Joanna Gaines' Journey Before 'Fixer Upper': Discover Her Unexpected Career Path

It’s hard to imagine a world where Joanna Gaines wasn’t designing dream homes or charming audiences with her warm personality. But before she and Chip Gaines took the world by storm with Fixer Upper, Joanna had a completely different career. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and uncover how this beloved HGTV star found her way to fame and fortune. Keep reading for the full scoop!

From Tires to Tabletops: Joanna Gaines’ Career Before 'Fixer Upper'

Long before Joanna was transforming houses into stunning masterpieces, she was working in a very different industry—tires. Yep, you read that right! Joanna spent her early years working at her father’s tire shop, a place she thought she’d eventually take over when he retired. In a heartfelt Instagram post from June 2019, Joanna opened up about her experience at the family business and the pivotal moment that changed her life forever.

“I always thought I would take over his shop when he retired. That was the plan,” Joanna wrote. “But then I met Chip, and I started realizing I had some hidden dreams buried deep in my heart. I was scared to let my dad down, though. When he realized I was ready for something new, he pulled me aside and encouraged me to follow my heart. That conversation was a game-changer for me.” Joanna’s dad not only gave her permission to chase her dreams but also gave her the confidence to step into the world of design and renovation. Talk about a supportive parent!

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How Chip and Joanna Gaines Became Famous

After tying the knot in 2003, Chip and Joanna rolled up their sleeves and got to work on their first home renovation project. It wasn’t exactly smooth sailing, though. Their first house was a bit of a fixer-upper itself, with quirky features like sailboats in the living room, a mustard-yellow, French-themed kitchen, and rustic cedar-paneled walls in the den. “I guess I was testing out my style,” Joanna joked to HGTV, looking back on that initial renovation. Despite the challenges, the couple’s hard work and creativity paid off. Photos of their transformation were eventually featured on the blog Design Mom in January 2012, catching the attention of HGTV producers.

Fast forward to May 2013, and Chip and Joanna were filming the pilot for Fixer Upper. The show was such a hit that HGTV quickly greenlit a full season, catapulting the Gaines family into the spotlight. Talk about a dream come true!

The End of an Era: When Did 'Fixer Upper' End?

After five unforgettable seasons, Fixer Upper aired its final episode in January 2018. But for Chip and Joanna, it wasn’t the end—it was just the beginning. The couple has since poured their energy into expanding their Magnolia brand, including launching the Magnolia Network and opening the Magnolia Market shopping center. On top of running a successful empire, they’re also raising their five adorable kids: Drake, Ella Rose, Duke, Emmie Kay, and Crew. How do they do it all? Joanna shared her secret in an August 2019 issue of Magnolia Journal.

“I deeply love being a wife and a mother, and I find a profound sense of purpose in my work,” Joanna wrote. “No matter what fills your life—marriage, kids, work, relationships, or a project you’re devoted to—I truly believe that when we show up fully for the things we care about, we’ll find meaning and fulfillment. It’s not about balance; it’s about being present.” Joanna’s words are a powerful reminder that we don’t need to have it all figured out to live a meaningful life.