IT WAS IN THE STARS- or How I Happen to be Making Hats
Hats by Leko ran an ad for hat making classes in a Southern California newspaper. Am thinking it was about 1993 or ' 94, before we were using the internet to keep in touch. She was relatively new in the hat supply business and I had just graduated from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising and was completing my degree in fashion design and textiles at Cal State LA. The stars aligned and with Sandra Leko's help I began making hats.
In late 1995 we moved to Sisters, Oregon, and I continued my work; returning to California for-over-the-top instruction with Yvonne Lewis in LA.
Also during that period I was fortunate to have classes in color and shape analysis from Ethel Harms, Image Consultant in Portland, Oregon. Ethel gave me the knowledge I needed to help women find their most flattering look.
My hats have been sold in fine boutiques in Oregon, California, and Washington . I sold from my home studio and through fine shows and craft fairs throughout the Pacific northwest, northern California and northern Nevada until 2010 when family responsibilities required my full attention.
Now with the increased popularity of online shopping and improvement at home, I was able to open my Etsy shop. I am the proprietor, designer, marketing expert, customer service representative, photographer and shipper. My home in Sparks, Nevada, is my studio.
I describe my work as classic millinery. I use classic shapes and classic techniques. My embellishments tend to be either vintage or vintage in style,
Many hats are one of a kind, but I am always happy to discuss what you would like to have - it can probably be done. Please email me with requests or questions. Nothing makes me happier that making a beautiful hat.
I do accept returns on my hats because sometimes it's just not the right hat for you. You will be responsible for return shipping unless there is a problem with the hat that I have overlooked. I will not accept returns on hats that have obviously been worn or smell of strong perfume or smoke. The hat will be returned to you and no refund will be made.
Hat wearers are amazing people. They exude confidence and a sense of self that others admire and wish they could emulate. For that reason my motto is:
"Under Every Great Hat is a Fabulous Woman."
Happy shopping.
Marilyn
