Today’s Notable Young Entrepreneur is fashion designer Jennifer Torosian, whose designs are made from a unique blend of fabrics that is both eye-catching and utilitarian. Here’s what inspired her career and where she sees herself in five years…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
I am a fashion designer for my brand, Jennifer Torosian. We design for the woman who is inspired by fashion, technology and design. Our aesthetic is streamlined with a focus on new fabric technologies, sport aesthetics and clean treatments. We combine a unique blend of fabrics, tailoring, and the utilitarian spirit for ease and relevance.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
I started my brand because I wanted creative freedom. It allows me to design without any restrictions. I am able to explore my personal point of view in fashion.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
The best part of my job is overseeing the development process of an idea and watching it come to life. I am involved with each collection from start to finish, so when I finally get to see the final look on a model, it is very rewarding.
The most challenging part is editing down the collection and finalizing styles to go with the fabrics, and meeting deadlines.
What is one sign that you’ve seen over the years to suggest that your work/life balance is off?
When I can’t take a weekend off.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
We would like to be sold internationally within the next five years.
What is one major challenge that you’ve had to overcome in your career? How did you overcome it?
Finding the right team to achieve and meet our high standards.
What does success look like to you? Does Money = Happiness?
Success is seeing a happy and confident client; having other people enjoy our designs.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
The most memorable milestone in my career would have to be seeing our clothes in print.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Gain as much as experience as you can in the field that most interests you. Do your research and know the market before you begin. Ask yourself the hard questions: Who am I? What do I want? What is my purpose? Keep asking until you find the answers.
Where is your favourite place to wine/ dine in your city and why?
With friends, I enjoy Byblos or Terroni. For a romantic dinner, I go to Sotto Sotto.
When you’re not working how do you love to spend your “Me” time?
I love to travel, so usually it is a vacation or a quick getaway when I can. Otherwise, spending Saturday relaxing in the park or going to the farmers market.
Where is your favourite place to travel? Why?
I love Paris – I would like to live there one day. The vibe there is so great – there is just something in the air. I enjoy the cafes, museums, fashion and lifestyle.
If you weren’t doing what you’re doing, what would you be doing?
I would be in another field that allowed me to be creative on a different capacity.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
I currently support the Canadian Red Cross because of their humanitarian work and disaster relief. Having systems in place to support people in devastating situations is important.
What to you is notable?
Notable is courage, kindness and patience.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
iPhone.
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