tees, Trophies and Graphics, located at 506 Highway 71 South, in the most recent Epic Tees and Trophies location, across from the train depot.  Mena Tees, Trophies and Graphics, hosts two impressive silk screen presses but also engraves, prints banners, etches glass, prints vinyl, creates memorable wedding and baby gifts, and can personalize just about anything. Gabourel works hard with her clients to create designs and logos especially for them. She can also take an existing logo and turn it into a T-shirt, banner, or almost anything her client desires.

“I started working out of my home, on the side, creating custom designs and banners for friends and family years ago.  I make personalized tiles and wooden signs for wedding gifts, baby gifts, housewarmings and of course, Christmas and have done that for a long time.  With Mena Tees, Trophies and Graphics, I’m excited to add screen printing and trophy engraving to my previous business.  My goal when I started this business was to help keep T-shirts and graphics affordable in Mena.  I will do whatever I can to keep business local.  I am happy to work with the schools, ball teams, local businesses, fundraising groups, and individuals to offer the best price on their graphic, engraving, and screen printing needs,” explained Gabourel.  You can reach Mena Tees, Trophies and Graphics by calling 479.394.3742 or 479.234.2060 or by stopping by the shop Monday through Friday from 9 am until 5 pm.

“I love Polk County, I loved growing up here and I love raising my children here.  The people are so friendly and always so willing to help each other out.  Any time I have left Arkansas I am so ready to come back.  This is the greatest place in the world.  I look forward to serving the people in my hometown,” said Gabourel.

About Author

Jeri Pearson

Jeri is the News Director for Pulse Multi-Media and Editor of The Polk County Pulse. She has 10 years of experience in community focused journalism and has won multiple press association awards.

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