During one of my classes Ms. Martinez approached me saying Laurie needed someone at 2 pm that day and then at 6am the following day. I immediately took care of the required paperwork and took the opportunity - this was a chance to network and that’s key in the industry.
At 2 pm I arrived at the Tejon Outlets and officially met with Laurie, she was bubbly, kind, and everything I aspire to be. That day we ran around the outlet center for 4 hours putting together 4 outfits that fit the fall trends. The segment we were going to film was to air on a KBAK-TV 29 news segment on (it aired on September 27, 2017). The day was very long and exhausting, but very eye opening as to the work of a stylist. I found it key that the same vibe and energy you walk in with should be the same you walk out with no matter how exhausted you might be.
The following morning I arrived at the KBAK studios where Laurie and I set up a table with fall trends (i.e. - boots, scarfs, hats, bags). We dressed and styled our models with the outfits for our two segments. Everything ran smoothly and I got the chance to use my photography skills because Laurie wanted me to capture the details of the looks on the models. Overall, this experience was so fun and much needed.
Laurie and I intend to reconnect when she comes back for the holidays in November and December. Being around someone like Laurie, helped remind me why you should do what you love and why you shouldn’t give up no matter what people say. Recently, I found myself questioning being an entrepreneur in the fashion industry because adult figures had been shooting me down and had been only filling my head with doubts. Being able to see Laurie start all by herself and be so accomplished was a reminder that anything’s possible if you just keep working on it.
I’m so grateful for this opportunity that being in the ROC Fashion Merchandising Program has given me and I can’t wait to experience other opportunities.
By Jessica Flores, Senior, Centennial High School & ROC Fashion Merchandising