Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
I am a celebrity stylist, costume designer and the store owner of Gilding the Lily. I keep on top of latest collections and put together looks for my clients based on their taste and current trends. I love using accessories to enhance a look, which is what brought me to owning my own jewelry/accessories store.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
I started styling 14 years ago at my first assistant fashion editor position at Nylon Magazine in New York City. I was obsessed with fashion and I specifically liked the street style that Nylon projected, which was such a fresh concept at that time. It was a really inspiring to be a part of such a cool time in fashion.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis?
The most rewarding part of my job is seeing someone come alive when they put on a look that makes them feel amazing. As far as day to day, I love the fact that every day of my job is different – it’s an adventure.
The most challenging part?
The most challenging part is managing clients’ and my own expectations. There may be five A-listers who all want to wear a certain gown for an awards show that there’s only one of, so only one will get to wear it!
What is one sign that you’ve seen over the years to suggest that your work/life balance is off?
One tell-tale sign that my work to life balance is off is when I don’t know what day of the week it is. This isn’t a 9-5 job, it is a 24/7 job. There is a need to master the art of politely saying “No.”
Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years I will hopefully have opened a second store and just be living the dream. Which for me means doing what I love with who I love around me.
What is one major challenge that you’ve had to overcome in your career? How did you overcome it?
One major challenge I have had to overcome is my crazy schedule, like having one client in New York who needs me on the same day as another client in LA. I handle it by finding and training great people to help me with clients.
What does success look like to you? Does Money = Happiness?
I define my personal success by finding the balance between my family, work and personal life. Money does not = happiness.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
The most memorable milestone in my career was when I transitioned from being an assistant for Rachel Zoe (for five years) to doing my own styling gigs. It was scary at first but so exciting at the same time. Then obviously opening my own store is a major milestone as well.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
My advice is to not be afraid to try something new. Freedom is often on the other side.
Where is your favourite place to wine/ dine in your city and why?
My favourite place in LA is Pace in Laurel Canyon because it’s cozy. My favourite restaurant in Toronto lately has been El Catrin at the Distillery, Bindya, Tabule and Lady Marmalade. I love the restaurants in Toronto.
When you’re not working how do you love to spend your “Me” time?
I spend my me time doing hot yoga, going to check out new stores and spas, reading and, most importantly, going to the beach.
Where is your favourite place to travel? Why?
My favorite place to vacation is Fiji although I’m dying to go to South America.
If you had to choose a theme song, what would it be?
I absolutely love music and it’s nearly impossible to choose one theme song, but today it would be This Must Be the Place by Talking Heads.
If you weren’t doing what you’re doing, what would you be doing?
I would be a painter/artist.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
I support a number of charities including St. Jude Children’s Hospital, the Red Cross, Baby2Baby, Feed the Deed and Los Angeles Mission.
What to you is notable?
Notable is creating something new.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
Android.
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