Our Story

Hi, I’m Jennifer McElveen, the heart and hands behind Gifts by Jennie Lee.

I was born in Beaufort, South Carolina, and I still live call Beaufort County home today, now calling Saint Helena Island home. This beautiful place, rich with history, tradition, and close-knit community, has shaped both my life and my creativity.

I learned to crochet about 50 years ago, when I was about five years old, sitting beside my grandmother as she patiently taught me stitch by stitch. What began as a simple lesson became a lifelong passion. Every piece I create today carries the love, care, and tradition she passed down to me.

The name “Jennie Lee” came from a beloved neighbor who gave me the pet name years ago, and it stayed with me. It felt like the perfect name for this journey—familiar, personal, and full of heart.

I’m blessed to share my life with my husband, Mike, and a family I cherish deeply. I have a son, Kenneth, and his wife Brianna, who are parents to my wonderful grandchildren, Elliott and Hadley. My daughter, Kelsey, is the proud mother of my grandson Oliver, who brings so much joy to our family.

I am also incredibly thankful to still have my mother, Regina, and my two siblings, Al and Sonja—a true blessing that I never take for granted.

At Gifts by Jennie Lee, I create unique, handcrafted crochet items, each one made with patience, intention, and love. No two pieces are exactly alike, because they’re made by hand—just like they were when my grandmother first taught me. My hope is that every gift brings warmth, comfort, and a little piece of my story into your home.

Thank you for supporting handmade, supporting small business, and supporting a passion that has been a part of my life for over five decades.

— “Jennie Lee” 🧶💛