With over 3 years of experience in the retail industry, I am highly interested in pursuing a position in visual merchandising or sales for a fashion brand. I am a team player that brings creativity, adaptability, and motivation to the table. I thrive individually as well as surrounded by my peers.
Recent Honors Design & Merchandising grad from Drexel University
ALLIE GRESS
LAGOS CO-OP
During my 6-month Co-Op at LAGOS, a luxury fine jewelry company, I presented monthly competitor reports to key stakeholders, including the CEO, CMO, and CDO. I applied the visual merchandising pyramid strategy to showcase products at PR events, ensuring a captivating brand presentation. I actively participated in market week appointments, assisted in the Spring '23 scale photoshoot, and contributed to a successful fashion show in partnership with Max Mara. This experience honed my skills in strategic marketing, visual merchandising, and creative ideation, aligning them seamlessly with the brand's objectives. Overall, the Co-Op was a transformative journey that deepened my expertise and contributed to the brand's success.
SCHOLARSHIPS
My achievements extend beyond the classroom, where I was recognized as a top recipient for the NRF Foundation University Challenge and a top 10 Semi-finalist for the NRF Foundation Next Generation Scholarship 2024. Through these experiences, I have seamlessly translated classroom insights into tangible results, leveraging my strategic thinking and creative problem-solving skills. The challenges posed by these prestigious scholarships have not only fueled my personal growth but have also significantly contributed to my professional development. As a result, I bring a unique blend of academic excellence and practical application to any endeavor, ensuring a holistic and impactful approach to problem-solving in the dynamic world of marketing and fashion.
DESIGN THINKING
My approach to problem-solving is deeply rooted in design thinking, where I thrive in the intricate process of mapping and iteration to arrive at innovative solutions. Whether it's untangling complex challenges or crafting creative strategies, I embrace a systematic and empathetic approach. This methodology not only allows me to explore diverse perspectives but also facilitates the synthesis of ideas, guiding me towards well-rounded and effective conclusions. Through the application of design thinking, I consistently deliver solutions that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also strategically sound, embodying a holistic understanding of both form and function.
MARKETING / MERCHANDISING
My enthusiasm for marketing and visual merchandising is evident in my high-level classwork, where I consistently bring a passion for creativity and strategic thinking. Through dynamic projects and coursework, I've honed my skills in market analysis, promotional strategy, and visual presentation. My commitment to staying ahead of industry trends and consumer behavior ensures that my work is not only innovative but also deeply grounded in market insights. This coursework has not only strengthened my foundation in marketing and merchandising but has also fueled my aspiration to pursue a career where I can continue to blend creativity with strategic impact.
SENIOR THESIS
My senior thesis, titled "Futuristic Visual Merchandising: A Visual Installation at DFTI Boutique," envisions an innovative approach to transform the Philadelphia retail scene. In collaboration with a local brand, my goal is to curate a groundbreaking pop-up experience on March 2nd, 2024, at DFTI Boutique. The focus extends beyond the brand's loyal customer base, aiming to captivate and convert newcomers into lifelong patrons. By infusing the installation with the vibrant energy of Philadelphia's community, I intend to create an immersive experience that not only upholds the brand's image but also resonates with the diverse spirit of the city. This project represents my commitment to pushing boundaries in visual merchandising and forging lasting connections between brands and the dynamic community.
