Adventures with Atelier
Arlene Aranzamendez has traversed quite an adventurous career path. She comes from a long line of entrepreneurs, including her grandmother and mother. But, before striking out on her own, she first worked at Insignia Design Associated in 1995, and five years later, moved on on to Cincinnati-based international design agency, LPK.
“In 2004, I founded my award-winning web design and branding company, Aranzamendez Design,” she explains. “The company focused on helping small- and medium-sized businesses successfully launch their brands, and gave ‘facelifts’ to 100-plus-year brands. It’s interesting, because although I haven’t always worked in fashion, I have worked in design, just in a different capacity.”
Last year, she launched Adorn USA, which features a custom-made, high-end, but mid-priced jewelry line. Then, she felt the calling to open a brick-and-mortar shop.
Aranzamendez says that, in many ways, opening her new boutique in Madeira, Atelier by Adorn USA, is yet another extension of her creativity.
“The product line includes artisanal, handcrafted works, including pieces from six select designers, as well as my personal line, Konstantin, which exhibited in a Los Angeles showroom,” Aranzamendez says. “I focused on distribution through regional boutiques and trade shows.”
Atelier by Adorn USA is Aranzamendez’s first physical location, which opened in June, and she hopes it helps to connect with her customers on a whole new level. “While online shopping is growing, it helps to touch and feel the product and even try it on right there in the space so customers really get a full shopping experience,” Aranzamendez says. “Plus, I believe my store is yet another important step on my growing journey in the fashion world.”
What makes Atelier by Adorn USA unique is that while most boutiques feature jewelry and handbags as fashion accessories that complement attire, every piece in her store is designed to make a statement as a stand-alone piece. “In fact, we even select clothing with this intention in mind,” she explains. “Our pieces are truly an expression of art.”
Speaking of art, Atelier by Adorn USA designs will rock the runway as the featured designer at Cincy Chic’s Wearable Art Fashion Show, which will be held July 25 at the 5th & Main PNC space downtown. “I’m really looking forward to the event,” Aranzamendez says. “It’s a good way to network and preview a taste of the newest and upcoming trends!”
Tickets to the event are $10 and all proceeds benefit The Arts Alliance, a locally-based non-profit organization that provides arts programming across the Tri-State. Tickets include complimentary refreshments, swag bag, spectacular silent action, fun photo booth and – of course – the runway fashion show featuring Atelier by Adorn USA designs. Click here to get your tickets.
Atelier by Adorn USA is located at 7892 Camargo Road in Madeira. To learn more about the boutique, visit www.ateliercincinnati.com and subscribe to their newsletter for the latest updates on trends and pieces. You can also like them on info@adornusa.com.
