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Making a Business Dream Reality

Ana Sebestien

Have you ever dreamed of packing up and moving to St. John to start your own business? One couple had the fortune of making that dream a reality. Here’s their story:

Ana Jaramillo and Sebastien Dessane visited St. John for a mere four days back in 2012. Their stay on the island passed quickly, and soon it was time to head home. They ferried back to St. Thomas and hopped in a taxi only to realized once they arrived at the airport that they had missed their flight. While a missed flight might stress many travelers, Ana and Sebastien simply saw it as a sign.

“We knew we were supposed to stay,” Sebastien said.

Three days later, they returned back home to Miami and began packing up their lives. Six months after that, they moved to St. John with their daughter Laetitia, now four years old.

“We knew that St. John was the place for us,” Ana said. “The community of Coral Bay was so nice to us. The whole community was so very nice to us.”

Upon arriving on St. John, the couple started seeking work opportunities. They immediately took a liking to Full Moon Gallery in Coral Bay.

Full Moon Gallery is located on the second floor in Cocoloba Plaza. Its steps are located to the side of Aqua Bistro. The gallery opened back in 2008. Ana and Sebastian assumed ownership in June 2013.

Full Moon Gallery sells work from more than 50 different artists and craftsmen, all of whom are local. From turned wood to ceramics to paintings, the gallery offers unique pieces that are true representations of the island.
Full Moon Gallery

In addition to its art pieces, Full Moon also has a special room where recycled goods are stored. They refer to it more as upcycling, as opposed to recycling, as people are encouraged to give a second life to a variety of glass pieces, kites and fabric.

The gallery has become a gathering place of sorts as local children congregate at the second floor shop each afternoon. much to the delight of little Laetitia.

Full Moon Gallery is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. It is open from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. If you’re planning to visit, you may want to call ahead as hours may vary.

6 thoughts on “Making a Business Dream Reality”

  1. This is the sweetest and most hard working couple on the island! They do a great job and are just so friendly. STJ is lucky to have them.

  2. Ana, Sebastien, Laetitia and Nicola,

    It was such a pleasure to see you guys again. You made our trip to St. John so memorable! Your gallery is beautiful and
    Your children are so smart and adorable.
    We can’t wait to come back! You guys rock! See you soon.
    Brian Whitehouse

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