Circle of Faith...
I spent the last few years really searching for a way to give women a truly special gift - clothes that fit HER and make a statement. I grew up in a small town, and while I have left that small town, I never grew out of the atmosphere. I am now living in another small town, South Bend, IN. I've always had big, crazy ideas, but more importantly I've had HUGE love and support from my friends and family. No matter what the idea, or how crazy it was, everyone seemed to belive in me. I began to notice this quiet faith that seemed to circle around me, and I came to realize that it could my biggest asset.
My beautiful and brilliant twin sister was always the smart one. So I had to find another skill. I was incredibly blessed with a heritage of sewing talent - My Great Grandmother crafted wardrobes for herself, and her family out of necessity. She taught my Grandmother her trade. My Grandmother crafted wardrobes for HER family out of necessity. She taught my Mother her trade. I spent my early years outfitting my Barbie, and grew up with a very valueable skill, credited to my Mother. I took advantage of this knowledge as a hobby throughout high school. Then after high school, my dear Brother encouraged me to enroll in Western Michigan Universities Textile and Apparel program. That was a pivotal set of circumstances, because at age 17, I had no idea what I was going to make of myself. Luckily, I had the above mentioned circle of quiet faith, in this instance my dear Brother.
The Fashion Design program at Western Michigan led me to a study abroad program in London, UK. Another pivotal moment. I won't bore you with the details, except to say that I met more people there that became part of my circle of quiet faith. Professors and friends that seemed to know what I could be, before I did.
The part I can take credit for is this: I knew I wanted to offer women of all circumstances an avenue to express their personal style. This evolved into Envieve. A fashion resource for women of varying sizes, shapes and personalities. Giving them the opportunity to outfit themselves in clothing that fits their body and their soul. At the risk of being cheesy, that's what we are doing at Envieve. Making women comfortable by providing a basic need that considers their budget, their personal style, and their shape.
Coupled with a focus on staying true to my small-town mantra, I chose to begin my venture here in South Bend, IN. Where I could impact real women, and hopefully make a tiny difference. Communities like this one are often overlooked in the fashion world. While the limited shopping venues are playing in my favor, my main goal is to cater to clients who have the biggest need. The perfect party dress, wedding gown, or even a great fitting suit for the working woman. We offer customized solutions for any occasion - or just for everyday. Quality, detail, style and fit. For Everyone.
Why Envieve?
This name was inspired by one of God's great creatures, perhaps the greatest... my mentor and Grandmother, Genevieve. A blinding light of love and wisdom. Every day I will strive, and likely, fail gracefully, to emulate her kindness and compassion. Love you always!