We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Gerri L. Beatty. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Gerri L. below.

Gerri, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

I’ve known since age four that I wanted to become a fashion designer. Growing up, my parents had all of my dresses custom made for special occasions. Experiencing the crafting and fitting process firsthand, I was immediately intrigued. One of my favorite hobbies became collecting fashion magazines. I spent countless hours pouring over silhouettes, fabrics and details. Everywhere I went, I had my sack of books and magazines to study. I began making beaded jewelry at four, and eventually started making clothes for my dolls. My parents supported my interests by taking me to expos, fashion shows, and fabric stores, so that I could explore the craft. I’m a self- taught designer, never having taken a single sewing course. Studying fashion images, and experimenting with my own ideas was the way I learned to design and sew.

Gerri, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My brand, Gerri L. Beatty Collection offers both ready-to-wear and custom womenswear, including accessories. My designs are inspired by eras past, specifically the 1920s to the 1950s. Each piece reflects my brands feminine, ladylike design aesthetic. The use of lace, bright colors and florals are prevalent in my designs.

My personal Biography:

Gerri L. Beatty, a native of Washington, D.C. began her lifelong love of fashion after designing a dress for herself at age four. Gerri began designing professional during her freshman year of college, 2006. She is a self- taught designer. Gerri earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from Hampton University in 2010. She has been recognized for her design talent through the honor of receiving the Hampton University Eunice W. Johnson Award for Creative Achievement in February 2010. Gerri has designed for notable figures including Emmy- award winning chef Pati Jinich, as well as the Washington Commanders cheerleading team. Her work can be seen in various magazines, including Vogue, Forbes, Essence, Capitol File, and Munaluchi Bridal. Other publications where Gerri’s work has been featured include The Washington Post, The Pittsburgh Post Gazette, and on “Good Morning America”.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

A time that I had to pivot my business was at the start of the covid pandemic. In early March 2020, I was in the middle of prom season. I had 42 prom gown orders to fulfill. When the shutdown happened, I had to put all orders on hold since events were canceled or rescheduled. I couldn’t meet with clients for fittings due to quarantine mandates. Suddenly, there was a huge demand for masks. I used all of the cotton cloth supplies I had in my studio to begin producing masks. I made around 2,000 masks, which kept my business afloat for a year. Transitioning to mask- making allowed me to expand my Etsy shop. Moving to online only orders worked out, as I couldn’t meet with my in- person clientele. Since then, I have been able to keep up momentum with running my Etsy shop in tandem with my made- to- measure sector of the brand.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being a creative is seeing my designs come to life. It’s deeply fulfilling to go from idea, to sketch, to wearable garment. The craftsmanship involved in fashion design takes patience and skill, so it’s a bit surreal, in the best possible way to see the final piece come to life.

Contact Info:

• Website: WWW.GERRILBEATTY.COM
• Instagram: @GERRIBEATTYFASHIONDESIGNER
• Facebook: GERRI BEATTY