(Byline: Johnny Hoffman Photography (JHP), Marvin Striggles Photography, Nai-Tsang Cheng Photography. This article is part of the Fashion Uncorked 2013 competing designers interview series.)
Fashion Uncorked is an annual designer competition and fashion show presented by the Easter Seals of North Georgia. It is the brain child of Easter Seals’ Economic Development Coordinator, Norma Center. Easter Seals of North Georgia is a 501(c)3 non profit organization that works with families in the areas of early education, disabilities and special needs.
The top ten (10) competing designers for Fashion Uncorked were selected on December 4, 2012 in a private ceremony, at the Defoor Centre, but their identities were released to the public on December 8, 2012.
The Defoor Center
1710 Defoor Avenue NW
Atlanta, Georgia 30318
On January 13, 2013, Atlanta Fashion Examiner (AFE) took a moment to catch up with Fashion Uncorked competing designer, Vanessa Henderson (VH).
Vanessa Henderson’s first impression presentation is as a soft spoke, strong personality that has the drive to accomplish anything that she sets her mind to. Self proclaimed as easy to work with and talk to, within minutes of being in Henderson’s presence, the sentiment is concurred by AFE.
“My gift is from God and He can use me as He pleases. I know that there is good in everyone. My gift will not only help me, but will help others.” ~ Vanessa Henderson, Fashion Designer of Van Miller.
AFE: What is your brand name/moniker?
VH: My brand name is Van Miller. Van is short for Vanessa, my first name, and Miller is my mother’s maiden name. Van Miller represents “a beautiful butterfly with life”.
AFE: What aesthetic does your brand provide?
VH: My aesthetic is evening wear and haute couture.
AFE: Have you identified your target market?
VH: Yes, I have. My target market is age 18 and up. My price points are in range of after hour, evening wear boutique and high end retail. Garments are custom made, hand constructed by me.
AFE: How did you come to be a fashion designer?
VH: I’m a self taught designer, but I have attended fashion school for design as well. This is my first designer competition. I feel I’m ready for the next level.
AFE: What is your biggest hurdle you have had to overcome in pursuit of your fashion design career? What was your biggest fashion design achievement?
VH: [I have had to learn to] have faith to really believe in my work. [Progress within] the last year has really let me know that it can happen. Over the last few months, [Van Miller has been in] on several magazine covers and worked with the stylists of several celebrities.
“I’m a designer with a purpose, knowing that I can’t do everything by myself. I know that you have to allow others to help you get to the place you are going.” ~ Vanessa Henderson, Fashion Designer of Van Miller.
Not yet in stores nor having an online/e-commerce presence, potential consumers may contact Vanessa Henderson for Van Miller garments at vdmiller1958@yahoo.com, houseofvanmiller@gmail.com or 404-290-2239.
The Fashion Uncorked Fashion show is scheduled to be held on Saturday, February 9, 2013 at the America’s Mart/Apparel Mart.
America’s Mart/Apparel Mart
250 Spring Street, 15th Floor
Atlanta, Georgia 30303
February 9, 2013
6:00pm – 10:00pm
(includes wine reception, silent auction and live entertainment)
Tickets range in price from $25 to $75.
The Fashion Uncorked 2013 hosts are Christina Pullara and Dr. Courtney Hammonds. The VIP show and red carpet host is Renee Knorr. The judges are: Rafael Cox, Erica Benoit, Mori Green, Sherie J. Nevett, Mary Jo Miller, and Tracee Dundas.
To acquire your very own Van Miller garments, contact Vanessa Henderson for Van Miller garments at vdmiller1958@yahoo.com, houseofvanmiller@gmail.com or 404-290-2239.
For more information about Easter Seals of North Georgia, please visit the official Easter Seals of North Georgia website.
For media inquiries, contact Lenora Bowler Wood, of Elle Nora Agency, at 404-840-0516 or lenora@ellanoraagency.com.
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