About

Why did we start this business?

The Blue Butterfly founder, Jamie Hergott, has been involved with anti-human trafficking efforts for over ten years. She currently works as a Mentor Coach for Allies, Inc., an Indianapolis-based non-profit committed to "empowering survivors of trafficking & sexual exploitation through awareness, prevention education & connection."

In the winter of 2019, Jamie became a mentor for the first time with Allies, Inc. She was matched with a mentee (called M to protect her privacy). As their relationship grew, Jamie got a front row seat to the harrowing and grueling and joy-filled life of a trafficking survivor. They went on nature walks together, shopped at Farmer's Markets and cooked together, and ordered takeout while watching Netflix. A bond was created.

Butterflies are significant for M. They remind her of her mother, who passed away when M was small. They signify hope and remind M she is not alone. M's favorite color is blue.

Jamie, inspired by the tenacity and courage of M, decided to name her shop after the symbols of hope in M's life. Thus, the Blue Butterfly came to be. 

Jamie's long-term vision is to grow a business that sells encouraging and inspirational pieces in hopes to one day be able to offer job training opportunities for trafficking survivors. The need for trauma-informed, patient, and compassionate work places are scarce. What better way to fill the gap than to create a survivor-informed business with trauma-trained staff to help support survivors in their journeys.