Today’s Notable Young Entrepreneur is Montreal fashion maven Giovanna De Capua, who used inspiration from her travels around the world to launch two upscale retail stores specializing in evening wear and wedding dresses. We caught up with her to find out what’s next on her agenda and what advice she would share with other young professionals…
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WORK
1. Describe what you do in less than 140 characters. Go.
I own and operate Dresscouture & Ivoire, two upscale retail stores specializing in evening wear and wedding dresses. I am also a consultant for several Canadian fashion brands.
2. What was the inspiration for your career route?
Having an appreciation for beauty and creation led me to graduate from LaSalle College with several aptitudes in the fashion industry. As a former VP and head of design for various prestigious Canadian fashion brands, I have logged thousands of miles researching trends all over the world, from New York to Tokyo, Paris, London, Milan and Los Angeles. After years of accumulating experience working for other brands, I decided to pursue my passion for fashion for my own.
3. What is the most memorable milestone in your career so far?
I’ve had the thrill to dress the who’s who of remarkable, successful Quebec women. My dresses have also been seen at the Grammys, the Oscars, and the Bafta and Actra award ceremonies, but I’m most proud of the fact that a loyal clientele keeps returning to me because they value my opinion and trust that I will offer my absolute best to ensure that they look glamorous.
4. Where do you see yourself in 5 years, 10 years, 20 years?
I am currently in the research and development stage of creating my own couture collection of eveningwear. It will be launched in the near future and I hope to see my collection represented in specialty shops like my own all over the world in the years to follow.
5. Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Nothing great ever comes easy. There is no real secret to achieving success other than working hard and taking risks. Failure and mistakes will be present along the way, but learning from them will only make you stronger. Remember: success is not measured by materialism, but by your love, passion and gratitude for what you do.
6. Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is it (or they) important to you?
I support several cancer research charities. About 40% of men and women will be diagnosed with cancer at some point during their lifetime. Every dollar counts in efforts to reduce the burden of cancer on Canadians.
7. What does the word notable mean to you?
Notable means to be recognized for what you love to do. Sharing your passion with others and making a difference.
PLAY
1. Where is your favorite place to wine/dine in your city and why?
I really enjoy dining at Helena in Old Montreal. Her Portuguese dishes are to die for, but I also love supporting women who are very passionate about their business.
2. What’s the most visited website on your Internet browser?
Other than social media and my very own websites, I frequent many fashion magazine sites in order to stay up to date on the latest trends.
3. Who’s one person you think everyone should be following on social media?
Whoever inspires you. We are all different, with diverse needs and aspirations.
4. What’s your favourite cocktail?
Grey Goose vodka and tonic with a slice of lime.
5. What gives you the greatest FOMO?
Not being able to travel as often as I would like. Visiting cities around the world is what inspires me to create.
6. What would be your last meal? And don’t hold back…
A plate of my mom’s homemade Cavatelli and meatballs.
7. What’s your guiltiest pleasure?
A late-night poutine, any which way!
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