Q&A WITH JERAHMIE

What’s the best part of being a Fashion Designer?

Working as a Fashion Designer and the opportunity to live in this colourful world of art is a blessing in itself. But one of the most rewarding parts of my job is seeing my brides happy, beautiful and confident wearing my piece, and being part of their special season that can last a lifetime is very fullfilling! Most of my clients even come back to me after their wedding just to give me gifts and to say thank you. Isn’t that rewarding? x

Aside from being a fashion designer, what else do you do?

I am a Sunday School teacher. I teach kids and toddlers at our Church. You cannot really find me at my bridal showroom, sewing studio/atelier every Sunday, ever.

How was like growing up in the Philippines and eventually migrating here in New Zealand?

Growing up in the Philippines? Where do I even begin to describe it? It’s the sweetest part of my life! I had the opportunity to live and grew up in different parts of the Philippines as my dad is a Pastor. New city or province every year. It’s the best thing ever. We migrated here in New Zealand almost a decade ago, with hardly anything — just a suitcase. Now, I have more than a suitcase — I build relationships, friendships, and a business. I am very blessed to be here in New Zealand, my second home.

Do you have a hobby?

I crochet occassionally. I love designing amigurumi.

What inspire you the most when creating a bridal design?

I got this question a lot. But for me, It’s not actually just about an inspiration, but passion. When you’re passionate about what you’re doing, inspiration comes out naturally.

Who is your role model?

I want to answer, my parents. But I will say, it’s my 6 year-old niece. Surprisingly, just being herself, she’s been teaching me so much about life in the most innocent and sweetest form.

5-10 years from now, how do you see yourself?

Career wise, I want to continue doing what I’m doing and eventually be an international bridal designer brand.

In my personal life, I dream of becoming a wife and a mum. A fashionable mum.

If there is one advice you can give to a bride, what is it?

Be yourself and don’t be too overwhelmed by the amount of great bridal photos from Pinterest, Instagram and other social media platform. Majority of them are edited! The most beautiful dress for you is something that is made just for you.

Do you have a pet?

Yes. I do have a cat, her name is Cotton. She never liked all the stuffs we buy for her. She loves the packaging though. Haha.

Your favourite place to visit

My grandma’s house! Of course, nothing beats the smell of my lola’s bedsheets and her fabric conditioner! It’s always a trip down memory lane whenever I visit my grandma’s house. It grounded me. She even kept all my threads and my first ever fashion rulers that I used when I was in fashion school a decade ago. My grandma’s home never fail to remind me where I came from and how much I grew not just a fashion designer but as a person.

What do you do during your day-off?

I stay in bed all day and stare at the ceiling. Haha. But mostly, I love watching kdrama!

Do you have any advice for aspiring or young fashion designers?

Just do it. I never encounter a fashion designer who regret their career decision. It’s definitely not an easy career, and sometimes, it can be overwhelming, daunting, and scary to put yourself out there, but it’s definitely worth it!

When you were a little, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I think, people expect me to answer “to be a fashion designer!” But honestly, growing up, I didn’t have that one specific dream. I always been into arts and was very creative as a kid, but I never really knew I can make a living out of my gifted skills and talents! Being a fashion designer still shocks me. Haha.

Did you plan on becoming a Fashion Designer?

No, not in my wildest dream. I actually even took up Political Science during college and later discovered it is not for me. I became a Fashion Designer mainly because I love sewing.

What is your greatest regret in life?

I don’t have — it’s too heavy to cary. :)

If you’re going to describe your life in one word, what will it be?

Blessed!