Today we’d like to introduce you to Erika Everett.
Hi Erika, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Self-expression through fashion has always been a passion of mine. As a little girl, I remember wearing troll doll earrings and dressing up for awards ceremonies in grade school just for the fun of being a girl. I would not have imagined after graduating from the University of Florida and managing a day spa and personal training studio that I would ever pick up a sewing machine and start a business designing fab gowns. However, 2012 proved me wrong when I discovered my very first table-top sewing machine that I purchased from Craig’s List.
Had I ever touched a sewing machine before, you may ask? Heavens no! The only sewing influence I had was hand stitching and embroidery taught to me by my grandmother. However, my lack of experience did not stop me from getting a sewing machine… and figuring it out – as most entrepreneurs do! With the assistance of my mother and “YouTube University”, I became “self-taught” and began to learn how to use “Bella”. I first started out making custom accessories (earrings, bow ties, clutches). One day, I decided to make an outfit for myself, and soon thereafter requests started coming and designing custom pieces for others took on a life of its own. A few years, stitches, and many sewing machines later, The Glitter Agency now serves and “slays” clients for their special moments that require an unapologetic touch.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
The road has been filled with winding turns, boulders, deer in the middle of the road, flat tires, and many more unexpected but oh-so necessary challenges, lessons, and blessings in my business. Every garment has not been a success and every idea and investment has not been profitable. As I continue growing as a designer and businesswoman, I have learned the importance of communication and transparency with clients. In the early stages, I would find that in my aim to please my customers, I would bite my tongue and hold back on advising them on the proper designs suitable for their body type and within my area of knowledge. And during fittings, the truth would be revealed. I now realize and value my expertise, craft, attention to detail and clear communication regarding silhouette, quality fabrics and design aesthetic. These vital elements assist in providing a seamless experience which saves a lot of time, money and frustration for the client and company.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about The Glitter Agency?
The Glitter Agency is a full-service fashion design company for custom special occasion garments, photoshoots, styling, and e-courses for emerging seamstresses (beginner’s to advanced). TGA serves an array of custom requests from red carpet appearances, gala affairs, prom, bridal parties, and black tie celebrations. Our unique trait that sets us apart is the ability to bring art into fashion with out-of-the-box, unapologetic construction and stylish, avant-garde expression.
As owner and lead designer, it is pertinent that I establish a professional, trusting rapport with every client. To me, a custom design is more than a garment request, it is an opportunity to participate in a special moment one will remember and cherish. Jokingly, I remind my clients, “it’s not just your dress, IT’S OURS so it’s a must that it be fabulous -let’s go for over-the-top and dramatic!” They trust me to bring their vision to life so they can experience their moment with satisfaction and confidence while knowing they look AMAZING, and I do not take that mission lightly.
I am referred to as the “Fairy SLAYmother’ because I specialize in silhouette, waist-snatch and slay! I use specially designed patterns to create jaw-dropping, hour-glass silhouettes through the art of allusion. Over time I have witnessed most women do not know or are ashamed of their measurements, and at The Glitter Agency I make it my goal to create a safe, encouraging space to embrace their curves. During consultations, we discuss the vision of their look, finalize details regarding fit and fabrics, and log measurements for proper pattern fit. 80% of the time, women display a sense of insecurity and silent cringe of what the measurement numbers read, I assure them, “curves are welcome and celebrated at The Glitter Agency.” Because the dress is nothing without the confidence to back it up.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
There are MANYYYY to highlight but I would have to say being surprised with my first puppy. I remember begging my parents for a dog and the agreement was if I did chores all summer long, they would think about it. A few days before school started, I walked into the kitchen and saw dog bowls, in the living room laid the cutest, golden brown, furry Cocker Spaniel – Cinnamon Bun Everett. He gave us 17 years of joy from one summer of chores.
Contact Info:
- Email: theglitteragency@gmail.com
- Website: www.theglitteragency.com
- Instagram: @theglitteragency
- Facebook: The Glitter Agency
